I was a science student, until my 12th standard. I didn’t like physics, chemistry and biology at all. I hated to study. I only secured 49% marks in my 12th class. After my 12th, I decided to quit science field. I opted for BMS (Bachelor of Management Studies).

Accounting was a part of BMS syllabus. Being from science background, I didn’t know even the A of accounting. In the first semester, I secured only passing marks.

One day, I overheard the chat that my father was having with a relative.

Father - She just secured passing marks. I guess, she is struggling because this is a new field for her.

Uncle - She is not good with her studies, anyways. I don’t know why you have so high hopes on her.

Father - It’s my responsibility to push her to be the best, rest is up to her.

Uncle - In a year, you start looking for a guy for her. She will have a secured future.

I just wanted to barge in between the conversation and break that uncle’s face.

But this motivated me to prove to the world that I am better than what they think.

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After this day, I started studying madly. I started to meet teachers after the lecture. I would request them to explain me something that I didn’t understand in the class.

I had my cousin brother. He was pursuing his CA. I requested him to help me with Accounts. He use to help me during weekends. I use to practice madly.

Not only during exams but everyday, I studied late night. I ensure to give my 100% to get what I want. I started solving previous years’ question papers.

In my third semester, I topped my class in Accounting. That’s when I felt that “I am here to win the race”.

After this, there was no looking back. I even completed my MBA.

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Motivation should come from within to achieve something. It can be positive or negative reinforcement.

You need to develop an aggression within you to prove to the world that you are better than what they think.

In my case, it was negative reinforcement.

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Keep smiling…

-Priyanka Pillai