Excelling at education has been one of the biggest societal pressures, especially in our Indian society. The society still tends to look down upon anyone who faces difficulty in grasping the academic pressure, anyone who chooses a career that does not go with the mainstream education, or anyone who has abandoned his/her stereotype job and persuaded something else. Comments like, "Photography kore aar kodin cholbe?" or "Ebar naach gaan chere ashol jinish ey mon dao." is still prevelant, even in the 21st century.
In this regard, I have a few reminders for all those who are suffering from mental pressure or lessening self-worth because of the lack of support that they get from the society:
- It is okay to choose an offbeat stream, if you love it. There are so many careers available today that does not need you to excel at your academics. Follow your passion and make sure you are in love with whatever career you choose.
- It is okay to ask for help. Counselling is a real thing, and you need not be ashamed to reach out.
- There is no shame in struggling in the so-called "easy subject". What seems easy to someone else may not seem the same to you.
- It is okay to drop out or change your major, if you feel like. Just make sure you think it through. Feel free to withdraw from the course that you do not feel comfortable in.
- You do not need to doubt your self-worth if you get Bs, Cs, or Ds. Not everyone can excel at everything.
- Do not get disheartened by failures. If you love the course, just keep trying. Success might take time, but it will surely come.
- Stop the comparison, because it will either make you or the other person feel low.
- Do not worry about the result. The actual result might need a lot of time. You have to be patient and keep working on it.
- There is no shame in realizing that your school or your subject may not be for you.
- Stop caring about other people's opinion. Feel free to take your own decisions. Choose whatever course, whatever career you want to. Do not get carried away by the stereotype. Be unique and love what you are doing.
Let's reach out to all those who are struggling and might want some help. I hope the 10 Big Academic Reminders! will be of help to whoever needs it. Take care!
