My voice often comes across as a childish, scared squeak,

My overall first impression could do with a tweak,

In social situations I get nervous and freak,

So much so that I come across as mild and meek.

I get tongue tied and talk too fast,

I maintain eye contact but my confidence quickly comes to pass,

The strong, powerful leader is a role in which I'd never be cast,

But I'm sure if I had higher self-esteem I'd have a blast.

Perhaps lessons of being striking and memorable I need to heed,

But my outer arrogance and sense of accomplishment don't need to be freed,

For I am a quietly confident underestimated breed,

Because I have the inner self-assurance and skill to know I'll succeed.