The Hidden Cost of Abandoned Dreams: A Nigerian Perspective

# The Hidden Cost of Abandoned Dreams: A Nigerian Perspective As a product designer who recently rekindled my passion for digital illustrations, I find myself reflecting on a pivotal moment from my childhood. Growing up in Nigeria, I was that kid with an ever-present sketchpad, furiously scribbling away and crafting my own comic universes. My artistic pursuits weren't just a hobby; they were a core part of my identity, fueling my creativity and shaping my worldview. Then, tragedy struck. In a moment that's seared into my memory, my father ripped apart my beloved comics and sketchpad. His reasoning? I needed to "focus on academics." It was a well-intentioned act, born from a desire to see me succeed, but it came at a significant cost. This experience isn't unique to me. Countless adults in Nigeria today carry similar scars – dreams abandoned, passions smothered, all in the name of conforming to parental and societal standards of success. It's a cultural phenomenon that prioritizes certain career paths and life choices over others, often at the expense of individual fulfillment and potential. The impact of this mindset is far-reaching: 1. **Stifled Creativity**: When we discourage artistic pursuits, we risk dampening the innovative spirit that drives progress in all fields. 2. **Mental Health Consequences**: Suppressing one's true passions can lead to feelings of regret, unfulfillment, and even depression later in life. 3. **Limited Economic Diversity**: By funneling talent into a narrow range of "acceptable" professions, we miss opportunities to develop thriving creative industries. 4. **Loss of Cultural Expression**: Art, in all its forms, is a powerful medium for preserving and evolving culture. When we lose artists, we lose a part of our cultural identity. It's crucial to recognize that success isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. The world needs doctors and engineers, but it also needs artists, writers, musicians, and dreamers. By embracing a more holistic view of success – one that values personal fulfillment alongside financial stability – we can nurture a generation of Nigerians who are not only successful but also truly happy. As for me, rediscovering my passion for illustration has been a journey of healing and self-rediscovery. It's a reminder that it's never too late to reconnect with our abandoned dreams. To all the Nigerian children (and adults) out there with a burning passion: don't let it be extinguished. Your dreams are valid, your art matters, and your unique voice deserves to be heard.I am glad the Gen Z's are breaking out of the norm and embracing different career paths..like content creating 😂 . Let's work towards a Nigeria where creativity is celebrated, where diverse paths to success are acknowledged, and where every child feels empowered to pursue their passions. It's time to rewrite the narrative of success – one dream at a time.

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