Young people today are a generation brimming with dreams and aspirations, eager to make their mark on the world. Yet, their journey towards realising these dreams is often hindered by a complex interplay of societal expectations, educational challenges, and personal doubts. As they navigate the complexities of modern life, young people face a multitude of questions: Should they prioritize their passions or academic success? How can they balance parental expectations with their own aspirations? And how can they overcome the numerous obstacles that stand in their way?
One of the most pressing challenges facing young people is the increasing pressure to conform to societal norms. Parents and educators often prioritize academic achievement, encouraging students to pursue traditional career paths like medicine, law, or engineering. While these fields offer stability and financial security, they may not align with a young person’s true passions. As a result, many young people feel torn between their desire to follow their hearts and the expectations of others.
Youngster are filled with dreams, aspirations, and a boundless sense of possibility. They have a future and a dream where they can make a difference, pursue their passions, and achieve their goals. However, their dream and their journey towards realising these are often fraught with educational challenges that can hinder their progress.
Young people often face the dilemma of prioritising their dreams or focusing on academic pursuits to secure a well-paying job. Both are important, but it is confusing to decide whether to prioritize studies or dreams.
Another concern is whether the current dynamic education system will ultimately lead to happiness, or if taking a risk to pursue personal dreams would be more fulfilling.
Young people today face many difficult decisions. Parents often prioritise their children’s education, even if it means personal sacrifice. However, some young people question this traditional approach, wondering if it is necessary to conform to expectations.
However, we worry about how our parents might react if we prioritize our dreams over traditional education. Will they be disappointed or even resent us for making our own choice?
How can young people prove their worth to their parents when life presents unexpected opportunities, even after promising to pursue higher education?
Is a higher degree certificate truly necessary for achieving a high- paying job? It is incredibly difficult for young people to navigate life’s challenges when they lack trust and support from their parents. Young people yearn for their parent’s support, even when they make mistakes. They want to be understood and encouraged, not judge, and dismissed.
A little support from parents’ can goes a long way in helping young people overcome obstacles and prove their potential. Can this courage and determination convince parents to reconsider their expectations?
Some families face financial difficulties, yet parents still push their children to excel academically. While we understand their intentions, it is important to acknowledge the sacrifices and struggles of young people who are trying to balance their studies with other opportunities.
Many older people offer advice and opinions, but should we always prioritize their suggestions over our own judgement? While it is beneficial to seek advice from elders, it is important to remember that not all advice is applicable to our unique situation.
Sometimes, young people must make their own decision, even if it means risking failure or success. Ultimately, will our parents be happy if we choose a different path, one that leads to our own happiness and fulfilment.
I would like to conclude with that to every young person standing at the crossroads of dreams and expectations: remember that your journey is your own. Education is important, it opens doors, builds discipline, and creates opportunities but it is not the only measure of your worth or success. Your dreams, passions, and inner calling matter just as much.
It is natural to feel confused, pressured, or afraid of disappointing those you love. Parents often push education because they want security and stability for your future, not because they doubt your abilities. Yet, your happiness and fulfilment should never be sacrificed entirely for approval. True success is not only found in degrees or high-paying jobs, but in living a life that feels meaningful to you.
Believe in your potential, even when others hesitate. Mistakes, failures, are part of growth, they do not define you, they shape you. Have the courage to communicate your dreams, work hard to prove your dedication, and remain responsible for the choices you make. When dreams are backed by discipline, effort, and integrity, they earn respect over time.
Seek guidance, but trust your judgement. Learn from elders, but do not lose your own voice. Most importantly, never stop believing that you deserve support, understanding, and the chance to become who you are meant to be.
Your path may be different but if it leads to purpose, growth, and happiness, then it is a path worth walking.
Ruth Thapa
Friday, January 16, 2026