Life is a journey of constant development. What I once believed to be true have shifted over time, it has shaped by experiences, challenges, and personal growth. When I look back, I see how my mindset has transformed which allow me to appreciate life in a deeper and more meaningful way.
However, there was a time when my heart yeans to plan every detail of my life to ensure success and happiness. I believed that if I worked hard enough, I could control every consequence, but life has a way of humbling us. Unexpected events, failures, and disappointments have shown me that it is not everything that is within my control, and that is okay. Also, it is not all that glitters that is gold. Learning to embrace uncertainty has given me peace. Therefore, instead of resisting change, I now flow with it, trusting that everything happens for a reason.
As I grow up, I equated success with material wealth, achievements, and recognition. I thought happiness would come once I reached a certain milestone, but as time has passed, I’ve realized that success alone does not bring fulfillment. True happiness comes from living with purpose, making a difference in the lives of others, and finding joy in the present moment. The things that once seemed so important are now feel secondary to inner peace and meaningful relationships.
Furthermore, I often focused on what was missing in my life. I always chased after the next big thing, thinking that happiness was just around the corner. But over time, I’ve learned that true contentment comes from appreciating what I already have. Gratitude has changed my outlook completely. Instead of dwelling on what I lack, I now focus on the blessings that I once took for granted i.e. good health, loving relationships, and the simple joys of everyday life.
On the other hand, there was a time when I feared failure and avoided challenges at all costs, I saw struggles as setbacks rather than opportunities. Every struggle carries a lesson, every failure pushes us to grow, and every hardship makes us stronger. But life has shown me that the hardest moments often lead to the greatest growth. Painful experiences have taught me patience, calmness, tolerance, rejection, resilience, and wisdom. Now, I see challenges not as obstacles but as stepping stones toward becoming a stronger and wiser version of myself.
Nevertheless, I used to be so focused on the future that I forgot to enjoy the present. Always planning for what is next, I missed out on the beauty of the now. But time has a way of teaching us what truly matters. Life is happening in this very moment, and if we are always looking ahead, we will miss the joys of today. Now, I make a conscious effort to slow down, appreciate the present and embrace each day as a gift.
Conclusively, life is a continuous journey of learning and growth. My perspective has changed in ways I never expected, and I know it will continue to advance. The more I let go of fear, embrace gratitude, and focus on what truly matters, the more fulfilling life becomes. In the end, happiness is not found in chasing perfection but in appreciating the beauty of the journey itself. As the years pass, experiences shape our understanding, altering the way we see the world, our priorities, and what we consider as important. As I look back, I can see how my perspective on life has shifted in profound ways.
Thanks for Reading.
This is my entry to Hivenaija Prompt.