Adulting 101
THE STRUGGLE OF THE 21ST CENTURY
Published
11 months agoon
Today, Human rights are no longer an abstract idea. People know what they are and why it’s important to respect them. Like everything, however, they are subjective in that their application is dependent on who is the recipient and who is the giver. In case you’re tempted to think of this as a fallacy, focus on the past. After all, without it, we cannot see where we’re going.
The world constantly faces various social phenomena and it is the job of the powerful and elite to alleviate them. They never do, so the minority has to fight for what is rightfully theirs. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Africans fought for their freedom against any man, white or otherwise who kept them as slaves. In the 21st century, the fight did not stop as their oppressors turned to racism. They openly acted in ways that made them feel less than. That is the hierarchy that is human beings, they are at the bottom of the food chain because of the color of their skin. While this fight is yet to come to an end, and we shall certainly revisit it, the 21st century has given rise to another; sexuality.
The one thing that seems to bring people together regardless of skin color is hate. This is why sexuality is an issue that transcends race. We have come together to find a reason to project our bias, prejudices, and fears on individuals with a sexual identity that doesn’t conform to normal standards. That a man can be in love with another, want to change his body because he identifies as a woman, or even that a woman can do the same, is shameful and scornful. Many use the Bible to defend their actions and opinions. That God Almighty created man and woman. Not man and man or woman and woman. To this, I ask, what of the individual with both sexual organs? Who created him or her? Is it so bad that the choices placed before them are explored? In ‘What it Means to be a Woman’, I spoke about why we give labels to people. I’ll pause and give you a minute to read… OK. Now that you’re all caught up, the hatred that I spoke about comes from not being able to label one another.
Edwin Chiloba, a fashion designer and LGBTQ member, and activist’s body was found dead in a metal box. That someone would go to such an extent to murder him and dispose of him in a gruesome way speaks about our state of mind. Many individuals in the community have been assaulted, received death threats, and even been murdered because of their sexual orientation and preferences. Why is it that we want to forcefully show these people that they are wrong and we are right? What is this innate drive to ‘rectify’ this wrong when so much is wrong with the world? Extreme poverty and poor health and sanitation, just off the top of my head.
I have often been asked what I would do if my son ended up gay. Every time, I give a simple answer; love. I’m not very religious and even I know that the greatest commandment in the Bible is love. God in his might, knows and sees all our actions but cannot change them. If he loves that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individual, who am I to shun my child? To show him that my love is conditional and dependent on his being what I want? I would be a failure.
At the risk that I am just running my mouth, I will end with this. Laws call for equality and non-discrimination the opposite of which is oppressive and backward thinking. Should we fail to learn from history, the oppressed will revolt and history will repeat itself. This is a call for humanity. All lives matter.
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A Journey of Self-Discovery: Book Review of Educated by Tara Westover
Do you feel like life’s throwing you one too many curveballs lately? Welcome to your quarter-life crisis—well, I wouldn’t call it that, more like a plot twist!
If you’re in your 20s or early 30s, chances are you’ve felt that unsettling mix of confusion, anxiety, and “What am I even doing with my life?” vibe. But hey, it’s not as grim as it seems. This phase, though overwhelming, is more of a growth spurt for your mind and soul.
Here’s How to Navigate this Rollercoaster with Style
1. Embrace the Chaos, Don’t Fight It
First off, let’s normalize the chaos. Life’s not a straight path, and the sooner you accept the zig-zags, the smoother your ride will be. Remember, everyone’s story is different, so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s Instagram highlight reel.
This period of uncertainty? It’s just the universe’s way of nudging you towards something bigger and better.
2. Reflect and Redirect
Feeling lost? That’s your cue to pause and reflect. Ask yourself the deep questions: What do I really want? What makes me happy? It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away.
Start small—maybe it’s time to pivot in your career, explore a new hobby, or even take a solo trip to clear your mind.
The goal is to redirect your energy towards what genuinely matters to you.
3. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Your vibe attracts your tribe, so keep it positive. Hang out with people who uplift you, not those who drain your energy. And don’t forget to celebrate the small wins—whether it’s finally nailing that work project or just getting out of bed when you didn’t feel like it. Positivity breeds more positivity, and that’s what you need right now.
4. Trust the Process
Trust me, everything you’re going through is preparing you for something amazing. You might not see it now, but hindsight’s 20/20, right? So, trust the process and keep moving forward, even if it’s just one baby step at a time. Your plot twist? It’s leading to a grand finale that’ll be worth the wait.
A quarter-life crisis isn’t the end of the world; it’s just a chapter in your story. Embrace the uncertainties, learn from them, and use this time to craft a life that’s true to who you are. After all, you’re the author of your own story and this plot twist? It’s just the beginning of something epic.
Adulting 101
Career Hopping: The Emotional Cost of Constant Reinvention
Published
4 months agoon
August 14, 2024Remember the days when people would stick to one job for life? Yeah, that’s a distant memory for most of us. These days, switching careers every few years seems to be the norm, especially among millennials and Gen Z. It’s exciting, keeps things fresh, and opens up new opportunities. But beneath the surface, career hopping can take an emotional toll that’s often overlooked.
