go for it! keep at it!

Today, I saw a graphic on Instagram as I was scrolling. It displayed three of the same images stacked on one another. On the left side was a bow & arrow, and on the right side was the target. Each of the images was captioned 93% of people, 6% of people, and 1% of people, from top to bottom in that order, respectively. Now, apart from the captions, another thing distinguished these images from one another. The first image, captioned “93% of people,” had just a loaded bow and arrow aiming at the target, showing that many people have dreams and desires but rarely act on them. The second image, captioned “6% of people,” depicted a bow and arrow that was let go, shown missing the bullseye of the target, which signifies that some people try but give up quickly. However, the third and last image, captioned “1% of people,” showed a bunch of arrows all being launched from the bow, none of them hitting the mark until finally, the last arrow that was shot hit the bullseye. So, what I learned from this is that success takes patience and perseverance.

We are so quick to quit something after three weeks of no results, but we often forget that it takes a decade to become a practicing doctor or lawyer, for example. This conclusion, although easily realized, is often forgotten by most people (myself included) due to the information overload we are bombarded with daily and the “busyness=success” mindset that is rampant in society. This idea of keeping at it and really just trying again and again when you want something is not a new concept. It’s as old as time itself, and in theory, it seems really easy and fun to try out. Though I must say that this journey of trying really hard for something is filled with loads of failure and disheartenment. I myself have embarked on countless adventures trying to seek fame and wealth, and almost all of them flopped. At the time, I placed the blame for my failures on everything but myself. I wasn’t lucky enough; that’s why my NFTs failed. I didn’t have 0 ping to take my opponents' walls in Fortnite; Chess is just not for me. The list goes on and on.

The point is real change and success can only happen when you put the entire blame for bad outcomes on YOU. You have to acknowledge that there is a problem with you and the way you are doing things before you can even dream about change and ultimately success. I think the problem with me and a lot of us is that we have countless desires (lots of things we want to do); however, we are wired in such a way that we can only allot our time to a few things. It’s up to us to choose what is truly important in our lives and then really dig deep and stick to what we said we would do. A current example of one of the few important things in my life that I really dig deep for every day is the gym. I go to the gym six times a week and regularly push myself till failure; I’ve gotten accustomed to it. Now, I can’t even imagine skipping the gym; I get withdrawals! ;) Additionally, I’m totally fine that I’m not some super strong Hulk-like man. I had to accept that I can’t be like most of the guys I see on the Internet, especially not in just a few months of lifting weights. I changed my whole mindset toward the things I wanted to be successful at in life. First, I began to really enjoy the idea and process of growth instead of always looking for results. “I’ll get there one day, not in one day,” is what I tell myself.

So, to sum it all up: First, let’s ditch the idea of overnight success and really look for growth rather than results. Second, never stop working towards your goals because success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal. Lastly, we are all on our own unique journeys; don’t compare your day 1 to someone’s year 1. You are going to achieve all of your goals if you keep them in your mind constantly. Become obsessed with this idea of success by desiring and visualizing that you already have everything you could ever want. You’ll be success-conscious, and now all you have to do is have faith, as it removes self-imposed limitations. You will reach heights you could have never imagined. I believe in you, so please believe in yourself. You are meant to be great. Follow your heart and go for it! Keep at it!

no more parties

Red cups fill the night,

Youth lost in the blinding lights,

Dreams drowned in silence.

The Boys :)

The Boys
I used to think the distance would tear us apart.
Each day away felt like a weight pressing on my heart.
This new college, so far from the world we knew,
Had me wondering if our bond would slip away, too.

But this weekend, when we came together again,
I realized distance can’t touch what’s always been.
Hearing your laughs, feeling your warmth, just being with you,
It felt like home, in a way I never knew.

Koushik jokes about “kidney touching,” but he’s right.
It’s more than that. It’s real. It’s light.
Your care, your presence, your love that never fades,
It reminds me no miles can break what we’ve made.

