I have also been a flight instructor. I have been around the world and back. That's just my opinion, of course. I have always known that comprehending difficult material required me to spend twice the amount of time in the books to achieve the same goal as others. I've grown to accept that.
Determination is an incredible goal achiever.
If you were to see me on the street, I look pretty ordinary. That is the one thing I am not and you should never assume of anyone you meet. None of us are ordinary. Each and every one of you is an exceptional success story. Don't let anyone steer you in the wrong, unhealthy, negative direction.