To live is to dream, and what better time to dream when still finding yourself?
The “Teenage Dream” lurking and calling our name, artists highlighting its prominence and parents yelling at us for craving the experience. Yet, it is all simply a facade, a way to criticise beauty within, and restrict us from experience.
It is a universally spoken language that despite our greatest triumphs in the academic field, it is natural that all of us will want to be accepted through some form, the idea most definitely becomes more prominent throughout college! One way that may shine could be through academics and striving for the best score as self-satisfaction. Others may just want to receive love in its purest platonic form and find friends who understand them. Yet, for me, the “Teenage Dream” seemed so close yet so far away through the craving for validation, like silk slipping through my fingers. Such dreams could not exist in my world, for I couldn’t figure where I should silently sleep amongst the crowd. Seeking love and acceptance in the pages of books I’d read, was what I dreamed of; but seemed so conflicting with upholding my family’s expectations.
The pursuit for new friends, a cup of coffee, and for the workload to just stop; it is then we’ll truly know that the rise and fall of the upcoming academic year has begun. Some of us may be newcomers, and some will just want to go home. In which case, all opinions are valid! But to make effective use of the little time we have here, it’s a clever idea to take good care of yourself too!
The “Teenage Dream” looks to exploit us at our weakest and antagonize us in our prime, yet the glory of change and ambition is widely sought after, ignoring the truckload of expectations being thrown at you. Yet, we cling to concepts of eternal youth and grasp onto a childlike persona after wishing we could all grow up so fast.
Therefore, these are some things you could do instead of writhing in self-doubt and insecurity:
- Write a love letter to your 13-year-old self. They might need it more than you’ll think!
- Read something uplifting that makes you smile and optimistic for the future.
- Smile at someone you walk by today, we’re all here to help each other!
- Lastly, remind yourself that you are worthy and capable. You will conquer this year and remain victorious!
(Photo reference, taken by myself!)