Hey guys,

I graduated from a decent public high school in Connecticut and found that I was able to do well in terms of grades, extracurricular acheivement, and the like when compared to my peers.

However, one thing has truly bugged me (I will be attending college next year): I am not someone who naturally picks up math or science. While taking Calculus 2 in high school, I was in a class with the best kids in the school. Yet, I couldn't help but be envious when I had to study for hours, wishing the concepts would come easier to me, while geniuses around me effortlessly got As while intuitively understanding the concepts. The same applied to science.

The subjects that I did well in-art humanities, english, history, and social sciences-all were merely a product of my hard work. They enabled me to become ranked 3rd in my class of 300 students, but I never felt like I was a genius. My success was purely hard work.

I have never second-guessed myself or my ability, but over time, my confidence has gone down greatly. I am relegated to believing that I have no natural talent and that I simply can only work hard. To succeed in the world today, that's not enough:

The world loves and rewards those who are proficient in math and the sciences-in terms of money, these are the people that enjoy the most confident, satisfying lives.

How do I stop myself from comparing my own life with others and will I be able to be successful?

I really appreciate your responses.

-Mark