Overcoming Overthinking by AJ

Overcoming Overthinking by AJ - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

A moment when I discovered a new strength in myself came when I realized I was capable of taking action even when I did not feel fully prepared. For most of my life, I have been a careful and analytical thinker. While this helped me academically, it also caused me to overthink decisions and hesitate out of fear of making mistakes. I often believed that I needed to have everything planned perfectly before moving forward, which limited my growth.

That mindset began to change when I decided to start an online business selling home and lifestyle products. I did not have prior experience in entrepreneurship, and there were many unknowns. At first, the idea of managing finances, marketing, and customer service on my own was intimidating. However, instead of waiting until I felt completely confident, I chose to take the risk and learn as I went. Through that experience, I discovered a strength I did not know I had: the ability to adapt, problem-solve, and remain resilient when things did not go as planned.

There were moments when I made mistakes, lost money, or felt unsure about my decisions. Instead of allowing those setbacks to discourage me, I learned to view them as lessons. I became more comfortable making decisions under pressure and trusting my ability to adjust and improve. This experience helped me realize that growth often comes from action, not perfection.

That newfound confidence carried over into other areas of my life, including leadership opportunities and academics. Whether working with others during Alabama Boys State or balancing responsibilities in school and work, I became more decisive and willing to step forward when leadership was needed. Discovering this strength changed how I approach challenges today. I no longer avoid uncertainty; instead, I see it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve.