Life often seems effortless like getting into an elevator fitted with a smooth interface; just sit back and enjoy the ride to your destination. We hope for achievement and ultimate satisfaction as if the buttons labelled “success” or “fulfillment” are simply waiting for us to press them. What happens, though, when we enter a dysfunctional elevator? What if self-confidence, determination, will power, and effort is what gets you closer to your goal instead of ease?
The Dangerous Myth of Success
Modern life focuses heavily on seeking short cuts. We are flooded with success stories that conveniently skip out on the years of invisible efforts needed to their so-called miraculous overnight achievements. The over-saturated media condon nonlinear narratives romantizing success and makes it seem like everyone operates on an elevator that is in pristine condition while the rest of the world is forced to tackle a never ending staircase. The truth simply is, tangible success is an unachievable concept without tenacity.
Relieving the burden of validation
More often than not, the “lift” we are seeking is the validation, pats on the back, and even the ‘Oh-my-gosh how well’ comments by people with no meaning in our lives. The society, the family, and even the peers set a mark with regards to the age we should achieve certain milestones like graduating by 22, getting a dream job at 25, and marrying no later than 30. Life failing to follow this pseudo-sync script makes us feel stuck and disheartened. But, growth isn't bound by strings attached to a universal clock.
Some of the most challenging periods of our lives, are surprisingly most rewarding, in terms of transformational value.
