Imagine finally achieving your wildest dream. You’re in that moment; you hear people’s cheers, their claps, all while they congratulate you. They’re celebrating you and you see their smiles, feel their joy. You’ve attained success.
I remember experiencing such when I was able to achieve my dream in college. When I was in my first year in the University, I got into the organization I wanted. Ever since I entered, it was my goal to become one of its the Editorial Board (EB) members. However, I was stunted by my low self-esteem. I always had thoughts about not being enough to lead people, and I often worried about other people being better or more deserving of the job. I was also afraid to lose, especially since I know I would have worked so hard for it. Nevertheless, when I saw the next application for the EB race open, I immediately sent my letter of intent.
The process of becoming one of the EB in The LaSallian is no joke. One term filled with different sets of comprehensive exams and organizational tasks must be accomplished. You must prove to the incumbent EB members that you deserve to lead the organization. I knew I would have struggled in reaching my dream, but I still pursued it. I ran three times to become a member of the team. I cried after seeing every result.
The first time I ran, I noticed that I was not prepared. Before the names of the new officers came out, I already expected whose names would be there, and mine would not be one of them. Once I found out that I was right, I cried. I was consumed by my desires that I failed to focus on my vision to make the organization better. I was selfish, and when I was made aware of that, I worked harder.
I was fortunate that the position I wanted was available the second time I applied. Throughout the race, I knew I did my best, and I improved from the previous time I ran. I also noticed certain issues or systems, which could be focused on, and I highlighted it in my plans. However, it was not my time yet. I cried as it crushed my heart again once I found out I was a few points away from my dream—so I worked even harder.
I have always believed that everything happens for a reason. Coming up short twice helped me in understanding that it was not my turn yet. I was being prepared for something that is better for me. Moreover, the organization became my second home in the University, and I wanted everyone in the group to feel the same, which is why, for the third time, it enabled me to do my best in applying and improving my plans for the organization. The two positions of my choice were available, and I went for the opportunity. For the last time as well, I cried upon hearing the results. Tears of joy streamed down my face. My name was on the list this time. I made it.
It was difficult, but it was also worth it. No one knows what would happen next in life, but if you have the will to never give up, you will not be afraid of uncertainties knowing there is something to gain from every experience. Results may not be what you want at times, but it will be what you need. It may be a leap of faith, but you will not reach a thousand steps without taking the first step.
Additionally, the journey made me realize that it is not all about what you get at the end of the process. It is also about the relationships you build with people as you go through the steps of achieving your dreams. I began with the thought that my knowledge and skills will attract different opportunities in life, but I learned that my attitude and passion will be the ones that will help me reach them. If I had not been patient and had not changed, I would have been my same old self. I would not have served the organization with the best of my abilities, and I would not have become stronger.
I believe that success would be nothing if it were not for your past experiences. If it were not for the struggles, misfortunes, and failures, then I would have been stuck with my old self. The past teaches you various lessons and reminds us of the mistakes that we have done, so that we may not repeat it again. Without hard work, it would not be something to be proud of—it is not success. No matter where you go or what you do, the past makes you strong. If you acknowledge this, then the old will bring out the bold.
