SEC-S30W1: Anecdotes that teach: The Day I Almost Gave Up on My Dreams
Life was not necessarily simple during my university days. It is a common belief among many that when one is at university they are free, enjoying and successful. However, it was also a period of torture, panic and uncertainty in me. There was one experience, an experience during my second year, which made me learn something that will never be forgotten.
I can clearly recall that semester. I was doing some hard courses and on the other hand, I was experiencing family economic issues. In some instances, I would attend school on empty stomach. On some occasions, I would skip lectures due to the need to accomplish small tasks so as to make a living. Although I did my best I started getting poor grades. I got two failed important courses in my life.
I broke my heart when I saw my results. I was disappointed and ashamed of myself. I began to think, I do not think I should have university. Maybe I am not smart enough.” I would go to my bed every night staring at the ceiling and asking myself whether to surrender and go home.
On an afternoon, when I was sitting by myself in the library, my academic advisor spotted me. He asked why I looked sad. Initially, I did not want to speak, but I shared everything with him later. I told about my problems, my apprehensions, my shortcomings. He paid attention and after that, he said something that transformed my life.
He said, “Failure is not the end. It is a teacher. Learn anything in it, and you will become stronger.
Those words stayed in my mind. I also understood, the first time ever, that I was not being punished because of my failure. It was a lesson. That day I made a decision to change my attitude. I developed a new study pattern. I began to get up early in the morning and read. I minimized on unnecessary activities. I became a part of a study group in which we assisted one another.
It was not easy. Several instances I would get weary and desire to stop once again. But I thought of what my advisor had said. I remembered that I had bigger dream than I had fears.
Towards the conclusion of the subsequent semester, I had much better results. I got all my courses and I even got higher points than I used to. Even more than the grades I became confident. I got to know that I was not as weak as I thought.
In retrospect now, I would thank that trying time. It taught me to be patient, disciplined and persevering. I got to know that success never comes easily. I realized that it is easy to give up but it is strong to get back on my feet.
Had I surrendered at that time I should not be what I am now. That was an experience that influenced my personality and reformed my thinking. When I am going through rough times now, I recall that young college student who nearly gave up- but never.
This narration makes me remember that success is not the opposite of failure. It is part of success.
I invite @josepha, @stef1 and @mikitaly to drop a very constructive comments on this post and also to participate in this contest.
Hi, @adese
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I've always said that if you truly want something, you shouldn't give up. It's okay to stumble, but it also takes courage to acknowledge your mistakes and get back on track.
A simple and very well-told story about fears and insecurities.
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