Our history often shapes itself into a part of our identity. We judge humanity using the mistakes it has made in the past, and we have changed our world in the present to make sure that these mistakes do not repeat themselves. However, we have also learned that while we can judge mankind for its past behaviour as a collective body, for an individual, we can never assume that their past is the only truth about who they are in the present, especially in the case of the youth. This is why even the legal system has been arranged in a manner that ensures that juvenile offenders are rehabilitated instead of punished, and can lead a normal, happy life in the future.
Regardless of this fact, we often find ourselves judging our own abilities based on what we could and could not do in the past. We use our own mistakes to determine the extent of our abilities, often underestimating ourselves quite severely. We are often told that the only obstacle to our success is our own mind. To our amazement, we find that there are quite a few other factors affecting whether or not we achieve something. Nevertheless, there is some truth that lies in this statement. This is because strangely, how we see ourselves in the past can play the role of a rather large obstacle to the process of developing a very important skill – decision making.
A very important aspect of decision making is considering what was done in previous attempts and examining the outcomes. If we had previously made a choice that resulted in a poor outcome, then we would not select this option again. As young people, however, making choices involves factoring in the effect that our own capabilities and skill-level had on the outcome as well. For instance, you may have participated in an essay competition last year and failed to receive any prizes. This year, when you are presented with the option of participating in another essay competition you would not refuse it because you failed last year. Instead, you would grab the opportunity and give your best because you know that you have improved and become better.
Developing one’s decision making skills is imperative in the path to success. This is because while we do grow up and become better, our decisions are the only way by which we can gauge the extent of our personal development. Making the right decisions will help to make opportunities more accessible, and move us closer to the goals that we wish to achieve.
The link between a bumpy road in the past and a successful future is persevering in the present. However, in order to persevere, we must first make decisions that are worthy of placing effort into.
If we would like to become a generation that is skilled in solving problems through efficient decision making, then we must make a culture of celebrating the mistakes of our pasts that we have had the courage to correct.
Renika Anand is currently a student at Marian Academy.
