The Internet was once dubbed the information superhighway. But what happens when the saying ‘the grass isn’t always greener on the other side’ is pushed to its extreme?
In today’s world, we can access information from every corner of the globe at any moment. So, why bother with jobs or making money? Why strive and repeatedly stumble in pursuit of the ideal life we’ve been promised? Is it all a construct of complex systems beyond our grasp, or simply the unpredictability of life?
It seems our parents’ generation was perhaps the last to truly grasp how to rebound from setbacks and maintain hope for the future. There was, however slight, a belief that better opportunities existed elsewhere.
Gen-Z faces the tough task of re-evaluating failure and identifying its culprits. Nowadays, it’s easier to attribute personal flaws to institutional failures, especially while adhering to empathy and open-mindedness in a world where self-interest prevails.
Failure is a mere bump on life’s journey, a challenge where we must strengthen bonds with each other and ourselves. We should build a community highlighting aspects of our identity obscured by modern times. Constantly, adversities and distractions tempt us to ignore reality, while forces seek to unravel us.
In overcoming failure, it’s not anyone’s duty to decode the psychological barriers we didn’t choose. Instead, it’s crucial to understand our reality, practice self-compassion, and focus on recovery or seeking help to improve our circumstances.
I often reflect on school since structured full-time work beyond my initial dishwashing job hasn’t been my path. By 2025, I recognize my journey: two degrees, writing achievements, editorial roles — acknowledgment. Success arose from failure, and I’ve learned to view failure as simply the unattainable for now. Journalism is about recognizing and discussing problems, inspiring collective solutions, and applying this approach to my life and career unveiled unexpected answers.
The struggle persists, as the world favors the loud over the empathetic. At times, adult failures make me feel like a child wanting to retreat because others aren’t playing fair, and the referee is indifferent. Yet, it’s possible to overcome this, since there must be a future, whether it’s a new game, a different referee, or supportive teammates to bolster you.
wknd@khaleejtimes.com
