Between your appearance viewed through phone camera filters and your natural reflection in a mirror, which one looks better? Certainly, the one on the phone. But isn't the true, authentic version the one in the mirror? Similarly, every human being has an authentic reality, their habits, genetics, and temperament.

Some people forget or hide who they truly are while dreaming of who they want to become. This is like using a GPS to say where you want to go without revealing your current location. If you don't know where you are, you can't go anywhere. Therefore, no matter what your dreams are or which path you take, it is vital to accept your current situation exactly as it is.

Admittedly, accepting reality is harder in practice than in words. This is part of human nature. Our subconscious often maintains a certain "ideal image" to preserve self-esteem, but sometimes that image drifts far from the truth. Furthermore, today's social media has become a barrier to self-acceptance. Constant comparisons, trying to balance completely different lifestyles on the same scale, and hiding flaws while only showcasing highlights, these all distance us from reality.

One of the worst habits is comparing yourself to others. If a peer is successful, we think, "Others are succeeding, but look at me." If someone younger starts their own business, we think, "They are so capable at a young age; back when I was their age..." If someone older is wealthy, we wonder, "Will I be that rich when I reach that age?" We compare ourselves in countless ways.

The most important thing we forget is that they are them, and you are you, our lives are completely different. If someone is further ahead, it might be because they were on a plane while you were walking. If others try to compare you, remind them (and yourself) of this. Knowing your own situation and accepting it as it is, brings peace of mind and serves as the starting point for progress. When others point out your flaws, if you have already accepted them yourself, you will experience much less unnecessary mental distress.

Accepting reality includes both the good and the bad. How much family support do you have, or are you the one providing support? What are your skills, and what subjects do you have absolutely no interest in? You need to know and accept all of these before you can figure out your next steps. As in the earlier example, only when you know your exact location and your means of transport can you determine how long it will take and which route to follow.

People often have misconceptions about progress and success. A person's progress is not about becoming someone else; it is about moving from their current state to a better version of themselves. To use a superhero analogy: Peter Parker progressing to become Spider-Man is growth; he doesn't need to become a billionaire (like Iron Man) to be considered successful.

I hope this gives you some inspiration on why and how you should accept reality as it is. May you walk toward a better life according to your own circumstances, without the need for masks or pretension.