<p># The Hidden Cost of Abandoned Dreams: A Nigerian Perspective<br><br>As a product designer who recently rekindled my passion for digital illustrations, I find myself reflecting on a pivotal moment from my childhood. Growing up in Nigeria, I was that kid with an ever-present sketchpad, furiously scribbling away and crafting my own comic universes. My artistic pursuits weren't just a hobby; they were a core part of my identity, fueling my creativity and shaping my worldview.<br><br>Then, tragedy struck. In a moment that's seared into my memory, my father ripped apart my beloved comics and sketchpad. His reasoning? I needed to "focus on academics." It was a well-intentioned act, born from a desire to see me succeed, but it came at a significant cost.<br><br>This experience isn't unique to me. Countless adults in Nigeria today carry similar scars – dreams abandoned, passions smothered, all in the name of conforming to parental and societal standards of success. It's a cultural phenomenon that prioritizes certain career paths and life choices over others, often at the expense of individual fulfillment and potential.<br><br>The impact of this mindset is far-reaching:<br><br>1. **Stifled Creativity**: When we discourage artistic pursuits, we risk dampening the innovative spirit that drives progress in all fields.<br><br>2. **Mental Health Consequences**: Suppressing one's true passions can lead to feelings of regret, unfulfillment, and even depression later in life.<br><br>3. **Limited Economic Diversity**: By funneling talent into a narrow range of "acceptable" professions, we miss opportunities to develop thriving creative industries.<br><br>4. **Loss of Cultural Expression**: Art, in all its forms, is a powerful medium for preserving and evolving culture. When we lose artists, we lose a part of our cultural identity.<br><br>It's crucial to recognize that success isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. The world needs doctors and engineers, but it also needs artists, writers, musicians, and dreamers. By embracing a more holistic view of success – one that values personal fulfillment alongside financial stability – we can nurture a generation of Nigerians who are not only successful but also truly happy.<br><br></p><p>As for me, rediscovering my passion for illustration has been a journey of healing and self-rediscovery. It's a reminder that it's never too late to reconnect with our abandoned dreams. To all the Nigerian children (and adults) out there with a burning passion: don't let it be extinguished. Your dreams are valid, your art matters, and your unique voice deserves to be heard.</p><p>I am glad the Gen Z's are breaking out of the norm and embracing different career paths..like content creating 😂 .<br>Let's work towards a Nigeria where creativity is celebrated, where diverse paths to success are acknowledged, and where every child feels empowered to pursue their passions. It's time to rewrite the narrative of success – one dream at a time.<br></p>