“I have to plan for my future, my job, I won’t have time”, “I just finished my undergrad exams, now I’m going to plan for my masters and job-interview questions.” Can you make any sense from these statements?
Yes, this is how the current generation has become. People only think about their future all the time, never rejoicing the present. When time is near, then I understand one would want to prepare, but there are some school-goings kids who are already planning out their careers. It’s great to have a plan, but seriously, it’s okay even if you don’t. You’ll figure it out. Everything doesn’t have to go as per your plan, some things won’t go as what you wanted them to.
There is a lot of competition and pressure in the world, but that doesn’t mean you forget how to live life in the process. I say do not engage in the competition. I know it’s easier said, but what is more important: your mental sanity and happiness or the chaotic unhealthy environment created by insane competition? You, of course, care about your mental sanity, right?
I’m not saying don’t prepare for that entrance exam or indulge in a competition, but keep it healthy. You try your best, but there’s a limit to everything and only certain people have extraordinary potential in them. For instance, when it comes to DU cut-off lists, IAS exams or any other competitive exam, just give your best foot forward.
If you don’t succeed, maybe try again if you can or else, you’ll know that maybe it was not meant for you. You will be able to just move on with life, and maybe, another door soon opens something better for you. But remember one thing: even if you decide to get into the ‘rat race’, don’t lose yourself or others in the process. Don’t cut yourself from the rest of the world or else you’ll just end up being lonely and a strange sense of emptiness will cast upon you.
I’m sure you’d not want that to happen. One would not want to have regrets later in life, but if you have given your best shot, at least you’ll know that you tried. Life is beautiful, every face of life should be experienced — the love, friendships, inexplicable experiences are all something that one should never let go off, but make a part of life.
Sure, dreams are important to fulfil you g0als, so one should go for it. But do not indulge too deeply so that you’re not disappointed later if you don’t make it happen.
To conclude, you all must have heard this quote: “A flower does not think of competing to the flower next to it, it just blooms.” Just follow this quote and your stress will lessen because the best part is that you will begin to focus on what you’ve learnt from the experience rather than ranks or marks (which won’t even matter later on)!