i've grown up believing

that i'm only good enough

as long as i fit into your mold;

i'm on the right path

as long as i follow your instructions;

i'm succeeding

as long as i meet your expectations.

but i've not checked

most of your boxes,

and i never will.

because i am my own person

and will no longer allow myself

to determine my self worth

on whether i am meeting standards

that were not set by me.

- your standards, not mine