I am reaching my 20s now and compared to other kids my age, I am just a grain of sand in a desert. What is so special about them that I can’t do? Why can’t I be as successful as them? Why do my dreams seem so unreachable when they are already at their peak? Trust me, we are fine. 

Just like flowers, we bloom in our own time. Everyone has their own version of happiness. Some prefer settling in a suburb with a family and a stable job. Some like to travel and learn more about the world. Life is a journey and to go on that journey, we need a bit of courage and belief in ourselves to reach our destination. However, easier said than done. We are all human and we all have a fear of failure. Here is my general ‘guide’ that I, myself, am also working on.

It is okay to be cringe

Growing up as a Gen Z, you hear the word ‘cringe’ quite a lot. Whatever you do, there will always be a hater yapping about how cringe it is. However, embracing what brings you joy and expressing yourself authentically is far more important. Everyone has their own interests, passions and ways of self-expression. And if you are a proud hater, the only business you need to learn is your own. Please go find a hobby. Discouraging your friend should not be in your dictionary unless you are a pick-me.

Send the email 

Take risks. I don’t know about you but my social anxiety will stop me from wittewwawy living my life. Do you know how long before I finally applied for NEXUS? It took 3 friends, 2 parents, an older sister and a whole month to justify whether I have the ability to become a writer. So, send the application for the big job that you have dreamed of or that confession you wrote for the person you like. Just do it. You never know where it will take you, otherwise you get a free rejection therapy session anyway. 

Get some rest 

It is getting to the mid-term break for us students. I know a lot of my peers are struggling to complete their uni work on top of a part-time or full-time job to afford necessities nowadays, but destroying your body will mostly result in more bills being paid than getting you somewhere. And no, resting does not correlate with scrolling through your phone. Resting means you give your mind and body a break from the constant stimulation. It is when you just sit down and breathe. Going on a walk or making your favourite meal. Like the girls that bake, do something that will allow yourself to feel at ease. 

Spend time with your friends and family

Your inspirations may be closer to you than you think. Surrounding yourself with people who support you is the best thing you can do for yourself. Not only will they push you to become a better version of yourself, but you can also learn from their experience. I learnt a lot from my parents as they taught me how to talk, behave, and treat people the way I want to be treated. I learnt from my girlfriends their sentiments and the power of empowering other people. I learnt from my guy friends (disclaimer: not a lot – only 3) to admit to my true feelings and take courage. And most of these valuable lessons came from their simple stories. So, sit down with your friends and family today and maybe you will get a surprisingly useful life lesson and motivation for your journey.