Prototype → feedback → polish.

Life is full of practice rounds — the important part is that you keep trying and pay attention as you go. Prototype → feedback → polish.

Think of yourself like someone building a little invention: first you make a rough model (a prototype), then you show it to others and listen to what they say (feedback), and finally you smooth the rough edges and try again (polish). That same three-step idea works for feelings, schoolwork, friendships, and anything that feels hard. When something doesn’t go the way you wanted, it doesn’t mean you failed forever. It means you’re in the middle of a project called “you,” and projects get better when you test them, learn from them, and try again. As a mentor, I want to give you short, strong phrases you can use to steady yourself or to ask for help — phrases that are easy to remember and big enough to make a difference.

Here are small, powerful things to say when you need them: - “I’m trying — that counts.” - “Can you show me one thing I did well?” - “Tell me one idea I can try next time.” - “I can take one step right now.” - “This feeling will change — I will get through it.” - “It’s okay to ask for help.” - “I will rest and try again.” - “Thank you for telling me — I’ll use that.”

Practice saying these out loud, or write them on a card in your pocket. When you prototype — like trying a new way to study or talking to a friend about a problem — it’s brave to ask for feedback. Asking for feedback is simply asking for helpful ideas, not for someone to decide if you’re good or bad. You can guide the feedback by asking one specific question: “What is one thing I did well?” or “What’s one small change I could try?” That makes the feedback easier to hear and use. When someone gives you advice, listen for one thing that feels useful and try it next time; that’s the polish step. You don’t have to fix everything at once. Choose one small polish and practice it until it feels more natural.

Remember to be kind to yourself while you’re in the middle of the loop. Prototype moments can feel messy, feedback can sting, and polishing takes time. Say things like “I’m learning” and “I can breathe” when you feel overwhelmed. Celebrate tiny wins — finishing a homework page, saying hi to someone new, or taking five deep breaths when you feel stuck. Keep a notebook where you write one thing you learned and one thing you’ll try next; seeing your progress on paper helps you believe in it. You’re not alone in the workshop of life, and each attempt brings you closer to the person you want to be.