Hey there! Have you ever found yourself sitting across from your father, discussing your career options, only to feel like you're stuck in a time warp? "Beta, become a doctor or engineer," he says, as if it's the only way to secure a successful future. But why? Why must we conform to traditional professions when our passions lie elsewhere?
Let's face it – the Indian parental mindset is often fixated on prestige and stability. We're constantly reminded that doctors and engineers are the epitome of success. But what about the artists, writers, musicians, and entrepreneurs who dare to defy convention? Don't they deserve the same respect and encouragement?
I recall a conversation with my friend Ansh, whose father insisted he pursue engineering despite his passion for photography. "Dad, I want to capture life’s beauty through my lens," Ansh pleaded. His father responded, "But beta, what’s the guarantee of success? Engineering is secure." Of course, security is important, but at what cost?
Research suggests that pursuing one's passion leads to greater job satisfaction and happiness. A study by Gallup found that employees who use their strengths and skills every day are six times more likely to be engaged at work. Yet, we continue to prioritize traditional professions over personal fulfillment.
Take the example of Saina Nehwal, India's badminton sensation. Her parents encouraged her passion, despite the odds. Today, she's a world champion and an inspiration to millions. "My parents never forced me to become a doctor or engineer," Saina said in an interview. "They saw my passion for badminton and supported me wholeheartedly."
In India, we often hear the phrase "log kya kahenge" (what will people say)? But shouldn't we prioritize our own happiness over societal expectations? Shouldn't we encourage our children to explore their passions, even if they're unconventional?
Consider the success stories of entrepreneurs like Flipkart's Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal, who defied traditional norms to revolutionize e-commerce. Or take the example of Bollywood's Vidya Balan, who broke free from conventional beauty standards to become a celebrated actress.
Of course, there are risks involved in pursuing non-traditional careers. But isn't that true for any profession? Even doctors and engineers face challenges and uncertainties.
As I spoke with Ansh’s father, I asked him, "Don’t you want your son to be happy?" He paused, looking concerned. "Yes, of course, but what if he fails?" I countered, "What if he succeeds? What if his passion brings him joy and fulfillment?"
The truth is, our children's happiness and success depend on their ability to pursue their passions, not just traditional professions. It's time for parents to rethink their expectations and encourage their children to explore unconventional paths.
As the renowned Indian poet, Rabindranath Tagore, once said, "Don't limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time." Let's give our children the freedom to choose their own path, to explore, to innovate, and to succeed on their own terms.
In conclusion, let's move beyond the doctor-engineer mindset and celebrate the diversity of passions and talents. Let's create a world where our children can confidently say, "I want to be a photographer, a writer, or an entrepreneur," without fear of judgment or rejection.
"Log kya kahenge?" Let’s ask ourselves, "What will our children achieve if we believe in them?"