So, what’s the real cost of constantly reinventing ourselves in the professional world. Let’s face it—career hopping is both thrilling and terrifying. On one hand, it’s all about exploring new opportunities, challenging yourself, and refusing to settle for anything less than what you deserve. On the other hand, it’s a rollercoaster of uncertainty, where each leap into the unknown comes with its own set of risks and emotional challenges.
One of the biggest pressures driving career hopping is the fear of missing out (FOMO). We’re bombarded with success stories on social media—people landing dream jobs, starting businesses, and seemingly living their best lives. It’s hard not to compare yourself and wonder if you’re falling behind. This can push us to jump from one job to another, always in search of the next big thing, but never truly settling into a role.
But here’s the thing: constantly changing jobs can be exhausting. Each new position comes with a learning curve—new skills to master, new colleagues to understand, and a new work culture to adapt to. It’s a lot to take on, and the stress can quickly add up. The excitement of a fresh start can be overshadowed by the anxiety of having to prove yourself all over again.Moreover, there’s the emotional impact of leaving behind teams and projects that you’ve invested in. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the relationships you build along the way. Saying goodbye to colleagues who’ve become friends can be tough, and starting over in a new environment can feel lonely at times.So, how can we navigate the ups and downs of career hopping without losing ourselves in the process? Here are some tips:
– Reflect on Your Goals: Before making a move, take some time to reflect on your long-term career goals. What do you really want to achieve? Will this new role bring you closer to that goal, or are you just chasing the next shiny thing?
– Embrace Lifelong Learning: Instead of hopping from one job to another, consider ways to grow within your current role. Lifelong learning—whether through courses, certifications, or new projects—can help you stay challenged and fulfilled without the need to constantly change jobs.
– Build a Support System: Career hopping can be emotionally draining, so it’s important to have a support system in place. Whether it’s friends, family, or mentors, having people to talk to about your experiences can make a huge difference.
– Prioritize Mental Health: Don’t forget to take care of your mental health. The stress of career changes can take a toll, so make sure you’re practicing self-care, whether that’s through meditation, exercise, or simply taking time to relax.In the end, career hopping isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s about how you approach it.
By being mindful of the emotional impact and making decisions that align with your long-term goals, you can enjoy the benefits of career hopping without burning out. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination.
Adulting 101
Rediscovering Yourself Through Solo Travel: The Mental Health Benefits of Venturing Alone
Published
4 months agoon
August 12, 2024Ever considered packing your bags and hitting the road alone? It might sound a bit daunting—traveling alone, without the comfort of familiar faces—but there’s something incredibly liberating about it.
Solo travel is more than just an opportunity to explore new places; it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself in ways that everyday life rarely allows. Let’s dive into the mental health benefits of venturing out on your own, and why solo travel might just be the best therapy you didn’t know you needed.
There’s a unique kind of freedom that comes with solo travel. You’re not tied to anyone else’s schedule or preferences, and that means you get to do exactly what you want, when you want. This kind of independence can be incredibly empowering, especially in a world where we’re often expected to conform to the needs and expectations of others.
One of the most profound benefits of solo travel is the opportunity it provides for self-reflection. When you’re alone in a new environment, away from the usual distractions of daily life, you have the space to think deeply about where you’re at in life—your goals, your values, your dreams. It’s a time to reconnect with yourself and rediscover what truly matters to you.
For many, solo travel also offers a chance to confront and overcome fears. Whether it’s the fear of being alone, the fear of the unknown, or the fear of stepping out of your comfort zone, traveling solo forces you to face these anxieties head-on. And when you do, you often find that you’re much stronger and more capable than you realized. This boost in confidence can have lasting effects, helping you to tackle challenges in other areas of your life with a renewed sense of self-assurance.Moreover, solo travel encourages you to be present. Without the distractions of companions or the pressure to stick to a group itinerary, you can truly immerse yourself in the moment.
Whether it’s watching a sunrise on a deserted beach, wandering through a bustling market, or simply sitting in a café and people-watching, these moments of mindfulness can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall mental well-being.But let’s not forget about the social aspect.
Traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. In fact, solo travelers often find it easier to meet new people. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with a fellow traveler, connecting with locals, or joining a group tour, solo travel opens up opportunities for meaningful interactions that you might not experience if you were traveling with others. These connections can be incredibly enriching, offering new perspectives and friendships that last long after the trip is over.
To make the most of your solo travel experience, here are a few tips:
– Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible: It’s good to have a general idea of what you want to do, but don’t over-schedule. Allow yourself the freedom to change plans and explore new opportunities as they arise.
-Stay Safe: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places. Keep your valuables secure, and stay connected with someone back home who knows your itinerary.
– Embrace the Solitude: Take advantage of the quiet moments to reflect and recharge. Use this time to journal, meditate, or simply enjoy your own company.
– Be Open to New Experiences: Solo travel is a great opportunity to try things you wouldn’t normally do. Whether it’s tasting new foods, learning a new skill, or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, be open to stepping outside your comfort zone.Solo travel is more than just a way to see the world; it’s a journey into yourself. It’s about discovering who you are when no one’s watching, and finding strength in your own company.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, traveling alone offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and mental rejuvenation. So next time you feel the urge to escape, consider going solo—you might just find that the person you meet along the way is yourself.
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