# Is the Notion of 'Pursuing Your Dreams' Only for the Fortunate?
Written on
Chapter 1: The Allure of Following Dreams
Hello everyone! Lately, I've been contemplating a notion that's been presented to us since childhood — the timeless advice to "pursue your dreams." It sounds fantastic, right? Who wouldn’t want to earn a living doing what brings them joy?
However, as I delve deeper into this idea, I can't help but notice a subtle caveat accompanying the phrase "follow your dreams." In essence, while it’s great to chase after your aspirations, there are often conditions tied to it. Today, we’ll explore whether this advice is genuinely applicable to everyone or just a shimmering ideal for the privileged few.
Let’s start with a reality check. Personally, I’ve found that my dreams don’t exactly cover my living expenses. As much as I’d love to make a career out of sampling every ice cream flavor imaginable, my landlord remains insistent about the rent. Strange, isn’t it? Like many of you, I suspect your financial obligations also remain indifferent to your aspirations. This is where that subtle asterisk enters the conversation. The stark truth is that not everyone enjoys the luxury of taking risks, diving into their passions, and dismissing the fear of failure.
This isn’t meant to dampen anyone's enthusiasm. Dreams are inspiring; they ignite our creativity, provide purpose, and sometimes even materialize. If you’re fortunate enough to turn your passion into a source of income, that’s fantastic! Yet, it’s essential to recognize that not everyone starts from the same point.
Consider this example: a college graduate, let’s call him Sam, has always aspired to be a writer. He possesses a remarkable talent for storytelling, but his family struggles to make ends meet, and he’s burdened with student loans that seem insurmountable. Consequently, he opts for a stable job at an IT company. Now, contrast Sam with Alex, another aspiring writer whose family can financially support him while he develops his skills. Two individuals with similar dreams, yet one has a significantly clearer path. This disparity embodies the privilege we’re discussing.
But let’s shake things up a bit. Does this mean that those without privilege cannot pursue their dreams? Absolutely not! It simply indicates that the journey may be a bit more… what’s the term I’m looking for? Oh yes, intricate.
So, for those like Sam, should you abandon your dreams? Definitely not! It may be wiser to approach your aspirations strategically. Perhaps you can dedicate your weekends or evenings to your passion. You could self-publish online, maintain a blog, connect with other writers, or seek freelance opportunities. It will undoubtedly be challenging, and there will be times when you feel overwhelmed. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to progress at a manageable pace. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and dreams don’t always have to be pursued in an all-or-nothing manner.
Some of you might be wondering, "Doesn’t this dilute the essence of 'following your dreams'?" To that, I would respond — perhaps it does, or perhaps it doesn’t. Dreams can coexist with practicality and reality. It’s all about striking a balance — and a bit of multitasking can be beneficial.
Before we conclude, let’s revisit the concept of privilege. It’s a sensitive topic, to be sure. However, acknowledging privilege isn’t about laying blame or inciting guilt. It’s about recognizing that we all have different starting points in the race of life. The more we understand this, the more we can strive to create a fairer playing field for everyone.
In summary, the phrase "follow your dreams" isn’t a universal statement. It exists along a spectrum influenced by individual circumstances, resources, and opportunities. But it’s also not an all-or-nothing proposition. Even if you can’t fully pursue your dreams, it doesn’t mean you can’t chase them at all.
So, to all the Sams out there, keep your chin up! Your path may be winding, with its share of detours and obstacles, but it’s still a journey towards your dream. Take your time, progress at your own pace, and remember — your dream and your journey are defined solely by you.
And to the Alexes, your privilege doesn’t undermine your hard work or passion. However, being aware of your privilege can foster empathy and generosity, potentially inspiring you to help create a more equitable environment.
Ultimately, the idea of "following your dreams" transcends being just a catchy phrase we see on mugs and T-shirts. It represents a complex journey that is as varied as we are. So, whether you’re pursuing your dreams full-time or carving out moments amidst a busy life, keep moving forward, keep dreaming, because the world needs your passion and creativity — with or without conditions.
Join me on Medium to dive into more enlightening articles! Sign up with my referral link and get started.
Oh, you made it to the end? You must be eager for more! Check out these fantastic reads because missing out is definitely not cool: