Embracing Authenticity
The author starts by contrasting his generation, Gen X, with the current Gen Z. The author observed that Gen X had a tendency to carefully curate their
lives before presenting them online. This led to a focus on presenting only the best versions of themselves through platforms like Orkut, LinkedIn, and Twitter. This contrasted sharply with Gen Z's preference for raw, unfiltered content. The younger generation appreciates the 'first take', embracing imperfections and seeking authenticity. This shift made the author reflect on his own journey and how societal norms shaped his actions. The author finds himself pondering the question: How did the idea of working backward to find reality even arise?
Lost Dreams
The narrative then shifts to the author's own youth. He recalls a time when he possessed clear aspirations, such as becoming a fast bowler, but gradually abandoned these dreams. He reminisces about a photograph of himself in his late teens, exuding confidence. The author then describes the journey of abandoning these dreams, which he feels as if he owes his younger self an apology. The decision to stop trying to achieve these dreams came from somewhere within, as he learned to be ashamed of his passion. The author further adds that he stopped wearing things he couldn't explain. The author's recollection prompts an examination of how societal pressures and the pursuit of perceived 'maturity' can lead to the suppression of youthful enthusiasm and the shelving of dreams.
The Curation Era
The author shares his experience of landing his first job earning ₹3,500 a month. This led to a feeling of accomplishment, and he took friends to a popular bar. However, the author soon realised he was working long hours. The Gen X generation, which the author belongs to, invented personal digital curation. They presented carefully crafted versions of themselves online. This curation was seen as a measure of success. He views Gen Z's embrace of authenticity as a form of rebellion against these curated ideals. He now wonders why society has made passion, failure, flawed dreams, and imperfect photographs seem so embarrassing.
A Question of Pride
The author now looks to his daughters, who embrace a raw and unfiltered approach to life. Their preference for capturing moments in their most candid form leads the author to wonder whether the younger version of himself would recognize him. The author contrasts his own past with his daughters' present, finding a sense of hope in their pursuit of authenticity. He feels an apology is owed to the young man who once embraced trying. He concludes with an introspective question: Have I become someone he wouldn’t recognize? The article closes by emphasising that it is not too late to reconnect with the passions of the past and rekindle the spirit of youthful ambition.
