Read the responses to this week’s Write to Win prompt, and choose the answer you like most on this form.
Hong Kong: Stop doubting yourself. Try out for all the teams you want to try out for and pursue your dreams. If I had continued to doubt myself, I would not have the success and recognition in my passions today.
Tokyo: Think carefully about our future and independently study the elective subjects I want to take later. The syllabus is cramped, and there is not enough time to study each subject thoroughly. But if I self-study every day, I will be able to absorb most of the knowledge.
Singapore: Slow down and take a break from my everyday hustle and bustle. And prioritise my work-life balance and overall wellness. Three years ago, everyone – including my teachers and school seniors – encouraged me to spare no time pursuing every opportunity I encountered during my lower form years. That advice may have initiated cycles of overworking and tapping out, undisputably causing me to suffer from the ensuing physical and mental malaise and burnout. If I could travel back in time and change something, I would make sure to recuperate from intense tension every day. I am not saying I cannot shoulder responsibility, but that I know my limits and needs well now. I would have made different choices if I had known what I know now.
Seoul: Socialise more. During the Covid-19 pandemic, I did not talk much to my peers and usually stayed alone in one corner. As I got older, it became difficult for me to communicate with my peers. If I had known about the issue earlier, I would have developed better communication skills sooner.
Sydney: Stay curious, and do not worry about choosing one path too early. Explore both stories and science – mythology, history, artificial intelligence and finance all connect in surprising ways. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes and dream big. Every small step will build a stronger you.
London: I would push myself to stretch daily and improve my ballet skills. My dream of being a ballerina faded due to tight muscles. If I practised more, I might have succeeded. Now, I wish I could go back and urge my past self not to give up: “Trust the process.”
Paris: It is OK that some people like you and some people don’t. After all, you cannot please everyone. Put yourself first, and do not let other people take advantage of your kindness. Love yourself, because if you don’t even love yourself, how will other people love you for who you are?
Berlin: Listen to our teachers and parents and be more open-minded. Be brave enough to ask questions whenever you need. Your teachers offer you invaluable advice, and your parents provide support. You could also learn more from your classmates and improve your personal skills.
