Ever since I was a child, I always wanted to be a published author. As I read books, I imagined my name written on the title page. I wish for the day when I will be introduced to a crowd of book lovers, and people will queue to have me sign their copies. Secretly, I think of situations when I am looking for any title in a bookstore, and some random person will recognize me and burst in excitement, "OMG, you're the one who wrote this title!" while waving a book in front of my face.
It's a childhood dream that has lingered with me for a long time. All wishes remain except for the part when I am introduced in front of a crowd. I realize how awkward I am in front of people and how uncomfortable it will be.
Photo by Anika Huizinga on Unsplash
We do everything in our ability in pursuit of our dreams. I have a classmate in college who is very fixated on landing a job as a manager in the fast food industry, and he made it! I also know of college friends whose desire is to get married to foreigners and make it abroad. Guess what? They also got what they wanted! It's a matter of mindset, hard work, and dedication.
But is getting what you've always wanted all there is? I've heard of stories of successful people who made it to the top but find the spot still lacking. Top management says it's a little empty and lonely up there. There are also stories from the filthy rich saying that even with too much money at their disposal, they still have episodes of wanting and searching.
I wonder if being a successful published author will make me completely fulfilled as a person.
Then it dawned on me. While walking home, I realized that I am at my happiest with every article, every blog, every devotional, and every manuscript that I write. I feel glad whenever I hit publish on digital platforms. Being a published author is the destination. It is the product of countless articles and "hit publish" actions.
The journey is more important than the destination. If the journey doesn't bring out the best in me, reaching the finish line will not matter much. If I can't find fulfillment in the pursuit, the peak will not be too fulfilling.
Reaching the peak feels more like a reward for those who enjoy the journey. However, it feels more like just a stopover if you find no purpose in the journey.
Don't let reaching your destination be a never-ending pursuit.