Chasing Dreams or Chasing the Wind? A Reality Check for Today’s Youth

Recently, I had a thought-provoking conversation with a young man who approached me for help in securing a job. When I asked him what kind of job he was looking for, his response left me both puzzled and concerned. 

He told me he wanted a "good office job"—one that would allow him to stay in the office. At first, I thought he might have a specific career path in mind, but as I dug deeper, I discovered something surprising. This young man was actually a skilled painter and tiler, a trade he had learnt and presumably practiced.

This encounter got me thinking about the mindset of many young people today. It highlighted a growing trend: unrealistic dreams and a disconnect between aspirations and reality. This young man, like many others, seemed to be chasing a vision of success that didn’t align with his skills, experience, or passions. His story is a reflection of a broader issue among today’s youth—a struggle to reconcile their dreams with their capabilities.

 The Incompatibility of Dreams and Reality

The young man’s desire for an office job, while not inherently wrong, struck me as incompatible with his current skill set. He had invested time and effort into learning a trade—painting and tiling—yet he was eager to abandon it for the allure of an office environment. This raised an important question: Why chase something that doesn’t align with your capacity or what you’ve already mastered?

There’s nothing wrong with dreaming of working in an office, but dreams must be grounded in reality. Do you have the skills, education, or experience required for that office job? If not, are you willing to put in the work to acquire them?

More importantly, why leave behind something you’ve already learnt and may excel at? Many people fail to realise that skilled trades like painting, tiling, carpentry, or plumbing are not only valuable but often more financially rewarding and fulfilling than many office jobs.

The Value of Handiwork in a Changing World

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, there’s a growing misconception that office jobs are superior to manual labour. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Skilled trades are in high demand, and those who master them often find themselves in stable, well-paying careers. 

Unlike some office jobs that can be repetitive or unfulfilling, handiwork offers a sense of accomplishment and tangible results. You can literally see the fruits of your labour at the end of the day.

Moreover, the world needs skilled tradespeople. Offices may come and go, but the need for painters, tilers, electricians, and other tradesmen will always exist. These jobs are not only essential but also offer opportunities for entrepreneurship. 

A skilled painter, for example, can start their own business, build a client base, and achieve financial independence—something that’s often harder to do in a traditional office setting.

A Call to Action: Embrace What’s Within Your Reach

To the young man I spoke with, and to all the young people out there chasing dreams that don’t align with their reality, here’s my advice: Look for what’s within your reach and hold on to it.

There’s no shame in pursuing a career that aligns with your skills and passions. If you’re a painter and tiler, embrace it. Seek opportunities in painting companies, construction firms, or even start your own business. Hone your craft, build your reputation, and take pride in the work you do.

Dreaming big is important, but it’s equally important to dream smart. Instead of chasing the wind—pursuing goals that are incompatible with your current reality—focus on building a solid foundation. 

Use the skills you already have as a stepping stone to greater opportunities. Remember, success isn’t about where you work or what title you hold; it’s about finding fulfilment and making a meaningful contribution.

Final Thoughts

The young man’s story is a reminder that dreams, while powerful, must be rooted in reality. It’s okay to aspire for more, but not at the expense of what you already have. 

Skilled trades are not a fallback option ; they are a viable, rewarding, and often overlooked path to success. 

So, to all the young people out there: take stock of your skills, embrace your strengths, and pursue opportunities that align with who you are and what you can do.

In the end, it’s not about the job title or the office you sit in—it’s about the impact you make and the life you build. Stop chasing the wind, and start chasing what’s real.