A troubling contradiction exists within our society: the disparity between how we view success and failure when it comes to pursuing unconventional careers or dreams. It is disheartening to observe that the same endeavour is often praised in one instance and criticised in another, depending on external factors such as family support or societal perception.
Take, for instance, the pursuit of music as a career. When an individual achieves success in this field with the active support of their family, society hails their efforts as a remarkable talent. However, when someone else follows the same path without familial backing, they are often subjected to harsh criticism. Society, in such cases, is quick to dismiss their choices as inappropriate or unworthy, revealing a glaring double standard.
A similar pattern is evident when considering women pursuing careers in sports or other non-traditional fields. Those who are fortunate enough to have familial encouragement are often celebrated and viewed as role models. On the other hand, women who lack such support face immense resistance and judgement, not only from their own families but also from the broader community.
This raises a crucial question: where does the real problem lie? Is it the inherent hypocrisy of society that values success over effort, or is it the inability of certain families to support and empower their children to follow their dreams?
The root cause perhaps lies in both areas. Families, as the foundational unit of support, play a critical role in shaping an individual’s confidence and resilience. Meanwhile, society must learn to celebrate the courage to pursue one’s passions, irrespective of circumstances or outcomes. Only by addressing these intertwined issues can we create an environment where individuals are free to pursue their dreams without fear of judgement or discrimination.
Sahiba Jalal
Chitral
