Rohan stopped walking, turning to face Ajay directly. He could see the uncertainty etched across the young athlete's face, the flicker of self-doubt in his eyes—a look Rohan had seen in countless athletes over the years, including himself. This was more than just nerves. Ajay, despite all his talent and hard work, was wrestling with the weight of expectation, both external and internal.
"Ajay," Rohan began, his voice calm but firm, "what you're feeling is normal. Every athlete—no matter how experienced—feels fear before a big competition. The difference between those who succeed and those who don't is how they handle that fear."
Ajay shifted on his feet, his gaze dropping to the ground. "But what if I fail? What if… what if I can't live up to everyone's expectations?"
