Monday column: The balloon of dreams

Life is certainly a journey to the unknown from the day you are born and well into your old age no matter in what social class you are born in.

It could be a spiritual journey with a theme of freedom and despair at the same time. It can also be full of optimism and hopes. As we go on living, we come across invaluable insights into our subconscious that may open up the doors for us or see them get shut along the way.

We also get to know that our lives are never predictable, no matter how carefully we plan it. We get all our dreams in an ambitious balloon that may float anywhere into the horizon. We know that the physical balloon is in the mercy of the wind but the mental one may well get lost in the emotional turmoil.

But if we pay attention to what is important to us then no wind is strong enough to blow it away out of its intended path. For example, young people are ambitious and are looking to achieve something big ten years from now. They see the future and start to chart it carefully to get the right result. But the truth is, as older people would tell them, they are many unseen obstacles on the way.

But those who shy away from trying never get the head start. Young people should be encouraged to fly that balloon of their dreams as soon as possible. If there is no start then there will be no getting there. Common sense always prevail. There must always be a target somewhere in the distant horizon to aim for. What many young people do not realize is that the start is the hardest. Once you are on your way, it is much easier to continue.

Embracing challenges for personal growth is always a good start for young people. Challenges can range from financial hardship, career problems or even health issues. But what young people need to know is that they must learn to adapt to move forward. They also need to know that struggles lead to experience and learning. We all cannot have a smooth path on our way to success.

But what is success? Young people need to be careful about it.  It is not about making a lot of money or even getting the top executive job. It is about being comfortable and making enough to make you happy. What they do not know, having a bag of cash causes an indomitable stress.  In the same explanation, getting the top job has its pressure and anxieties.

So can we say that success is never measured by monetary values or the office positions? As a young person, you need to come to your own conclusion. You are free to determine your future. It is safe to say, your balloon of dreams should carry achievable goals. It is all about making smaller but manageable steps as you move forward.

And if you can achieve that, then you are on your way to success without stressing yourself with unachievable targets. Once you get there, you can pat yourself on the shoulder for the good work. One day, it will be a legacy to your children to follow your footsteps.