As time moves forward, and we walk our separate ways,
I hope these moments stay with us through the days.
Every laugh, every tear, and everything in between,
Will only make our friendship stronger, more seen.

So here’s to us, "The Boys," unbreakable and true,
In this life, in love, until we’re through.
No matter where the road might wind,
We’ll keep growing, laughing, and loving, forever aligned.

Testing my Hand at Poetry

The Game of Life
Endless possibilities emerge,
as my mind begins to wander,
for the time being they are all just thoughts,
can’t seem to differentiate the right from wrong,
I don’t have the time for this,
my day has been so long.

Should I chase the echoes of a distant past,
with friends I’ve not seen in over a year?
Their laughter, their warmth such a tempting call,
but something inside still hesitates, in fear.
My best friend bowed out at the final hour,
now I face the road alone, unsure of my power.

The weekend stretches wide, filled with promise and loss;
my girlfriend’s smile, the grind of the gym,
assignments waiting with their silent cost.
How do I choose between joy and success,
when both weigh heavy on a heart in distress?

One road leads to memories, fleeting and bright,
the other to discipline, the long and quiet fight.
But what’s the right path when both feel so near?
The Game of Life is played, but I’m ruled by fear.

the “success” story of a lazy, yet ambitious child

"Where am I supposed to get $2,000 from to pay my term bill?" These words from a college friend stunned me during what I thought was a routine conversation about tuition costs. I was struck by disbelief. How could someone be stressed about $2,000? If my term bill were that low, I could handle it on my own. That fleeting thought revealed a much deeper ignorance within me, one I wasn’t even aware I had.

Fast forward a year, and my perspective has completely shifted. I’ve begun a journey of self-awareness, one that has forced me to confront the privilege I’ve lived with my entire life. This journey hasn’t just opened my eyes, it’s lit a fire under me, pushing me to strive for more, and to make the most of the opportunities I’ve been given, and to recognize the responsibility that comes with such advantages.

Growing up, financial hardships were never a part of my reality. My father’s constant support meant I never had to worry about money, and I mistakenly believed that my experience was the average American experience. This belief followed me right up until I arrived at college in Camden, NJ, a city often labeled with stereotypes about poverty and crime. Suddenly, I was surrounded by peers whose lives were so different from mine. They worked long hours, supported their families, and took on massive student debt, all while balancing and sometimes excelling in school. It was a stark contrast to my life of comfort, and for the first time, I started to feel my own complacency weigh on me.

My dad had always warned me, “Your biggest flaw is your laziness, Srijan.” I see now how right he was. My lack of struggle had left me too comfortable, robbing me of the drive to push myself. My parents raised me with a “golden spoon,” and while I’m forever grateful, it’s clear that this privilege made me passive. I had every opportunity laid out before me, and yet I quit countless extracurriculars my parents encouraged me to join. I never once stopped to think that I was fortunate to even have those opportunities because many kids never get a chance to explore the things I did.

The turning point came when I met Kiyara, a woman who I now consider an older sister. Her story shook me out of my complacency in a way nothing else ever had. Kiyara is just a few years older than me, yet her life is infinitely more challenging. She’s a pre-med student, juggling intense coursework with the responsibilities of being a mother to two kids under five. She works harder than anyone I know, despite having every reason to give up. Watching her balance school and motherhood so gracefully forced me to reevaluate my own life. If she could manage all of that and still give her best, what excuse did I have?

Kiyara’s determination sparked something in me. From that moment on, I decided to stop coasting through life. I pushed myself to study harder, to get more involved on campus, and to finally tap into the potential I’d been neglecting for so long.

It wasn’t enough just to join a few clubs. I immersed myself on campus. I now sit on the executive board of two organizations, work as a research assistant in a pediatric psychology lab, and am taking 21.5 credits this fall semester, all while serving as a Bonner Civic Scholar and interning with a local nonprofit. I’ve just recently applied to join the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee under the Student Government Association, and I feel like I’m finally pushing every limit, testing how far I can go. Every time I succeed, it feels like I’m proving something, not just to myself, but to the younger version of me who never tried hard enough.

Privilege isn’t inherently bad. However, it becomes dangerous when we aren’t aware of it. For a long time, my privilege stunted my growth, allowing me to stay in my comfort zone. But once I became conscious of it, it transformed into a motivator. I no longer see it as something to feel guilty about, but as a resource to use wisely. It has driven me to strive for more, not just for myself, but for those around me.

So, to everyone reading this, no matter what your background is, there’s privilege in your life, too. It may not look the same as mine, but it’s there. The key is to recognize it, be grateful for it, and use it, not as a reason to stay comfortable, but as fuel to drive you toward growth and to lift others as you rise.

stop taking things personally

We can't control what others say, but we can always control how we react. Taking offense doesn't help, it only holds you back. Remember, something only becomes a big deal when you make it one in your mind. When someone says something rude, avoid the instinct to think, "How dare they say that to me?" That's your ego talking. When you get upset and wonder how they dared to say something against you, it's often because you view yourself as untouchable. The truth is, everyone is going through their own struggles. Sometimes people's tongues slip, or maybe they're just rude, but don't let their behavior become your excuse to do something harmful.

Wrong actions are wrong, even if everyone is doing them, and right actions are right, even if nobody is. Discard negative thoughts toward others and, instead, build positivity within yourself. Be like the sun, shine through the stormy clouds with warmth and light.

When someone says something hurtful, try giving them the benefit of the doubt. Seek clarification before jumping to conclusions. Often, people don't mean what they say. And even if they do, remember that they might be dealing with their own issues and displacing that anger onto you. Don't lower yourself to their level of negativity. Whether holding onto hateful thoughts or expressing them out loud, it's a waste of your energy. Instead of clinging to that negativity, use your power for something positive, love yourself and lift yourself up.

One way to shield yourself from the impact of others' words is by building your own self-confidence. Find ways to boost your confidence through exercise, academic achievements, or pursuing passions that matter to you. When you feel secure in who you are, you're wearing an invisible armor that protects you from the negative words or actions of others. This confidence becomes your power, allowing you to control your reactions.

If you find it hard to ignore what others say, consider addressing the issue directly, especially with people you care about. Open up a conversation and ask why they said what they said. See if you can come to an understanding or a compromise so it doesn't happen again. This approach works well with those close to you, as they're more likely to be receptive when you assert yourself and express how you feel.

We're all living our own lives, facing our own challenges. Sometimes, people make mistakes or act out of character, but that doesn't mean you need to join them in a cycle of negativity. When you feel that familiar frustration bubbling up, step back and ask yourself if it's worth your peace of mind. Most of the time, you'll realize that holding onto a grudge or engaging in back-and-forth arguments wastes time and energy.

At our core, I believe all humans are inherently good. There's nothing more comforting than finding your own inner peace. It's not just an abstract idea, it's something you can achieve and use as a motivation to live a better life. Let go of your ego and live with a contagious smile that makes others want to be around you. Let's leave the world better than we found it.

P.S. This letter is for me more than anyone else. Taking things personally has been at the heart of most conflicts in my life, making me miserable. I'm learning to let go, for my own sake and because I've realized it's not about being right. It's about achieving what I truly want, and for me, that's inner peace.

read non-fiction books.

"When was the last time you read a book?" This was the question my middle school, high school, and now college teachers/professors asked my class before assigning a book to read. I would never answer out loud, feeling embarrassed each time. My mind would scramble to figure out when I last opened a book. Like many of my peers, I read a lot as a child until 5th grade. I was mesmerized by fantasy novels such as Percy Jackson and Warriors (cat book series), so much so that I begged my parents to buy me a bed light to read book series after series well past midnight.

But as I grew older, my reading habits declined. I forgot my town even had a public library, and when I did go, it would be for the computer lab and Xbox station to play video games. This never bothered me because I didn't feel I was missing out on much.

