The Truth Behind Society's Misleading Narratives
Written on
Chapter 1: The Illusion of Conventional Success
Don’t be fooled. Adopting the mindset of the majority will not yield extraordinary results.
Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash
Throughout my life as an athlete, my aspiration was to earn a living through my sport and compete in the Olympics. However, a serious injury cut that dream short.
Yet, my desire for freedom remained intact. If I had been able to earn money through my sport, it wouldn’t have felt like work. This quest for financial independence is still my primary goal.
My experience in sports taught me that with self-belief and relentless effort, almost anything is achievable. I never envisioned spending my days in an office, and that sentiment hasn’t changed. I refuse to be part of the 85% of individuals who are dissatisfied with their jobs.
What’s shocking? Research indicates that a staggering 85% of people are unhappy in their careers. For further insights, check this article:
The Harsh Reality of 9–5 Employment The data surrounding traditional jobs is disheartening.
Section 1.1: The Conventional Path
Upon concluding my sports career, I was repeatedly told: "Now you can finally pursue something sensible. Something secure."
This statement frustrated me because it implied that I should shift my focus to academics and secure a job that would confine me to a routine of trading my time for money over the next 45 years, ultimately enriching my employer.
For many, this seems to be the widely accepted definition of a sensible life choice, even if it means sacrificing personal dreams.
When I encountered a former teacher who echoed this sentiment, I felt a surge of anger. I inquired about her annual salary and her feelings towards her job. She revealed that she earned about $60,000 a year, found her job tolerable, and would recommend a similar path to me for its security, unlike the uncertain roads of athletics or entrepreneurship.
While I acknowledged her perspective, I countered that her income was likely capped at $60,000. She described her job as merely "tolerable," but not her dream career.
“If you don’t make sacrifices for your dreams, your dreams will become the sacrifice.”
Subsection 1.1.1: The Security Paradox
Job security is a double-edged sword. If you remain in a position you dislike simply for the paycheck, that "security" may protect you from downward spirals, but it also limits your potential for upward mobility—in both your finances and overall happiness.
Whether one should accept this reality is a personal decision. What astounds me is the societal consensus that this is a reasonable approach, while anything else is deemed risky.
However, perhaps the greatest risk of all is avoiding risks entirely. Always playing it safe can lead to regret.
Reflecting on the regrets of those nearing the end of their lives reveals further reasons to challenge conventional wisdom.
Common regrets include: - Wishing they had lived a life true to themselves, rather than fulfilling others' expectations. - Regretting excessive hard work. - Hoping they had chosen happiness more often.
Notably absent from these regrets are: - "I wish I had played it safer." - "I wish I had settled for a job that paid the bills but left me unfulfilled."
The Greatest Regrets of Dying Individuals – What Truly Matters …and how to steer clear of them
Section 1.2: My Aspirations
As mentioned, my desire is to achieve financial independence. Who wouldn’t want that?
I want to have control over my time and engage in pursuits that bring me joy, and I aim to do this as swiftly as possible. Life is finite, and I want to savor my freedom while in good health. Being the wealthiest person in a retirement home is not my ambition.
Chapter 2: The Right Advisors
Only heed advice from those whose lives you would envy.
I aspire to attain financial freedom at a young age. So why would I take advice from my 60-year-old teacher?
To me, seeking guidance from someone who hasn’t achieved their own goals is as illogical as asking an unfit person for health advice.
Thus, I studied young millionaires, and a notable pattern emerged. Few of them followed the traditional path of obtaining a Bachelor’s and then a Master’s before entering the workforce, laden with student debt. It appears that the conventional route may lead to wealth, but not necessarily at an early age. This is why the author MJ DeMarco refers to it as “The Slowlane.”
Most financially independent young people, who aren’t artists or athletes, are entrepreneurs. Many of them operate successful businesses online, which seems to be the most promising avenue for me.
Photo by Tyler Franta on Unsplash
Concluding Thoughts
I don’t intend to dictate life choices to anyone. Just as my teacher was unaware of my ambitions and couldn’t provide suitable advice, I can’t presume to know yours.
My aim is to encourage fundamental thinking—considering your goals and the means to attain them without being swayed by conventional expectations.
For some, the optimal path may involve obtaining a degree and securing a 9–5 job, while for others, entrepreneurship or a career in music may be more fitting.
Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts!
Before you go, consider subscribing to receive my articles directly in your inbox. If you’re interested in writing on Medium and earning money, I made $3,400 in my third month!
A membership is just $5 a month, and signing up via my link supports me without any extra cost to you.
You might also enjoy these articles:
Are Women Actually Hypergamous By Nature? Exploring women's desires for financially stable partners.
How Social Media Harms Our Mental Health The importance of disconnecting from our devices.
Why Bad Boys Are Irresistible to Women Insights into their appeal and what we can learn.
Chapter 2: The Biggest LIE Society Taught YOU
In this enlightening video, discover the misconceptions society instills in us and how they can hinder your true potential.
Chapter 3: The Greatest Deception About Motherhood
This thought-provoking video delves into the societal myths surrounding motherhood and challenges conventional beliefs.