I’ve definitely felt it.

But building my small business has taught me something important. You don’t earn respect by trying to look older or pretending you know everything. You earn it by being prepared, doing what you say you’re going to do and being willing to learn.

Your age can actually be an advantage.

You’re growing up in a completely different environment to previous generations. You understand the social media platforms your customers are using. You know what your friends are wearing, watching and talking about. You’re seeing trends happen in real time.

That perspective has value.

Of course, being young doesn’t mean you automatically know everything. I’ve had to learn that too. There are people with more experience than me, and instead of seeing that as a threat, I see it as an opportunity.

Ask them questions. Listen to their advice. Learn from their mistakes. At the same time, don’t let someone’s experience convince you that your ideas aren’t worth hearing.

There’s a difference between being confident and thinking you know everything. Confidence is walking into the room knowing you still have things to learn, but also knowing you have something to contribute.

That’s the mindset I try to carry with me.

Whether you’re starting a business, applying for your first job or sitting in a room surrounded by people older than you, remember that you don’t need to prove that you’re the smartest person there.

Just be prepared. Be curious. Be professional. And most importantly, be yourself.

You might be young, but that doesn’t mean your ambition has to be.

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