I'm thankful that I was able to show a better side of me in

Hear the voice of Ok Taec-yeon, who declared with humility: “I’m thankful that I was able to show a better side of me in acting, and I hope that you’ll continue to have high expectations for me.” These words, though gentle, are filled with the weight of self-reflection and aspiration. They reveal the eternal struggle of the artist—to improve, to grow, and to present to the world not a mask of perfection, but the unfolding of a truer and richer self. Gratitude here is not for applause alone, but for the chance to evolve, to reveal more deeply the human spirit through the craft of performance.

The ancients knew this same truth, though they spoke of it in their own ways. The Greek tragedians, Aeschylus and Sophocles, believed that acting was not mere entertainment, but a mirror held up to the soul of society. The performer was not only a vessel of words, but a bearer of truth, capable of stirring hearts, warning nations, and inspiring virtue. To show a “better side” of oneself upon the stage or screen, as Taec-yeon speaks of, is to strive toward this noble calling: to use the art of performance not for vanity, but for the revelation of wisdom and humanity.

Consider the journey of Sir Laurence Olivier, one of the greatest actors of the modern age. Early in his career, critics dismissed him as more style than substance, praising his voice and presence but doubting his depth. Yet Olivier worked relentlessly to refine his craft, to dig beneath the surface, until in time he became a master of both technique and soul. His story mirrors the meaning of Taec-yeon’s words: to be thankful for the chance to grow, and to hope that others will continue to expect more—so that the fire of improvement never dies.

The phrase “high expectations” carries both burden and blessing. It is weight, because it demands constant striving, a refusal to remain still. Yet it is also gift, for it means that others believe in one’s potential, that they see a horizon yet to be reached. The athlete, the scholar, the artist—all grow stronger when those around them call them to higher ground. Taec-yeon’s hope that his audience will expect more of him is not arrogance, but humility; it is the recognition that greatness is not a solitary climb, but a shared journey between artist and those who witness his work.

In his gratitude, Taec-yeon also teaches us the importance of self-awareness. He does not boast of perfection, but acknowledges that he has different “sides,” some better, some yet to be revealed. This honesty is rare in a world where many strive only to display what is polished and flawless. To admit imperfection, and yet to strive toward showing the better side, is an act of courage. It is the path of true growth—the recognition that greatness is not given, but built day by day, role by role, effort by effort.

The lesson here is timeless: be thankful for every chance to grow, and never shrink from the weight of expectation. Welcome it, for it sharpens your spirit. Like the blacksmith’s hammer upon the iron, expectation and challenge temper the soul into strength. If you are praised, let your heart be humble; if you are criticized, let your resolve be strengthened. For the one who is both grateful for progress and hungry for improvement will never stagnate, but will rise ever higher.

Practical wisdom follows: whatever your craft may be—acting, teaching, leading, creating—do not despise your early works, but see them as stepping-stones toward something greater. Be thankful for those who believe in you, and even more for those who demand better of you. Set your heart to always reveal a better side of yourself, not only for your own sake, but to inspire others who walk the path after you.

Thus, Taec-yeon’s words are not merely about a career in performance; they are about the eternal journey of the soul. “I am thankful to show a better side of me… and I hope you will keep high expectations.” This is the creed of every true seeker of excellence: gratitude for growth, honesty about imperfection, and the courage to be called to something greater. Live with this spirit, and your life itself will become a performance of truth, beauty, and ever-rising strength.