‘Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you’re doing, you’ll be successful’ - Albert Schweitzer
Alipa I Sangtam
In today’s rapid changing world where pressure fills our society numerous young people are entering into careers which are shaped by society’s expectations rather than relying on their own potential. Starting from a very young age we’re always told which careers are safe, secure, prestigious or even successful, often leaving behind the question that matter most. What am I really good at and do I really enjoy doing what i do? Choosing a career should not be about fitting someone else’s shoe rather it should be about discovering your own strength and building your own path that brings out the best in you. This isn’t just about finding jobs, it’s about creating a fulfilling future that will reflect your true potential.
Key facts to substantiate your career
1. Discover Yourself: About eight billion people are living in this world ,however every person is wired differently some are excellent in numbers and logics, others are good in creativity and communication. Self awareness should be the top priority towards building a career that fits you. Ask yourself or seek help from your mentors, what you’re really good at. There’s no hard and fast rule that you need to have all the answers at once. But learning about yourself through personal experiences, assessments or even talking to mentor will be the key to make a right career choice.
2. Say no to society checklist: In our society success is defined narrowly, shadowed by careers like Doctors, Engineers, or cracking NPSC exam, etc. However, we need to keep in mind that this are respectable jobs yet not meant for everyone. Running after a career just because your parents or family members expect something from you without knowing your capability can lead to regret, stress, depression and often end in suicide. The truth is, success is not one size fits all. Take up a career that suits your abilities and personality so that it will allow you to shine brighter than the one that doesn’t. When you break force from outside presence, you open the door to a life that’s both successful and satisfying. Learning to say NO at the right time and right place is not an act of coward but an act of courage.
3. Balance Passion with Practicality: There’s nothing wrong to follow your passion but it’s even more better to follow your potential. That means, identifying your strength and match them to real world opportunities. The fundamental concept is not to dream blindly, but to dream with right direction with purpose. The best investment in the world is investing in oneself. With full focus and persistence you can turn your abilities into a powerful career.
4. Gradual growth with progress: Don’t worry if your first step isn’t perfect or up to your expectations, your career will grow and it will progress if you push yourself daily. What matters is that your foundation should built according to your capacity. There’s a famous proverbs which says “How do you eat an elephant; One bite at a time”. Always strive for progress over perfection. Outstanding results are born from small and consistent progress everyday. The key is to never stop growing.
5. See the bigger picture: Look around the world and you’ll find numerous examples of people who ditched society’s path and followed their own dreams and aspirations and became successful. People like Rajkumar Hirani, a recipient of several accolades including four National Film Awards and eleven Filmfare Awards. His parents wanted him to be an engineer, Hirani eventually pursued a career in filmmaking, starting with film editing. “When you want something, all the universe conspire in helping you to achieve it”. PAULO COELHO
Building a career that matches your potential means stepping beyond expectations and authenticity. It is not always the easiest route but it’s not a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor. Your career should reflect who you are, not what other want you to be. Give time to yourself and discover your potential, embrace what makes you unique, and design a future that feels right for you. Because you’re not just choosing a job you’re choosing life.