It dawned upon me during my senior year of high school that I was missing out on something big. I was deep into my self-improvement arc during May 2023, and all my social media accounts would push content promoting stereotypical self-improvement books such as 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. I bought into the hype, and it was definitely worth it. Once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down. It perfectly balanced historical evidence and practical ways to use the information in everyday life.

I went down a rabbit hole, purchasing more books than I could read. However, it didn't matter to me as I firmly believed I would get around to reading all of them eventually. And now, in the present, I am almost done with a good portion of them, and I will definitely say I feel much more intelligent than ever before. All the "old" ideas in my books proved gold.

Picking up books again after turning 18 was the best decision I have made in my short life. It opened up a new realm of knowledge to conquer while improving myself simultaneously.

So, with that being said, if you genuinely want to be more successful and find a cure to your boredom, definitely see a non-fiction book about a topic you like and read it. Non-fiction books are a treasure trove of knowledge that can broaden your horizons and enrich your life.

faith removes limitations

We all have goals and things we want to achieve in life. Some of us dream big and some dream within the limits set by themselves or society. I decided to dream big again for the first time since I quit making TikToks a year ago. I want to become a successful self-help YouTuber that educates my audience to be better for themselves and those around them. I want it to be one of my jobs, and I’d like to have a monthly income attached to that. Now that I know what I want to do, I have to actually do it. Which is usually the hard part in the story, but that's when I stumbled upon figures that have since changed my life for the better and really pushed me to pay the price of achieving my dreams—becoming the person I want to be.

I call them my grandfathers now as I hold them very close to my heart, and their names are Bob Proctor, Earl Nightingale, and Napoleon Hill. I attended Bob’s Zoom seminars, binged his YouTube videos, and watched and rewatched one of Nightingale’s videos. These two took their ideas from the OG, Mr. Hill, whose most famous book I purchased, Think and Grow Rich. Think and Grow Rich seems pretty simple, almost like we already do it, but the fact is we don’t—at least not how Hill says we should if we want something. We have to fervently wish for something to the point where onlookers think we are insane. “Faith removes limitations,” are his own words. He says before we can do anything, we have to believe we can. We have to visualize ourselves already having all the things we could ever want. We must orient ourselves to become success conscious.

Our minds are the most fertile land known to man, and when we plant thoughts in our minds—regardless of whether they are good or bad—our minds will grow them in the same way. You reap what you sow. He backs up all this thinking that some may view as delusional with a plethora of real-life examples such as Charles Schwab, his own son, Henry Ford, Mr. Carnegie, and many more. The point is you really just have to think to grow rich, and I’m beginning to think and seek so fervently this dream of mine. I want to become a successful YouTuber, so I will become a successful YouTuber, and now I just have to keep on desiring while the path shows itself as I climb the ladder to stardom.

This isn’t something curated to be a blog topic like my usual posts, but just something that is real to me. This is me, raw. I want to become a successful YouTuber and writer. I want to create and engage the youth to push their self-imposed limits and never give up. I want us all to let our imagination run freely and dream wholeheartedly. Lastly, I want to make my dad proud, so I will. I know I will.

- ps: Thanks for always believing in me, Nanna. YouTube is going to be my next successful venture, and I will undoubtedly fail a lot before I make it to the top.

Love,
Srijan

Sleep Schedules Aren’t For The Weak 😡 🫨

I’m not here to tell you when to sleep or wake up. I trust you, in that you can sleep and wake up at times that won’t cause major dysfunctions in your life. However, I will urge you to sleep and wake up at roughly the same time every day. Now hear me out, this isn’t an unreasonable demand, you want what's best for you and so do I. Without diving into all the science and research surrounding sleep schedules, let's just ask the simple questions and answer them ourselves. Why do we (college students) have inconsistent sleep schedules?

