My teacher, my mentor

Throughout my life, I was always being advised to become bold and confident. But this seemed nearly impossible. I was an introverted person and sometimes couldn’t express my intrusive thoughts and feelings. It has happened a lot of times that I wanted to participate in any of the competitions, but because of my shyness, I have made it unachievable.

It felt so difficult to face anyone. I would always think that people would laugh at me. My mum always scolded me and said that she was so disappointed in me. I almost lost hope of being assertive, I didn’t even have self-confidence. One day, a person changed my whole life.

She was my teacher in the 10th class. She taught us our importance and told us that to live successfully in the world, we need to make our place for ourselves. She inspired us, and because of her, I gained most of my confidence. Right after that, I participated in dozens of competitions and won many of them. I am so grateful that I had a teacher like her.

Umme Abeeha Shah,
13 years, Karachi

Recognise yourself!
With so many distractions and pressures around us, it can be really hard to figure out who you are. But the one who truly understands themselves is the one who can also see others. You wouldn’t get on a bus without knowing its route — in the same way, self-awareness is the key that helps you understand your direction in life. Take some time to ask yourself: What truly motivates me?

For example, if your passion is singing but you’re working as an engineer, you may give your best to the job, but it’s unlikely that you’ll bring out your best and remain satisfied for it doesn’t align with your passion. And this is the reason many people feel stuck in careers that feel like cages, unable to reach their full potential.

Moreover, the pressure from parents to choose a path they want without ever asking what their child truly wants is another problem that makes youngsters lose their interest in professional growth. A child should be allowed to follow the rhythm of their own desires; only then will they give their best.

Erum Mubashir,
Karachi

A lesson learnt

This is regarding the story “A lesson learnt” by Muhammad Hussain Saeed (YW March 22). The story highlighted that our parents always guide us in the right direction. If they forbid us from something, we should respect their opinion.

Disobeying our parents can lead us into trouble. Without their guidance, we may choose the wrong path, one that could ruin our lives.

Bilal Haider,
Tando Jam

Published in Dawn, Young World, June 6th, 2025