For some people, those dreams and hopes come to reality, but for others, it does not. For some it comes fast, for some it comes late.
The annoying part is that there are so many expectations around your life, from family, friends, and society.
To be frank, these things sometimes make it look like life is unfair, rewarding only certain kinds of people and punishing others.
For most people aged 20 and above, according to plans, they should have had their lives figured out, but most times, it doesn't happen that way.
Personally, I thought that before 25, I would be married, have kids, a flourishing business, and a car or two.
But where I am currently is not near any of those things, and it's not as if I have not been putting in the work.
Truth be told, many at this phase give up or indulge in all kinds of things to measure up due to the pressure that comes with the disappointment.
You look around and see your friends and peers achieving their goals, getting nice jobs, owning properties, and getting married, but you are in one spot still trying to figure things out.
In Africa, many at this point will begin to ask questions and start putting blame on one thing or another, especially family curses, bad luck, and so on, as the cause of their problems.
As much as I believe that those things exist, I don't think it's wise to always think that the reason things are not in place for us is tied to our background.
There are many who are successful out there who came from a worse background than yours; what can you say about them?
Sometimes I feel like this thing is just timing, just like the fruits on a tree; they develop on the same tree, but they ripen at different times.
There's a tendency to feel hurt and discouraged, but we must learn never to let our disappointments to discourage us.
Unless, one stops putting in the work, there's hope of getting to the end. It might not come at the time we want, but if we don't quit, we will reach the finish line too.
I will not tell anyone that time is irrelevant in figuring our lives; it is very crucial. The older you get, the more your days are numbered on this side and the less your strength becomes, so being worried is understandable, but don't let it overwhelm you.
Honestly, there's no greater joy than having things figured out while you are still young; you will have enough time to pursue destiny and purpose.
However, if yours doesn't come on time, take it slow, be patient, and keep going. It may tarry, but wait until it comes; in the end, two things are involved: you either die, or you will make it.
Anyone that occurs, let it be that in the end you have tried and not that you gave up.
My kind advice to everyone still trying to figure things out is: avoid comparison, avoid the trend and the noise, and focus on building yourself. Everyone has their time to shine; don't beat yourself too hard, just keep working.
