Being part of a society where poking one’s nose in other’s business and giving out muft mashvaray is considered a moral obligation; I feel it’s my duty to tell others what I think they should do. So here’s my unsolicited advice;
Career Choice
For students who have just got their higher secondary school result and are about to step into the labyrinth of “bs ye chaar/paanch hain university k, phir professional life hogi, aazaadi, maujain e maujain”. NO. Aesa kuch nae honay wala. University life will give you the kind of stress that even your board k parchay couldn’t give. You’ll find more leeches and snakes than you’ve seen on Nat Geo. Group projects will teach you how you’re the only person you should ever trust.
And when you’ll finally step out of the university with a degree in your hand, “job hogai?”, “shaadi ka kia irada hy?”, “falaan ne ye bhi kar lia, vo bhi kar lia, tum ne kia socha?” will be there to welcome you.
They say choosing a wrong life partner derails your life like nothing else could. Choosing a wrong major is even worse. So make sure you sign up for something you actually like.
Parenting Tips
For parents whose children have just cleared their intermediate examination. It’s time you do the ‘talk’ with your child. Ask them about their dreams and aspirations. Tell them you want the best for them but don’t force your unfulfilled dreams on them. The world is advancing at a very fast pace, don’t make your child a part of a race he’s not fit for running in.
You have been investing in your children’s better future for so long, it’s time you trust your children to make a better future for them. They might earn less than your colleague’s son but they will love you more. They might fail, but they’ll learn and they will not end up hating themselves or blaming you for their failures.
For those who do not fit in any of the discussed categories. Look around for confused youngsters. Younger siblings, cousins, nephews and nieces, neighbours, students; anyone who is in this important phase of life. Talk to them. Encourage them. Discuss it with their parents on their behalf, convince them. Be the person you needed when you were younger. Do your best in saving someone from getting aboard a wrong train.
Because by this age you must have a clear idea, a few years later, it’d either be “amma abba nae maan rahay” or “mana lia, we’re getting married” (which is even worse lol), and in both cases, one needs to have a career to find refuge in.