Chapter 1: The Awakening Moment

One morning, I woke up and thought, "Enough of this nonsense."

Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash

Why put myself through this? You come into this world, live your life, and eventually pass away. You set goals and work tirelessly, yet it often feels like you're getting nowhere. On some days, I feel incredibly motivated—those are the days I can’t stop writing, as if a fire has been lit within me. Even during moments of paralysis, I still push myself to rise each day and create.

However, there are times when I just don't want to write anymore. The old me would have easily given up by now, but I’ve developed a different approach when these feelings arise. We often strive for constant happiness, but that's unrealistic. We can learn to love and accept ourselves, but it doesn't mean we'll never experience emotions other than joy throughout our lives.

The urge to quit isn’t exempt from this experience. No matter how passionate you are about something, there will be moments when you simply don't feel like continuing. You may work hard towards your objectives, but at times, progress can feel stagnant. That rational part of you may suggest giving up.

Don’t heed that voice. It's a distraction. I've realized that feeling this way is a normal part of life. During such times, I remind myself that these feelings are temporary. I don't force myself to write if I don't want to; I let those darker days unfold, while assuring myself they will pass. It's not permanent—it's simply a part of life.

I will be okay. Soon enough, I find myself back at the keyboard. Honestly, I feel off when I don’t write for too long. Yet, there are instances when the urge to give up lingers too long. Recently, I went a whole week without writing—not due to a creative block—I don’t believe in those. I always have something to say; I just lacked the desire to express it. It felt exhausting, like it was all pointless. The thought of stopping was tempting.

But one thing stopped me: my goals. When I’m overwhelmed by despair and ready to throw in the towel, I remember what I’m striving for. I’ve documented my ambitions and crafted a clear path to achieve them. Whenever I contemplate quitting, I revisit that list. At the top is my aim to become a full-time writer in five years or less. Surrendering now would make that impossible.

I must endure, no matter the challenges, as I believe it will pay off in the end. This is what I tell myself. Gradually, my inner fire reignites, and I regain my passion for turning my dreams into reality. What could possibly go wrong if I give up? While my goals generally help fend off thoughts of surrender, sometimes they just don't suffice.

There are days when I feel so detached that my ambitions no longer inspire me. Why keep pushing myself? Stopping would be so much simpler. In those moments, only one thing can pull me back to reality: a vivid replay of my future, resembling a tragic movie, showing the worst possible outcome.

I envision a life filled with regret for not pursuing my goals fully. I see myself in despair, harboring resentment toward myself and the world. This unsettling vision of my future self terrifies me.

Even now, I regret not starting my journey sooner. The fear of failure and a series of bad habits held me back for a long time. I’m a much better person now, but occasionally, I recall my past misery, and it’s hard to bear. If I give up today, how will I feel two decades from now? It would surely be one of the worst days of my life.

When I remind myself that this is the future awaiting me, thoughts of surrender vanish, and I return to working on my future.

As I write this, I almost considered stopping altogether. But then I remembered that bleak future where I drift through life without purpose. It was a chilling thought. I pen this as a reminder to myself to keep going.

Something to keep in mind: Never give up.

I understand this is easier said than done. However, over time, pursuing our goals is far more fulfilling than abandoning them. The journey toward achieving your objectives is what life is all about. It strengthens you, makes you wiser, and helps you become a better person.

Give your best effort. Chase your dreams. Work on your goals. Embrace life's challenges. Rest when you're weary. Cry, laugh, and experience all emotions. But don’t quit. One day, it will all be worthwhile, and you’ll look back at this moment with gratitude for persevering.

Even if you don’t achieve the success you envision, you won’t regret giving it your all. So keep pushing forward. I believe in you. Now it’s time for you to believe in yourself.

Chapter 2: The Path Forward