Now let’s be real with ourselves, I’ll start us off. We love using our phones, especially towards the end of the day when we don’t have anything else to do so we fill our time with scrolling on social media or watching something. Next, we have homework that we always do at the last minute. Sure the teacher assigned the homework 2 weeks ago but we would rather use our time doing anything but the assignment. Then when it's 9:00 PM and the assignment is due in 3 hours at midnight we begin stressing intensely as we scramble to finish the work in time. Lastly, we have social lives and friends/friend groups that keep us up late at night even though we may be better off sleeping. Now I’m not telling you to have no friends or life, I understand the late-night chats that go well past midnight, I’ve had plenty of those myself. What I will say is that everything needs to be in moderation or under control.You shouldn’t be going out to parties and coming back to your dorms at 2:30 AM and then talking for another 2 hours with your friends before ultimately falling asleep. This is bad for your body, brain, and mood apparently (according to research and studies which I promised not to bring up 😂).

We all know we should be sleeping 6 to 8 hours a night at our age however, we often tend to cut off some of our sleep hours for the things I talked about previously (phone, social life, homework). Now let me ask you a trick question, Is it easier to sleep less or scroll/socialize/procrastinate less? The obvious answer would be to sleep less but what about the long-term effects of sleeping less vs. doing bad habits less (scrolling/socializing/procrastinating)? Sleeping less and less as you age is fatal (it can kill you 🙂) however doing bad habits less and less as you age will ultimately help you win back control of your life and feel more fulfilled. The choice is yours, sleep less if you believe in YOLO 👍, but remember about the FOMO as well because you can only YOLO… if you’re alive 😂

Realistic, Actionable Advice 🎉:

• Set a designated bedtime, I suggest midnight if you’re constantly sleeping after midnight.

• Try not to have any assignments that are due at midnight, do them at least day before they are due. In general try not to stay up late working on any assignment, if your teacher gives you a week to do it, then spend 15-30 minutes daily during the daytime hours during the 1 week period, doing it so all your work doesn’t pile up and take away from your sleep. 

• Delete social media on your phone and keep them on your other devices such as your computer or tablet (maybe delete your most used apps on your phone if you can’t delete all social media).

• Set a curfew for yourself or limit the number of days you go out/socialize with friends, maybe the weekends are days where you have no designated bedtime and on school nights you should be in bed by midnight so you can get 7 hours of sleep.

• Try to not look at any screens in the hour before your designated bedtime, instead try reading a book of your choice until you get sleepy and want to fall asleep. This is my favorite method of getting ready for bed as it has helped me a lot.

Now on a darker philosophical note 🙈 :

Your past dictates your present, as your present does the same for your future.

Everything is intertwined, everything is connected.

If you were a fool in the past, life will give you a second chance called the present, however, if you continue down that path even in the present, you won’t live to see a future. 

YOLO, you only live once…...

Opposites Don’t Attract (ft. cultural friend groups)

Throughout my childhood in New Hampshire, I had three close friends. Despite being surrounded by white people, all my friends were of Indian descent, just like me. Fast forward, and I am in my first year of college, and who would have guessed, my new best friend is also of Indian descent. So I tried to understand why that was, why all of the meaningful friendships and connections in my life were Indian. The answer to this question has led me to multiple answers and factors that play into this whole exclusive same-race/ethnicity friend group phenomenon.

This all starts with the family influence that shapes who you spend your time around as a child outside your house. Personally speaking, my childhood was filled with experiences where my parents would take me to their friends’ houses, and they would have kids my age. Going to their houses and having my parents' friends come to our house eventually sparked friendships between myself and their children. My family and community networks forged unbreakable social connections with people like me from a young age. As I grew older, it became an inside joke between me and my Indian friends to call the white kids at school our “school friends,” whereas we were each other's actual “real” friends. I found this hilarious at the time because we would ask each other why we were even talking to so and so at school, and we would respond because every connection with a person has its use, even if they seem shallow.

