Although many mainstream careers offer ‘safety and security’ (albeit debatable), the platform for personal and professional growth is quite often neglected especially for those working in a corporate environment. The new generation of professionals should take inspiration from their surroundings, trust themselves and pursue what they love. It is the option that scares you the most that will teach you and enable you to grow.
Take ‘Facebook’ for example. If Mark Zuckerberg had not taken a risk by trying to connect the world, we would still be living during the days where email is our fastest method of communication worldwide. Perhaps someone else may have had the same idea, but it was Mark who took a chance, believed in his dream and revolutionalised the way the world communicates.
For a company as prosperous as Google to keep ‘nap pods’ in their Silicon Valley office is evidence in itself that the new trend is to make life easy and enjoyable… even in the workplace. It is no longer a norm to simply start your career by working at a 9-5. The new norm, the new 9-5, has become to work for something you love and something that will bring you happiness in countless forms, not just monetary.
Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist and poet says it best: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail“. It is irrefutable that there may be repercussions from taking bold actions, but ultimately you would not have regretted trying and following your heart. It is easy to take a chance with external forces but, for most people, the most challenging test is to bet on yourself and have faith in your own abilities.
Educators, family members and friends should all be a source of positivity and enabling. Whether a student’s dream is to become a surgeon or the founder of a start-up, they should not be hindered or pointed in any other direction. They should seek to get support from someone who can provide the right guidance. We tend to thrive when we are pursuing our passions with force.
As humans, when we love something, our interest in it increases over time and thus our desire to advance the said subject is ever-present. Similarly, in the workplace, when we love our job, our natural instinct will be to work hard, progress in the field and be rewarded for this. These results range from monetary benefits, increased ambition or inner fulfilment – something that is what we all ultimately strive towards.
Studies show that low confidence and self-esteem levels root as early as nursery, where children with lower academic performances have correlating issues regarding their desire to learn, ability to focus and willingness to take risks. Education is more than just learning mathematics, writing history essays and carrying out science experiments, but also the nucleus from which children gain confidence in their abilities, potential and most importantly, in themselves. It is undeniable that investing in education can open up countless doors for the future. It is from completing their education that children are able to start the next stage of life, having realised their individual interests and now, further their personal growth.
Education is an ongoing process and all experts in their field began as complete amateurs. This example of personal and academic transformation is a clear sign that the power of achievement is in one’s perseverance and hard work; not necessarily natural ability. After numerous years of being graded, a student can have the opportunity to work in a field of their choice. This can be the most exciting and satisfying part of their lives as they embark on a new career. Yet, we see more and more students chasing traditional roles due to the safety net that they are offered.
We should encourage the next generation to be surrounded by a positive environment which will give them the confidence to flourish and have a strong foundation, both environmental and educational. It is vital to appreciate every child’s differences, their different interests, personalities and goals too.
Having said that, it is crucial for the next generation to believe in their abilities, take risks and utilise the resources education has to offer. Whether it is that sports field where they can practice their favourite sport, probe their teachers with insightful questions, thrive on the scholastic competition or even simply read books and explore the school’s library.
Education is the first stepping stone towards their future. Ultimately, everyone has a unique ‘gift’ – it may be to become an artist, an entrepreneur or a comedian. It is upon us to discover our talents and utilise this to our advantage instead of simply conforming to society’s expectations of the ‘norm’. Many dreams are left undiscovered due to lack of belief and fear of deviating from what is deemed as ‘normal’.
By Zahra, private tutor in London. Do you or your child have a unique gift or talent? Discover how we can help enhance your learning experience and achieve your potential. Contact Us today!