Never settle just because you’re scared of looking too ambitious. In New York, trying is cool. Discipline is cool. Showing up for yourself, even when no one’s clapping, is very cool. Don’t downplay your work to make other people comfortable. Don’t confuse false humility with depth. And don’t let anyone tell you that caring too much is a weakness. This city will try to rush you, humble you, and test your confidence. But it will also reward you for believing in your own potential before anyone else did. Success isn’t cringe. Dreaming out loud isn’t embarrassing. As long as you’re learning — you’re not failing. Let this be your sign to stop shrinking. You’re in NYC. Act like it.