The Duality of Modern Society: Societal Pressures and Personal Resilience

One of the most striking images that could sum up contemporary society is a bustling urban environment teeming with diverse individuals engaged with technology. Smartphones, digital screens, and headphones dominate the scene, symbolizing themes of connectivity, the fast pace of life, and the blend of cultures in modern society. Alternatively, an image showing contrasting elements, such as a person working remotely at home surrounded by nature juxtaposed with crowded city life, captures the duality of modern existence. This includes the push for work-life balance in a digital age, the impact of remote work, and the ongoing challenges of urban living.

Common Opinions and Insights

Many people often discuss the controversial opinions that those who attempt the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) multiple times are considered crazy. Despite the incredibly low success rate for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, why do individuals persist in these exams? It is essential to reflect on the perspectives and experiences of such individuals.

The Dual Nature of Frustration and Empathy

Expressing these opinions often comes from a place of personal frustration. We, as frustrated individuals, may unconsciously project our own dissatisfaction onto those who face similar failures. These opinions can stem from a misplaced sense of superiority or the need to vent frustrations on more vulnerable sections of society, which might satisfy our egos. However, it is crucial to recognize that success and failure are subjective experiences. Many who do not succeed in NEET or UPSC exams still find satisfaction and purpose in life.

Alternatives to Professional Success

For instance, consider someone whose love marriage does not materialize but moves on to build a happy life through other means. Similarly, an individual who opts for education over marriage discovers personal fulfillment and defines their life beyond the confines of one marriage. Each individual's life path is unique, and often, the very act of attempting these exams and facing setbacks contributes to personal resilience.

Personal Reflection and Growth

For those who have attempted NEET or UPSC multiple times, the experience itself can be transformative. Even without success, the act of taking a risk and experiencing the phase of struggle can provide valuable insights. These experiences teach us the true value of life's little moments, such as time spent with family, friendship, and personal growth.

Support and Understanding from Family

It is important to acknowledge the personal and emotional struggles of individuals attempting these exams. In my own experience, upon not clearing the NEET exam, my relatives would give unnecessary advice, questioning why I wasted so much time without capabilities. My mother would also express sympathy, but it was clear their sympathies were not genuine. Instead, they were merely trying to assert their own superiority and control the narrative.

Conclusion

The experiences of those who attempt NEET or UPSC multiple times are often undervalued by society. These individuals, though not successful in these exams, may still find happiness and personal growth. It is important to move away from labeling them as failures and instead recognize their resilience and determination in navigating life's challenges.