Your lane

Stay in your lane.

Oftentimes, we compare ourselves with how fast other’s lanes have become. Instead of being happy for them, we are swallowed by bitterness and jealousy that they get to be there first. But which “there” exactly?

What we don’t realize is the fact that getting “there” could mean anything. The destination or oftentimes, success could mean a lot of things. To some, success means having the ability to breathe normally without any apparatus or support from machines. To others, success could mean being with family after working abroad for years. Some would view success as conceiving children after trying for a long time. Others would equate success to accomplishments, having a six-figure job that could lift their purchasing powers.

While we are so busy minding others’ lanes, we forget that our lane is where we are supposed to be. It is a lane that was given to us because of our temperaments, personalities, ability to handle stress, physical stamina, and so on. 

There’s a thin line between admiration and jealousy. Oftentimes, we hit that spot just because we feel like they are all getting ahead while we’re stuck down to our old, boring lane.

It is so easy to compare what we lack without realizing that we have every formula for our definition of success. It is so easy to fall into the trap of other’s expectations. We are convinced that getting ”there” is generic for everyone. We like having to fit into that mold. It makes us powerful, special, and competent. 

But if we break down what it means to get “there”, is it seeing ourselves into that podium? Is it belonging to that group? Is it getting on to that lane and be like everyone else?

I dare say, we need to evaluate our strengths. We need to have faith in ourselves a little more. So what if it takes a longer time? So what if progress is rather slow? 

We need to realize that a sparkly destination is nothing if we do not enjoy the process of getting there.