However, starting college last fall made me realize a lot of things that were flawed with my friend group and all the exclusive friend groups like this. While we may have connected due to our parents being family friends or just because we saw each other in school one day and were like “Aha, an Indian just like me,” it doesn't change the fact that we limited each other's exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. Nor does it change the fact that groups like ours are “echo chambers” where members only hear and reinforce similar views, which only stunts personal growth and open-mindedness. Lastly, in friend groups like mine, members might also feel pressure to conform to cultural norms and expectations, even if they don't align with their personal beliefs or identities because nobody wants to be “whitewashed.”

All these negatives regarding a friend group like mine don’t come without their positives, which is why this issue raises the question of “Are exclusive Indian-only friend groups such a bad thing?” Well, it depends, because in a world and country filled with so much hate towards minorities, these groups can offer significant benefits. Members of the group may share similar cultural backgrounds, traditions, and values, which can foster a sense of belonging and understanding. Shared language, customs, and experiences can create a comforting environment, especially for those who might feel marginalized in broader society. These groups can provide emotional and social support, especially in environments where members might face racism or discrimination. They can offer guidance and advice based on shared experiences, such as navigating identity issues or dealing with cultural expectations. Additionally, such groups can help preserve cultural heritage and traditions, passing them on to future generations. They can provide a space to celebrate cultural events and practices that might not be as prominent in the broader community.

Ultimately, the healthiness of an Indian-only friend group, or any ethnic-specific group, depends on how it balances inclusivity, support, and openness to diverse experiences. Individuals need to assess their own needs and the dynamics of their friend groups to ensure they are fostering positive and enriching relationships. How do you navigate the balance between cultural comfort and diverse experiences in your friendships?

A Self-Improvement Paradox

In today's digital age, the quest for self-improvement has become very popular . Social media platforms, YouTube channels, and countless blogs are filled with tips, tricks, and philosophies on how to become the best version of ourselves. However, there's a growing trend that many of us have fallen into: the addiction to self-improvement content itself. We often find ourselves consuming endless amounts of advice without actually applying it to our lives, leading to a paradox where we seek improvement but remain stagnant. Let's explore why this happens and how we can break free from this cycle.

The allure of self-improvement content is rooted in the instant gratification it provides. Watching an inspiring video or reading an insightful article can make us feel motivated and productive, even if we haven't taken any real action. The algorithms on social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged, leading us down endless rabbit holes of content. Before we know it, hours have passed. This endless stream of content can be both comforting and addictive, giving us the illusion of progress. We feel like we're learning and growing, even if we haven't applied any of the knowledge we've gained.

The downside of this overconsumption is significant. The more time we spend consuming content, the less time we have to implement it. We become armchair philosophers, knowledgeable but inactive. With so much content available, it can be overwhelming to determine what advice to follow. This can lead to decision paralysis, where we do nothing because we're unsure where to start. Ironically, many people seek self-improvement content to combat other addictions, only to develop a new addiction to the content itself. This keeps us in a cycle of seeking improvement without ever achieving it.

Breaking this cycle requires deliberate action. Before diving into self-improvement content, define what you want to achieve. Having specific, actionable goals can help you stay focused and prevent you from getting lost in endless content. For every piece of content you consume, commit to taking one actionable step. If you watch a video about morning routines, implement one new habit the next day. Set boundaries for how much time you spend consuming self-improvement content. Use apps or timers to remind you to take breaks and engage in real-life activities. Regularly reflect on the content you consume and assess its impact on your life. Are you seeing real changes, or are you simply feeling motivated in the moment? Sharing your goals with a friend or joining a community that encourages action can provide the push you need to move from consumption to implementation.

While self-improvement content can be a valuable resource, it's essential to strike a balance between consumption and action. By setting clear goals, limiting screen time, and holding ourselves accountable, we can ensure that the content we consume translates into real, meaningful changes in our lives. Remember, true self-improvement comes not from endless consumption but from consistent, deliberate actions.

