Choices! What will it be? #59

Welcome, beautiful lady.
I am excited to have you here once again on this journey of choices. This week's contest contains one of the choicest topics to choose from. Left for me alone, I would have written on every single one of them. There is so much to share, my lady. However, I have decided to settle on PATH.

In the literal sense, a path refers to a road you follow to arrive at a physical location. It could be the road that leads you to your school, workplace or home.

Metaphorically, it means a course of action someone takes to attain a goal. For instance, if I follow the path of righteous, it means I choose to live a godly life to please my creator.

Paths lead us to the places or goals we desire to reach.

In life, you would often get to the crossroads where you have to make a decision either to get educated, marry a spouse, pursue a career or join a particular line of business. When you make that choice, you are said to have chosen the path you want your life to follow.

People often make mistakes when choosing a path. Sometimes due to ignorance, peer pressure or economic crises. Following the wrong path can be disastrous. Not only will it give you zero sense of fulfilment but it also leaves you with scars you end up carrying all your life.

Quite a number of individuals have been cut off in their prime because they "lost their way." They realised so late that they have been following the wrong path all along. You see this happening around you when people choose to indulge in crime, or venture into low-income trades or careers. In worst case scenarios, young people marry the wrong partner who takes pleasure in making their lives a living hell. In the news, there are several stories about many great beauties who have fallen flat because they said "yes" to the beast. So many businesses have collapsed because their owners missed the path that could lead them to success. As seen in these examples, the wrong path could lead one to their doom.

It is simple. As the captain of your life, you could steer your ship whenever you please. It's all about choosing the right path. Before choosing any path, I'd suggest you consider the following:

1. Identify your end goal
End goals are the North star that points you to the direction you are heading to. Before choosing any path, I'd advise you take some time to identify your ultimate destination. Ask yourself questions like, “What you I want to achieve in the long run?” An example is making your thrift clothing business a global brand.

Setting SMART goals also helps you define your aspirations clearly. Always remember that there can be multiple paths leading to a similar goal. The key is to choose a path that aligns with your values, skills, and brings you a sense of fulfilment.

2. Discover yourself
Choosing the right path requires you to deeply understand yourself. This means reflecting on your strengths, weaknesses, and passions. There are things you are naturally good at, or others you are truly passionate about. Explore different options, volunteer, intern, attend webinars or seminars, etc Discovering yourself helps you make informed decisions about your path.

Life rarely follows a straight line. Sometimes, even the most well-laid plans need adjustments. If you realise you are on the wrong path, do not be discouraged. Remember, it is okay to change course as you learn and grow. Every path you choose is yours to define. Choose one that leads you towards a fulfilling and successful future.

I invite @ahbaz and @yhudy to participate in @patjewell's contest

_{Written by @ukpono on 23 May 2024}

_{All images from Canva}