Working towards a dream

After a more than three-month break, the semester has started!

These are the units I'm currently taking:

I'm so glad I get to study economics (again) and international retailing. Something new!

I've been looking forward to the new semester to start. I love summer breaks, but I hate not having to use my brain as much. Sometimes, I think, when I do well in my studies, it's because I want to get good grades- it's something that makes me feel whole. In other words, I probably want the semester to start just because I can't wait for the rush of assignments and finals to start (although they may make me cry). It's not because I really love what I'm studying.

My lecturer, during my first week as a research assistant, urged me to apply for internship at several firms or MNCs, but after putting some thought into it, I know that's not what I want to do, those places are not places I want to work at. I know working under some firm, MNCs or government agencies is not what I see myself doing in the long run.

So, for the past two months, this has bothered me. I've been somewhat semi-jaded. I want to live in a dream that I create on my own, doing what I want to do. After working for different places and after the "shocks" I got and after realizing how they do business, I realized that I am not that adaptive. I can't work for a firm with values I find appalling. So that struck me, that maybe I'm meant to have my own firm instead.

Of course, I still need to gather some experience in relevant industries.

So after meeting a number of people, I thought that maybe I should make my goals less vague and really start strategizing now- before it's too late. I have to figure out what I really want to do and achieve in five years time and strive to make it a reality.

For now, my thoughts are jumbled up and I am still indecisive, but I've been talking to a few people and so far, have received good advices on this issue. I recently asked for my former schoolmate Najib's (he can be Malaysia's next business typhoon, I tell you!) opinion on this. He told me that:

"You CREATE the opportunity, rather than wait for it. So that wherever you end up, you'll find a way to optimize what you have to pursue your dreams"

"Try getting a job in relevant industries to gain experience and network, but if you don't end up in the industry you desire, it's okay. No matter where you end up, just focus on your goals"

"There are many uncertainties in life, so you have to be dynamic. You have to be visionary, you have to be flexible- because life is fast-paced and it's hard to predict trends. Analyze every option you have,  then find a way to get to your destination. Whatever happens, just stick to your goals"

So how does one begin? This is basic, but many of us tend to skip this:

• By writing down goals
• Adding ideas from time to time
• Improve ideas along the way and it will all soon become more realistic

Most importantly, in his words:

"You have to have a state of mind, ready to strive for what you want"

Not inspired enough? Read this, by a blogger whom I wish would post more. As for now, I think I have to put my thinking cap on and start writing, sketching or doodling about what I want- because people who make plans and try to achieve their goals tend to get a lot more.