Motivation in College: Lessons from Umar's Inspiring Journey

Yesterday, while browsing through a YouTube video about Physicswallah motivation from their motivation channel, I stumbled upon an interview with a young student named Umar, who had cleared the NEET UG exam with an impressive 602 marks. This student's story is a stark reminder of the power of dedication and self-motivation, and it has left a lasting impression on me and many others.

An Unlikely Success Story

Umar hails from a small village called Dagi, in the Pulwama district of Kashmir. At just 18 years old, he has become a beacon of hope, despite the countless challenges he faced. Here are some of the remarkable points about his journey:

Umar has been sleeping only 3 hours a day for the past 12 years. His father is a 70-year-old laborer, and his siblings work in an apple orchard to contribute to their studies. Umar used to work as a laborer at an apple garden to earn ?500 per day, saving up for his education. He balanced his labor work with studies from 6 PM to 12 AM, then slept for 3 hours before waking up at 3 AM to study until 8 AM. Umar worked for 7 years at the apple orchard and managed to crack the NEET exam with a score of 602, securing a seat in a government medical college.

These facts are truly inspiring, and it makes us wonder: What motivated him to continue in the face of such hardships?

The Role of Self-Motivation

Merely having external motivation, such as gifts, praise, or monetary rewards, often falls short in the long term. Umar's story underscores the importance of intrinsic motivation. Real motivation comes from within and is driven by a clear sense of purpose. Here’s why education is more than just a means to an end—it’s a journey towards personal growth and fulfilment:

Understanding why you are studying can provide the necessary drive to keep going, even when faced with challenges. When you align your goals with your values, you are more likely to stay motivated in the long term. Self-motivation requires self-awareness and a deep understanding of your passions and aspirations.

Lessons for Students Today

Many students nowadays, despite having all the amenities, such as comfortable rooms, books, smartphones, and internet access, often feel discouraged and distracted in their studies. Comparing ourselves to others who have seemingly smooth paths can be demotivating. However, Umar's story teaches us valuable lessons:

Instead of comparing ourselves to those with seemingly more resources, we should compare ourselves to those who have less yet still strive to achieve more. Our focus should be on our own journey, rather than the perceived advantages of others. Sometimes, the hardest journey is the most rewarding, and it is these struggles that forge true character and resilience.

Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Umar's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and intrinsic motivation. It challenges us to reflect on our own motivations and to not let distractions or external factors get in the way of our goals. Remember, the true measure of success is not just the destination but the journey itself. If you are facing challenges in your academic or personal life, take inspiration from Umar's tale and keep moving forward with determination and self-belief.

Wishing you all the best in your endeavors!