PHOTO BY ME
I have been doing a lot of introspection lately, and one conclusive thought I have had during this period has revolved around time, chance, and location. These are the three major markers of destiny, which is contrary to everything I was taught as a young boy.
I was told that working hard earned you a better shot at actualizing your dreams and aspirations, and throughout my entire existence, I have exerted as much effort as I could in everything I do. Unfortunately, that hasn't gotten me anything above the barest minimum.
Contrary to what I was taught, life has always been kinder to me in moments when I apply the least amount of effort. Maybe this is due to the sacrifices and work done in the past, but then again, it is never enough to scale me past the limitations my skills and environment have placed on me.
Currently, I am supposedly the hardest-working person at my place of work; even my bosses have acknowledged my effort. However, that doesn't translate into better wage. The work I do is still classified as unskilled labor, thus, there isn't much negotiating power on my end, plus I cannot speak the official language of my country of residence.
Now, I am not particularly offended by my current reality because my wage affords me a good life, and I barely work three times weekly. Nevertheless, knowing my skill set exceeds my current occupation, it does make me wonder what life would have been like if I had earned my first degree at a foreign university and could speak German (all still within reach).
It does feel like I spent my entire twenties chasing pavements. All I have accumulated over the years from my entrepreneurial endeavors has been dwarfed in nine months working a part-time job. My only solace right now is that I am in an environment where I achieve all my dreams despite the limitations, but it does get to me sometimes.
At this point in my life, I should be thriving and not trying to build from scratch—although it is somewhat easier. It would feel much more fulfilling to be in a position where I have more to give than I take to my community and the world in general.
If I could change anything, I would have left my country a lot sooner. At this point, that seems like the only thing holding me back. The idea that one's destiny is tied to where they are born is totally outrageous, especially when that country is subject to external influence (not disregarding internal corrupt practises).
In conclusion, time, chance, and location are all environmental factors that impact one's socioeconomic trajectory. Unlike time and space, one can change their location, and that might be the game changer. So, if you are considering moving to a different city or country, you should, because it might just be what you need to change your outlook on life.