This was the message para-olympian Priya Cooper conveyed to Coodanup College students on July 27.
Despite winning gold medals for her swimming, Ms Cooper said it was a bronze medal in the 100m butterfly that made her feel successful.
"I was happy because I had worked so hard," she said.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWMs Cooper requires a wheelchair for mobility and shared her experience with overcoming adversity in everyday life.
She told students the only thing anyone could control was their attitude.
"You need to believe in yourself," she said.
Ms Cooper's visit was part of a Goals for Girls program.
The college was awarded a $5000 SGIO community grant for the engagement and employability skills program.
The crime prevention project will assist girls to help develop important life skills and equip them to make responsible and safe decisions.