By: Katwian Zetrenne
Each day, approximately 385,000 people are born worldwide. From a very young age, we are socialized into specific ways of thinking. Some of these ways of thinking enable us to be strong and strategic, and some may encourage us to play it safe and follow the crowd. As we grow, the things that influence our decisions play a significant role in how our lives turn out, specifically career choice and ideas around representations of success.
Many of us grew up in homes and communities where the definitions of success surround the idea of financial gain and esteem. For a long time, success wasn’t based on the idea of being happy and fulfilling one’s purpose. It’s the paradigm of attending college and obtaining a career like engineering, medicine, or even becoming a lawyer. It wasn’t until recently that idea surrounding success began to pivot and change the trajectory of how the world is being shaped.
As generations and people evolve, we see a shift in the mentality that success revolves around power, esteem, titles, and even monetary assets. While I believe we all would like to acquire these things, they are no longer the sole focus regarding the career paths that are being taken. While the generations are developing more self-awareness and efficacy, we are finally stepping outside our comfort zones and allowing ourselves to do things differently than ever before. Making career decisions based on passions and interests, aligning one’s higher self with the work we choose to do daily. Not conforming to societal standards of success by going to college just because our family tells us we should.
We are now seeing a large influx of young people, allowing their passions to fulfill their desires. While many still attend college and or have a full-time job, they live their lives in the balance, utilizing their time and money to create their version of success. These young people are writers, choreographers, YouTubers, TikTokers, IG influencers, artists, comedians, and so much more. These young people are stepping away from society's idea of “the same and secure” option of becoming a doctor. And allowing themselves to live daringly and create their businesses and brands catering to the audience they feel most connected to.
It’s been inspiring to see an influx of people doing things differently. It’s been hair-raising watching them take the risks. It’s been encouraging seeing the community of creatives, especially black and brown creatives, growing and retaining traction. If the generations before us have shown us anything, it’s how to go after what we want and create a way out of no way. I anticipate this current generation will teach the world that there are many different versions of success and that being creative is not just something fun to do as a hobby. But it is a way to the freedom that your success should be able to provide. Encouraging the generations after us that being a writer, filmmaker, choreographer, TikToker, graphic designer, or anything creative can and should be an option. So tomorrow, when 385,000 babies are being born, ensure to encourage every one of them to create the success they want to see.
