Three Lessons I've Learned from the Past

I used to believe that when you get a well-paid job, then you become successful in whatever field you are in. That was my definition of "success". That had been stuck in my head for several years. In order to reach success, I had been trying to be the best student in class. Always trying to be perfect. Either got a perfect mark, or the highest mark in the class was the source of my happiness. Can you imagine doing nothing all day but studying? I had done that all three years in my senior high school.

Without a doubt, I lost a lot of things. I didn't join any clubs. I didn't show up often for family union events. I didn't participate many of the social events. I confined myself in textbooks.

I started to realize that the way of my learning was totally wrong. I wish I could do things differently by the following:

Life is not all about Studying or Working

When you are working all day long, after 6-7 hours of working, it's probably manifest that you are not as efficient as the first one or two hours. Why not take a break, go somewhere else, change the scenery around you, in that way, you will be motivated again and you might even get inspiration while you are taking a break.

A 36-year-old, well-paid computer engineer once confessed that all the money he made doesn't mean much to him, since he doesn't have the time to spend it, and he doesn't have a partner to share the joy with. He worked hard all his life, but the emptiness still exist. Happiness doesn't always come from the money or property you own. Certainly, you probably won't be happy, if you lack money. I believe that you can find happiness if you feel it with your whole heart, even little things can be the source of your happiness.  

Learn how to Solve Problems is Way More Important than Memorize the Content 

Oftentimes we study the textbook, and memorize the important facts, equations, or formulas. However, that's merely following the instructions without processing the true meaning behind it. I used to study textbooks without questioning their authentication, or what's the real purpose of learning this chapter. In order to learn more effectively, having some pauses in between chapters is necessary. Pause and think about what you get out of the chapter. Think about how you can use this method to solve problems in the future.

Have Your Own Ideas and Opinions, instead of Following Instructions Blindfolded

I was so used to do what I was told to do. Follow my parents and teachers' instructions, nothing could go wrong, since they were more experienced than I was. The mistake was I have to live my life not them. If I just simply do what they say, I am the one who is responsible for the decision at the end of the day not them.   Others' opinions can be important to certain level, but you have to think the whole thing carefully and understand what you want to do the most. 

There are so many successful people's stories and the path they went through. If we choose to follow their path instead of coming up with our own, we are reliving their lives! Be brave and courageous to start your own journey, and explore what's suitable and can benefit yourself the most!