Ah, the good old societal pressure to always be in competition, right? I remember feeling that weight for the first time in school days. Back then, we were all uniform-wearing soldiers in the battle of grades, racing to be the best.
Luckily, during my high school years, my father only cared about my grades in math and physics. I remember dragging those heavy books with me on all my vacations. Painting up a storm and doing gymnastic flips, reading books outside school curriculum and writing poems were my escapes.
Then came the big leap into university life. Suddenly, the weight of grades was like a spotlight, and not just any spotlight, but one that could make or break my future career and job prospects. Talk about nerve-wracking!
I was happy to finish third (out of 165 students) and get the job I wanted. My father, not so much. He had hoped I would finish second or even first – but I got distracted by a boy in my last year and messed up my grades.
Here’s the truth: life is not about the rat race. We are all unique puzzle pieces, fitting together in funny ways. Our vibes, our ways of connecting – all different strokes for different folks. So when we come together, it’s like a crazy cool blend of flavors, no competition necessary.
So next time someone throws that whole competition pressure your way, just remember: we’re all rockstars in our own way, and there’s no need to fight for the spotlight or try to be like someone else.
The only competition you need to be in is the one with yourself. The one that leads you to finding your authentic self.