Navigating Aspirations: A Journey from Scarcity to Success

Last week, I had the privilege of engaging with a group of undergraduate students in Brussels. They expressed a keen interest in gaining insights into the life of a diplomat residing in their country, expecting a discourse focused on diplomatic affairs. However, recognising the opportunity to connect more profoundly, I shared my journey, weaving a narrative that transcended the diplomatic realm.

The challenges of scarcity marked my upbringing. Growing up in an environment where my family depended on cultivating coffee beans, tea leaves, and pyrethrum for survival, financial struggles were a constant companion. Weekends were predominantly spent in church, seeking solace and divine intervention under challenging circumstances. During one such church gathering, our pastor encouraged us to articulate our requests to God privately. My plea was straightforward: "God, help me leave this village."

Leaving the village became a pivotal goal, but in my mind, I constructed various hypothetical scenarios of the person I aspired to become. Initially, I envisioned myself as a teacher, inspired by the sight of educators as the only individuals in my village who wore shoes. Later, visits to hospitals sparked a desire to become a doctor. As I transitioned to city life, my aspirations continued to evolve, but the common thread was education—a means to uplift myself in the eyes of the community.

Reflecting on my journey, a recent psychological research paper titled "A Systematic Review of the Impact of Future-oriented Thinking on Academic Outcomes" by Pawlak and Moustafa resonates with my experience. The research underscores the significance of future-oriented thinking, emphasising its role in generating mental representations of the future and projecting oneself into various hypothetical states. The ability to envision and work towards future goals has profound implications for psychological well-being and success.

Numerous studies corroborate the positive correlation between future-oriented thought and favourable life outcomes. Individuals with a greater inclination towards future-oriented thinking tend to demonstrate higher levels of engagement and performance. Guiding young minds towards future goals has enhanced their commitment and achievements. In my own life, the alignment of circumstances, sometimes seemingly orchestrated by the universe, propelled me toward the realisation of my mental representations.

Navigating through life, there were moments of uncertainty and diversions. As a student in the USA, I engaged in menial tasks like washing dishes and toilets to make ends meet. Despite the apparent detours, these experiences imparted crucial life lessons, from humility to adaptability and resilience. The transient nature of such assignments teaches one to persevere and appreciate the humbling journey that shapes character.

Ultimately, I achieved my initial goal of becoming a teacher—a cherished profession. Starting as a tutorial fellow and ascending to the professor position, I found fulfilment in shaping minds. Yet, my story does not conclude there. The spirit of envisioning new hypothetical states persists. Despite deviations, such as assuming an ambassadorial role, I try to contribute to education and support small businesses.

In this evolving landscape, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a transformative force. AI can assess students' skills and weaknesses, tailor learning materials to individual needs, and provide a personalised learning experience. This approach ensures that students receive the appropriate level of challenge and support, fostering effective and engaging learning environments.

Moreover, machine learning algorithms can analyse patterns within small and medium enterprises (SMEs), identifying trends and areas for improvement. By leveraging AI-powered analytics, SMEs gain valuable insights, uncover hidden possibilities, and make informed strategic decisions. The intersection of human aspiration and technological innovation opens new vistas for progress, reinforcing the idea that the future is shaped by a dynamic interplay of vision, effort, and the unforeseen opportunities that arise along the way.