From an ‘ugly duckling’ to a beautiful swan

Interview with social media influencer Ali Mohamed

We have all heard about the story of The Ugly Duckling, right? Just because he was bigger and different from all the other ducklings, he was perceived as ‘ugly’. But despite having a very difficult childhood trying to fit in with the others, he eventually grew up into a beautiful swan. Is there something in your life that is making you feel insecure? Well, you don’t have to be!

What makes you different is what separates you from the crowd. True beauty is not having the perfect body figure, nice clothes etc. Rather is found in your uniqueness and your personality. Today Ali Mohamed, social media influencer and youtuber will share his story on how he was once perceived as ‘the ugly duckling’ and his journey of growing into a ‘beautiful swan’ he is today; both in and out.

“You are capable of anything in this World, no matter what it is. The only problem is, most of us aren't using our minds to envision what we want. Right now, formulate in your mind what you want; You have a goal? ….Good. Think about it. Envision it! Go for it! ”

1. How was your childhood like?

As a child, times were hard. We didn’t have the best of everything; but we had enough to just survive. My mother did the best she could to make sure I slept with food in my stomach. Although I sometimes envied other children, when I look back, I now realize that my mother gave us the best she could. I owe all my happiness as a child to my mother.

2. Have you ever been bullied?

It’s funny really; I’ve been a bully, and I’ve been a bullied as well. Indeed, Karma does exist! What goes around comes around; And I can assure you, being a victim isn’t very pleasant! I was a victim when I changed schools; things were extremely difficult for me back then. It was hard for me to find my place or even feel accepted. People used to make fun of me, pick on me, and sometimes, even a few teachers. But I told myself, if I quit and leave this school, then it’s a battle I’ve lost. So, I decided to stay strong and eventually graduated from the same high school.

3. What made you lose your confidence when you were a younger?

Growing up, I found it extremely difficult to fit in. No matter how hard I tried, I wasn’t able to be part of a clique. I started to pretend like I was someone I wasn’t in order to be accepted. That was when I started losing confidence and feeling that something was wrong with me. I began questioning why anyone would want to be my friend or hang out with me. The loneliness, and having nobody to share my feelings also triggered this loss of confidence.

4. What step did you take to over-come your low self-esteem?

I started to tell myself that I’m living for myself and I’m not here to please anyone. I am whom I am, and I’m not going to change myself for anyone! For me, it was a two-path journey. I decided to build myself a better image. So I lost a bunch of weight and started dressing myself better. I found an authentic style, groomed myself and made sure I always felt like the best dressed guy in the world.

5. What is your advice to people who are struggling with low self-esteem?

You are capable of anything in this World, no matter what it is. The only problem is, most of us aren't using our minds to envision what we want. Right now, formulate in your mind what you want; You have a goal? ….Good. Think about it. Envision it! Go for it!