Dig Deep and Give 110%: A Journey Toward Confidence by Josiah

Dig Deep and Give 110%: A Journey Toward Confidence by Josiah - May 2026 Scholarship Essay

A challenge I once found intimidating—but now feels not only manageable but foundational to who I am—is learning how to believe in myself. For a long time, self confidence felt like something other people possessed naturally, while I had to fight for every inch of it. The late Coach Susan Pusey played a defining role in changing that. She often reminded us that a person must “dig deep and give 110%,” a phrase that sounded simple at first but grew more meaningful as I matured. Coach Pusey pushed me and many others to recognize our worth, to confront our doubts, and to understand that believing in ourselves is not arrogance—it is a form of discipline.

Self confidence can be difficult to build, especially when the world constantly presents challenges that make us question our abilities. I know this feeling well. Early in my journey, I struggled with self acceptance and often felt unworthy, even when I was working hard. I doubted whether I belonged in certain spaces, whether academically, athletically, or socially. It took time, patience, and the support of others for me to understand that confidence is not something you wait for—it is something you practice.

Peer interactions helped me grow more comfortable with who I was, but it was Coach Pusey’s accountability that truly shifted my mindset. She refused to let me settle for less than my best, whether on the track or in the classroom. She expected excellence, not perfection, and she taught me that giving up on myself was never an option. Her belief in me became a model for how I could eventually believe in myself.

As I gained confidence, I realized that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room—it is about setting an example others can trust. I learned to lead by demonstrating consistency, resilience, and integrity. I continue to challenge myself academically (maintaining a 3.78 GPA), athletically, and in leadership roles, not because it is easy, but because I want others to see that perseverance is possible regardless of circumstance. When people see you refusing to give up, they begin to believe that they can endure too.

This realization shaped how I support others. When a teammate doubts their ability to step onto the field or a classmate loses motivation to tackle a difficult assignment, I encourage them to try. I remind them that the only true failure is refusing to start. Sometimes, a simple “I believe in you” is enough to help someone rise again. I have learned that encouragement does not need to be elaborate; it needs to be sincere and timely.

Listening has also become one of the most powerful tools I use to help others believe in themselves. Many people do not need advice—they need to be heard without judgment. Whether it is a friend, a younger student, a teammate, or a family member, I listen for understanding. I let them express their fears, frustrations, or doubts, and I reassure them that their dreams are valid and achievable. I remind them that good things can happen even when the path feels uncertain.

Another lesson I share with others is the importance of acknowledging small wins. Achievement does not always come in large, dramatic moments. Sometimes it looks like improving a grade, completing a challenging workout, or simply making it through a difficult day. I encourage people to celebrate progress of any degree because progress builds confidence. When individuals recognize their growth, they begin to understand that they are capable of more than they realized.

Most importantly, I remind others—and myself—that setbacks do not define us. Life is full of hurdles, but hurdles are all about altitude. Your attitude determines your altitude. This mindset has helped me reframe challenges as opportunities to rise rather than reasons to retreat. I encourage others to see themselves not as victims of circumstance but as individuals moving toward their dreams, even when the journey is difficult.

Reflecting on my own growth, I realize that believing in myself was not a single moment of transformation—it was a gradual process shaped by mentors, experiences, and personal reflection. Coach Pusey planted the seed, but I had to nurture it. I had to learn to trust my abilities, to silence my doubts, and to recognize my worth. Now, I choose to be the person who helps others do the same.

I have learned that confidence is not a gift; it is a responsibility. It requires effort, honesty, and resilience. It requires showing up even when you feel uncertain. It requires believing that you are capable of more than your fears suggest. And once you learn to believe in yourself, you gain the power to help others believe in themselves too.

Today, I no longer see self confidence as intimidating. I see it as a skill—one that I continue to strengthen and one that I intentionally share with others. I strive to be the kind of leader who lifts people up, the kind of teammate who encourages perseverance, and the kind of friend who listens with compassion. I choose to be the person who reminds others of their strength, just as Coach Pusey once reminded me of mine.

Believing in myself changed my life. Helping others believe in themselves is how I hope to change theirs.