Balance Ambition With Contentment

Ever found yourself googling "how to get a 6-pack in 5 minutes" at 3 AM? These were some of the ambitious thoughts I would have when I felt at my lowest and needed to turn my life around. At that time, I didn't realize just how hard "turning my life around" would be. All good things take time, but in a world where quick, no work required dopamine-hits are the norm, it becomes impossible to do the hard but necessary things in life. Studying, working out, spending time outside and off the phone, all of these things become impossible. There are too many distractions.

We live in a society that glorifies instant gratification. We're bombarded with images of success that seem to happen overnight, whether it's someone achieving their dream body, landing a perfect job, or even finding their ideal partner. These success stories, often shared without the context of the effort behind them, create a misleading narrative that you can achieve greatness with minimal effort.

This mindset can be toxic. It makes us impatient and dissatisfied with the steady, incremental progress that actually leads to lasting change. The truth is, achieving our goals requires sustained effort and the ability to delay gratification. It's about finding a balance between contentment with where we are now and ambition for where we want to be.

So how do we balance these two seemingly opposing forces? Here are a few strategies that have helped me:

1. Set Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for a 6-pack in a week, set a goal to exercise regularly. Start small and build up gradually. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how minor it may seem. This will keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment.

2. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness helps you stay present and appreciate the journey. When you're mindful, you can enjoy the process of working towards your goals instead of just focusing on the end result. This shift in perspective can reduce stress and increase satisfaction.

3. Limit Distractions: Identify what distracts you the most and find ways to minimize those distractions. This might mean setting specific times to check your phone, creating a dedicated study space, or even using apps that block distracting websites.

4. Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial. Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it's a hobby, a walk in nature, or simply relaxing with a good book. When you feel good, you're more likely to stay committed to your goals.

5. Embrace the Process: Understand that progress is often slow and non-linear. There will be setbacks and obstacles, but these are part of the journey. Learn to appreciate the effort you put in and the growth you experience along the way.

Balancing contentment and ambition is an ongoing process. It's about being kind to yourself, recognizing your achievements, and continuously striving for improvement. By adopting these strategies, you can work towards your goals in a healthy, sustainable way. Remember, it's not about the destination but the journey. Stay focused, stay patient, and enjoy the ride.

To The Man that Came From Zero But Never Failed To Be My Hero

He came from nothing but still he rose, defying the odds and overcoming every challenge. My father, a man of unwavering strength and love, believed in me even when I doubted myself. As we celebrate Father’s Day, I honor the man who has been my compass and heart .

My father’s journey is one of resilience and determination. He came from a humble background, sacrificing his dreams and passion to give us a better life. As the sole breadwinner, he carried our dreams on his shoulders, never faltering in his resolve to provide for us.

One of my earliest memories is playing baseball with my dad at three years old. Those backyard moments, with him patiently teaching me how to swing the bat, are etched in my mind. It wasn’t just about the game, it was about building a bond, learning persistence and teamwork, and laying a foundation of trust and love.

The saddest I’ve ever felt was spending over a thousand dollars on my dad’s credit card playing Fortnite. When he found out, he argued with the credit card company, insisting it was a mistake because "my son would never do that." When he discovered the truth, I was devastated, feeling like I had betrayed his trust. Yet, even in his disappointment, he forgave me, teaching me responsibility and trust.

The angriest I’ve ever felt was after doing poorly on the SAT. I scored 1330 the first time. My dad wasn’t angry, he said he was disappointed, which was harder to bear because I knew I hadn’t put in the effort. I felt like I had shattered his belief in me. But this moment pushed me to reflect, work harder, and prove I could achieve more.

The happiest I ever felt was on the last day of summer before college started. In front of my high school advisor, my dad said he was proud of me and believed I would continue to make him prouder. Hearing those words filled me with indescribable joy and renewed determination to live up to his belief in me.

Through all the ups and downs, my father never stopped believing in my potential. He tested my resolve, pushed me to be my best, and taught me that true success comes from hard work, dedication, and integrity. No matter how rough it got, his faith in me never wavered, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

I owe everything to my father. We come from a poor background, he was the one that rose from it through blood, sweat, and tears. He is the foundation upon which I stand, the platform that allows me to reach for the stars. Without him, I would never have amounted to anything.

