“What if I acknowledge that what I truly desire is a modest, unhurried, uncomplicated life? A lovely, serene, gentle existence. I believe that is sufficient.” ~Krista O’Reilly-Davi-Digui
Why do we feel such a compulsion to aspire for grand dreams? It often starts in our childhood when we’re repeatedly asked, “What do you wish to become when you mature?” This inquiry carries certain assumptions. Across various contexts—school, home, or community—you hear the responses of others and make comparisons. If you observe closely, you’ll see how these replies transform as children develop.
For young children, responses mirror their immediate environment: a girl might envision herself as a mother; a boy, a police officer. As they mature, the ambitions evolve—pre-teens may set their sights on becoming teachers or detectives, and teenagers could picture careers as singers or athletes.
However, in early adulthood, answers frequently become restricted to professions like doctors, lawyers, or engineers. The main driving force here is financial independence and its significance.
At some stage, we discover the influence of money, which guides our ambitions and lifestyles. In my region, educators steer students toward lucrative career paths rather than less profitable ones. It suggests that wealth paves the way in life—a belief many come to realize isn’t wholly accurate, yet it may not change their aspirations.
Be it a physician, educator, artist, or business owner, dreams frequently extend beyond mere comforts to luxurious houses, numerous high-end vehicles, and toned bodies. Even a simple walk turns into a task of counting steps and calories. Financial independence transcends fundamental needs, evolving into a relentless chase alongside employment and side gigs.
With the emergence of happiness coaches and vision boards, aspirations are becoming uniform with anticipated outcomes. Vision boards worldwide often reflect similarities despite varied backgrounds; they emphasize material wealth, luxury, and idealized appearances.
We all seem to chant the same affirmations of prosperity. Seldom do vision boards emphasize patience, compassion, contentment, or community support. Such boards may exist, but they are rare.
We have the freedom to dream as we please. You can aspire simply and still find value in those wishes. Simplicity does not equate to idleness or a lack of belief. An ideal life can include cycling all around, wearing thrifted clothing, cultivating a garden, and prioritizing companionship over appearances.
If you’re satisfied with fundamental belongings, embrace your authentic body, and value uncomplicated joys like local adventures, you’re not compromising. Present-day financial hardship shouldn’t equate to deficiency in other life aspects.
Your value isn’t linked to material wealth or elite education. Determine what matters to you but remain open to changes over time and across life’s stages. Existence consists of both growth and reduction; all moments hold significance.
About Muthoni Amran: Muthoni lives in coastal Kenya, teaching Mandarin Chinese and indulging in reading, walking, and the art of living.
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