A True Test of Perseverance
I think one of the hardest challenges in life is to stay true to yourself. The task is a test of perseverance.
In my personal life, I have been challenged with staying true to myself on many occasions and levels. “Staying True to Myself” means that I keep my values, beliefs, idiosynchasies, morals, etc. and do not change them for anyone else.
The world constantly wants to change you. However, you know what you want and need to be strong enough not to be swayed.
“You were born an original. Don’t die a copy.” – John Mason
I have written about this before for my post “Am I Really Free to Be Me?” where I discuss people’s comments about me.
I have been told to change everything: personal appearance, school, sports, religious beliefs, relationships, career, etc. but I hold true to me. People can offer me their opinions and expertise but at the end of the day I hold the power to decide who I want to be.
One of the challenges, I have been facing recently, is regarding my career and what route to take.
I recently graduated with my Master’s degree and it has opened many doors for me (which is a wonderful thing). However, I found out that as soon as I graduated, the most common question from people was: “So, when are you getting your PhD?” instead of “What are you going to do now?”
You see the difference between the two sentences.
The first question (when are you getting your PhD?) is someone planning your path for you. The second (what are you going to do now?) is you planning your path for yourself.
In life, people are going to try to mould you or influence you in some way. You don’t have to follow their suggestions.
You are in charge of your own life. Deep down, only you know what makes happy. Find a job/career that you enjoy as you are going to be spending A LOT of time working on it.