Thank you, Dad, for being my world, my support, and my inspiration.

Happy Father’s Day.

P.S.

Reflecting on my father's journey and his profound impact on my life fills me with deep gratitude and love. His story is a testament to belief, resilience, and unwavering support. To all the fathers who inspire and believe in their children, thank you. You are the true heroes.

Preferring Lighter Skin Isn’t a Preference

I’ve always preferred lighter skin as an ideal partner and have never talked to anyone darker than me. This makes me wonder, am I not attracted to people with darker skin? Pause. Let’s talk about it. While it might seem like a harmless preference, it’s essential to understand the deeper implications. Historically, lighter skin has been unfairly elevated as the beauty standard across many cultures, from ancient Egypt to Rome. This bias, rooted in racism, has perpetuated the idea that lighter skin is more beautiful, leaving those with darker skin marginalized and deemed less attractive.

This preference isn't just about personal taste, it reflects a long-standing, ingrained prejudice. When people say they prefer light skin, it often mirrors these societal biases, leading to internalized racism where darker-skinned individuals might even discriminate against themselves. It’s alarming and harmful. Instead of blindly following these outdated beauty standards, we must question and challenge them.

By understanding the historical context and questioning our biases, we can move towards appreciating the beauty in all skin tones, fostering a more inclusive and equitable view of attractiveness. Let’s get curious, ask why, and make informed decisions rather than accepting societal norms without scrutiny.

How Eight Months Changed My Life More Than 18 Years

It's wild how eight months can completely transform you. For me, it was like being reborn, and I owe it all to Amaya, my incredible girlfriend. Without her, I might have stayed stuck in my old ways, surrounded by my tight-knit circle of Indian friends, eventually marrying within my race, and raising kids with the same out-dated perspectives I grew up with.

Before Amaya, my world was small. I was on a path to perpetuating the same cycle of exclusivity and unfounded prejudices. My upbringing, while loving, was limited in perspective. My parents, and their parents before them, passed down their views without questioning them. Children are like molten iron, ready to be molded into something beautiful or something destructive. Amaya's mom did an amazing job raising her, while my parents, though well-meaning, couldn't see beyond their own experiences.

Our relationship highlights a bigger issue in society: the need to step outside our bubbles. It's human nature to feel comfortable with the familiar and anxious about the unknown. My upbringing was filled with subtle (and not-so-subtle) cues that perpetuated racism, colorism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. I was taught to be wary of certain races without understanding the systemic issues they faced.

Everything around me (my family, friends, culture, and even the films I watched) reinforced these biases. When I got my first phone and access to the internet, I thought I'd finally break free and form my own beliefs. But my mind was already shaped by the ideas I grew up with, and I found myself gravitating towards familiar perspectives.

Then Amaya came along. She pushed me to confront and question everything I believed. We argued, debated, and eventually found common ground. One conversation that stands out was about how we would react if we had a child who wasn't straight. I had never really thought about this deeply, and my initial reactions were rooted in the biases I had grown up with. Amaya challenged me, sharing her views on acceptance and love. Over time, she helped me understand the importance of accepting and supporting a child no matter their sexual orientation. This shift in perspective was profound. I realized how much I had been missing by clinging to outdated ideas. My character began to change, and I started to judge people based on their actions, not their backgrounds.

This transformation extended beyond our relationship. I started seeking friendships with people who have good character, regardless of their background. I no longer discriminated against people right from the get-go and became much more open-minded. This openness has also influenced my career aspirations. I now want to work as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with kids who have autism, driven by a newfound empathy and understanding.

My biggest takeaway for you? Surround yourself with people who challenge you. Engage in conversations with those who have different viewpoints. This kind of environment fosters real growth and broadens your perspective. In just eight months, I transformed more than I had in my entire life by opening up to someone with different opinions. You can too.