Here’s to…

Here’s to those with a family that pressurises you to be the best. 

Are you really doing what you love or are you just doing what you’ve always been programmed to believe that you will love? I’m sure you’ve slipped up once in a while and decided that what you really wanted to pursue was culinary. But then your parents or sister or friends turned it down because it isn’t too “realistic”. Perhaps you have an overachieving sister who has always set the example in the house of what you should be when you grow up. You’ve always felt insecure about never doing enough, even if you’re working your butt off doing the IB, an internship, writing a book, taking part in robotics, working part-time, volunteering at an orphanage, SAVING THE WORLD. 

But criticism, criticism, criticism is what you will always hear. In my experience, I’ve learned that you really can’t change people. But what you can do is try and communicate your feelings as much as you can to them. Worst case, they will ignore you. However, best case, they will understand to an extent and give you the space to be your own person. Besides, its just a matter of time until you finish the IB and go to college. And trust me, you will get your priorities straight when you gain your independance. 

Just pull through for a while, and it will be okay. At the end of the day, you are your own person. No matter who you disappoint, you’ve only got yourself. So focus on you and not on those who dont bring out the best in you. 

Here’s to those who strive for the bare minimum.

I wouldn’t say there’s anything particularly wrong with this, because it really depends on your priorities. If just making it through is what allows you to have a balance in life and focus on what you think matters, then I think it’s fantastic. Because the need to be perfect will haunt you. So if anything, I admire it. 

Here’s to those who dream big.

You are what the world is lacking. Dreaming big. When was the last time we heard something as great as inventing the lightbulb? The world needs another Thomas Alva Edison. After all the bad news that we’ve been breathing over the past 2 years, I think it’s time that we hear something good. You can be one of those people. Whether it’s as simple as coming up with a crazy idea for your biology IA or an insane addition to your CAS portfolio, ambition is key. Ambition will drive you, money may not always. 

Here’s to those who know exactly what they’re doing and exactly where they’re going to end up. 

Knowing what you want is one of the most difficult things in life. Because as you grow and change, your priorities change. But that 1% of people who came out of the womb with a stethoscope and wore it for the rest of their lives– you know exactly what you want. You’ve probably even calculated your predicted IB score at the start of the year and will work until you get it. However, you must understand that there are just some things that you can’t control. You might’ve done an excellent job on your Extended Essay but maybe the examiner had a bad day. And just maybe this reflected in your work. You must learn to go out of  your comfort zone and try new things. Otherwise, disappointment will hit your harder. Flexibility is one of the most important life skill to posses. During rough times, you will need to adjust and change your plans. 

Here’s to those with a never-ending to-do list. 

A list is just a piece of paper with ink on it. You are a complex machine put together in the most beautiful way. Are your really going to let a list bother you? Sometimes it’s best to just start doing and not plan on doing. Planning gives you a sense of accomplishment but that comes with a side of stress. Why bother when you can just start doing your work and save time. I’m not saying, don’t plan. I’m saying, don’t plan your entire life. I know, I know your IA is due next week, EE first draft is due next month, your TOK presentation was due yesterday, you’ve still got 8 activities left to do for CAS, midterms coming soon and so much more. Take it one day at a time. One of the hardest things in life is realising that you can’t control everything. Some things will slap you in the face like a cow’s wavering tail. Smaller goals will lead to satisfaction and a great sense of achievement. 

And lastly, here’s to those who don’t give a sh*t. 

I will always envy you.