Mind Spark #30 - Remember the Underdog
- Shujian Zhang
- Oct 26
- 2 min read
Inspired by a line under Tiny Thoughts Section of Brain Food :
“When people feel like you deserve more than you have, they'll go out of their way to help you. But the minute you forget you were once the underdog, they'll root against you.”
It made me think about how success changes both how others see us and how we see ourselves. When we are still working our way up, people often want to help. They notice our determination, our hard work, and sometimes see their own struggles in us. But after we reach a certain point, things can feel different. The people who once supported us might pull away, especially if we seem to forget where we came from.
I think this happens because people don’t just connect with what we achieve; they connect with what we remember. When we stay humble, grateful, and open, we remind others (and ourselves) of that underdog spirit that makes us human.
To stay grounded, it is helpful to regularly reflect on our journey and recognize those who helped us along the way. This could be as simple as reaching out to thank mentors or colleagues who offered guidance or as humble as sharing your experiences with others still finding their way. Volunteering to mentor younger professionals or participating in events can also keep us connected to our beginnings. By actively maintaining these connections, we keep alive the spirit of humility and gratitude.
It’s a quiet reminder I keep coming back to:
No matter how far I go, I never lose sight of the path that got me here.
I grew up as a farm boy in a small village in China (previous post about my journey) and since then, I have come a long way. I went to college in China, built my career in the United States, earned my green card and citizenship, and have been working toward my own American dream. Throughout this journey, many people believed in me, supported me, and helped me find opportunities I never imagined.
That’s why, whenever I meet someone on a similar path, I always try to help. Sometimes I offer advice about education, green card applications, or career and personal growth. Other times, I mentor someone or just listen and share what I’ve learned. This is my way of giving back, a small effort to pass on the kindness that once helped me move forward.
Take a moment to think about your own journey. What experiences keep you grounded? Reflecting on how you maintain your connection to your roots can enrich your personal growth and inspire others along the way.
Comments