“THE paths you select are the ones you decide on.” Time flies as if every second matters, and we are compelled to make judgments. It seems that we are constantly driven to make big or small choices because every second counts in this ever-changing world.

     When I was growing up, I frequently explored subjects that intrigued me. Still, I tend to cease my exploration once acquiring some knowledge about them or whenever I encounter challenges in doing something. I started playing instruments, plucking strings, pressing keyboards, and after changing instruments multiple times, I stopped when I couldn't keep up with the band. I also took an interest in editing videos; not going too far, I concluded that it may not be for me. I always thought I was too late, not knowing the only answer was to settle. The result? I became a "Jack of all trades, master of none," as they say. In moments of doubt, I wished time would pause, allowing me to find what’s best for me. But time waits for no one.

     I tried different things and hobbies, eventually finding that they were not good for me. Not being able to find the things that fit my skills and talent immediately made me question: Should it take time to see what’s yours, or do I just lack the commitment to work for it?

     With this, I realized it's important to find the area you want to concentrate on instead. It's like finding your niche. Development may be like a cocoon waiting for its time to hatch. Yet, the clock will not stop waiting for that moment, nor will the sun wait for your peak before it rises because when the time comes when we find ourselves ready, the opportunity may already have passed itself, and time no longer permits.

     While in an unprogressive state, I was one day introduced to a documenting field that led me to pursue my passion for becoming a camera person. It’s clear that the challenge isn’t just in training my eyes to capture the perfect shot but also in honing my creativity to see the world differently. 

     Upon improving my skills and abilities, my sheer will and love for what I am doing led me back to pursuing editing. I never in my life thought that the thing I gave up the easiest would become the one that resulted in my greater recognition. Finding what’s for me gave me a sense of comfort that I have a straight path to walk on.

     “We should not conform with society's time” should not be an excuse for making progress. Although I have come to the conclusion that we should not adhere to society's timeline, using that belief as an excuse to avoid progress is dangerous. We are bound to different peaks in life because we all work for things differently. 

     The clock ticks, no matter what. Some succeed at 21, others at 35—but one thing is for sure:, they all move forward. It is not time that will determine when to be successful; instead, it is on us.

     We do not need to conform to society's timeline, but time is relentless. It keeps moving, whether we like it or not. That’s why we must regularly ask ourselves, 'Where am I?' Feeling lost might not mean we’re off course—it could simply mean we’ve stopped moving. It’s easy to confuse stillness for reflection, but without progress, even time spent thinking can leave us stagnant.

     Time is of the essence, and every second counts, so let's use it to make decisions that will shape our future. Recognizing and appreciating our talents and abilities is essential, but pushing ourselves to continue to develop and improve is equally important.