We all have higher expectations for ourselves in life, but do we ever meet them? Growing up, education was strongly encouraged; I can still hear my mother's adage for academic excellence echo in my mind: "dumb people don't live in this house"! One could only imagine how serious I took the thought of being disowned by my own mother for having more than three answers wrong on any test - and if your mom is from yaa'd (the Caribbean) you know the endless bitchin' that may ensue up to several days for whatever you did or didn't do up to... EXPECTATIONS! LOL!
The idea of even taking a year off after graduating high school to self-reflect on what I was truly passionate about was quickly shot down and dismissed by my father. For him, taking a break without clear direction was not moving forward, and that for every successful person that's ballin' out of control had a working foundation of business to say the very least. So naturally, he convinced me into taking business in college in the meantime while I figured out my career goals in my head. Believe me I wasn't thrilled, but I've always been a practical person on how time is spent, so I figured learning business would've been difficult, but it wasn't pointless. These days, survival of the fittest heavily relies on how you market yourself - just in case you don't have friends in high places.
Ex: When people see your face or read your name on a sheet of paper will people assume (prejudge) you as a person of class and professionalism? Or will they fail to differentiate you from any other Jack or Jane. In other words - will they be able trust you now that they know of you, indirectly.
A name that comes with years of experience and education may get you qualified to sit at the table, but most of the time it is charisma that will keep you there. And charisma can't be taught. It is a trait that is so individualistic to a person, it can only be sensed instinctively. It is the only human trait that appeals to the 6th sense we all possess that works beyond rationale. For better or for worse.
After earning a certificate in marketing and pursuing a career in television production, I fell into a situation that overwhelmed my 6th sense so much that I dropped my own expectations for myself, and it had a lasting effect: I didn't graduate from college with honours as I set out to do when I first went on to higher education. And it really bothers me.
I used to scoff at the idea of obtaining a degree or masters because I felt that life had so much to offer in learning from real experiences, as oppose to books. And from a practical perspective I do cosign on that - 'cause "if it don't make money, it don't make sense". Call it ego if you want, but now, all that I know, do and want to become I want recognition. Not to boast to others, but to feel that sense of accomplishment after 5 years of blood, sweat and tears (many tears) in college.
I'm not perfect, and I'm don't feel entitled to anything in life - 'cause even love, respect, and power has to be earned - but I do know that this failing of my own academic excellence has humbled me. Humbled so much to want to surpass my shortcomings and STAY FOCUSED! Yeah, I know... easier said than done.
Well, I've never been afraid of hard work, and in a few years time, when I return to school to earn my post-grad., I'm won't stop. Even if it takes me until I'm 70, Isis Wisdom will have her masters in film production and philosophy, if not doctorate degree. And I'll earn them all with honours.
DA JIST: Dream big, follow through and STAY FOCUSED! Don't be so complacent in your situation and get out of your comfort zone. CHALLENGE YOURSELF to achieve great things! And most importantly... NO ONE IS PERFECT, so don't be afraid to make mistakes, and learn from them when you do.
Peace Brothas & Sistas
