Being an ugly duckling, which takes its name from Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, refers to glowing up and developing into an attractive and successful person as opposed to what one has been before in their early days. But many people grew up with the idea of being an “ugly duckling” when they were kids and for some, it still follows them into their adult life.

As a result, even if this is a positive and celebrated transformation, many people can suffer lasting emotional effects. For example, ugly duckling syndrome can be a reason why so many of us can’t take compliments and see stares from people of the opposite sex as insults.

Moreover, those who have ever seen themselves as ugly ducklings can struggle to realize the power of their natural beauty. It may also be a good thing, since it helps to develop an inner strength that later carries us in our lives.

Most importantly, people who glowed up later in their lives are now much more likely to judge a book by what’s inside rather than its cover. Appreciation of inner beauty is a beautiful thing that enriches humans in profound ways.

In the end, looks come and go, and if you build your personality solely on your outer traits, you may well struggle to cope with your identity in the event that you lose them.