It's been a few days being in Malaysia after my departure from United Kingdom, after three months staying there. I still feel very overwhelmed for the opportunity I was given and how it gave me such higher positivity and confidence to start my final year in two weeks.
I think I feel responsible to share this tip, not because I declare myself as a bright student nor having other intentions associated with pride -but instead as another human being just like everyone else, who is as afraid to take risks of the unknown.
Take that leap of faith, to get towards your goals.
Whatever your goals may be -successfully accomplishing a degree, starting a new workplace, settling into a relationship, trying out that style you're not used to before but always wanted to, attempt of losing weight or take fitness seriously, etc. You'll be worried of the outcomes of presumably failure, regrets and demotivation. What if, just staying in your comfort zone is the best option. But what if, getting out is better?
I believe, and firmly have this ideology that whatever that is given to you, is capable for you.
Religiously speaking, I believe if God puts me into the position of choosing a risky yet great opportunity, it is a clear sign of competence. It just started with a simple announcement in the lecture hall, that second year students had this opportunity to undergo an internship fully funded in the U.K. I was sipping tea, went down to the toilet with my best friend Li li and we continued sitting on the bench, talking about it being such a fascinating opportunity to try.
There were people smarter than me, practically skilled than me, better in analysing statistical data than me (for sure on this lol), and the chances were low. My heart sunk hearing they would only accept the offer for one student. My first leap of faith, was applying for the research studies I knew I had no skill for but rather, basic understandings. Emails of requests were declined from the lecturers in the U.K, some didn't even respond. Fast forward a few weeks later, I got the position.
Was I worried I may not perform? Yes. It was an official research involving the electroencephalogram and the transcranial magnetic resonance, Matlab software -something I've never done before. But I excelled it, more than what I thought I was capable of. The chances I've grabbed not only made my experience worthwhile, but it improved my sense of directions towards my future career. It was crystal clear, and I wake up every morning feeling happy, grateful.
I'd go back after work, hanging out with my colleagues or after a trip from somewhere feeling so overwhelmed it made my stomach hurt. I'd find difficulties sleeping not because I was stressed or upset, but too grateful and blessed. To you it might be a small matter, but to me it was my best decision of trying and believing in myself.
Whenever people ask about my stay there, I'd always say there is only ups -never once downs. Of course, I did have some difficulties but I had this mindset whatever happens, there is always a solution. Just remain calm, and have a leap of faith.
We were in Matlock, having a nice picnic until we realised it was a Sunday and there wasn't any public transportations including Uber to get our way back to the train station in time. We walked roughly around 3 miles, we decided to car-hitch anyone who was willing to stop by the road for us. No one did. I should be worried, but I wasn't. I felt that luck will come in its way sooner or later. And a car stopped minutes later -a female priest helped us and said it was in the name of us as sisters regardless of different religion.
Another time was in the tram, after walking for a mile into town to fulfil my craving for Korean food. The tram had a delay, and when it came, I forgot to tap my Mango card (touch-n-go). I thought it was okay, as long as I tap the card once I reach the tram in University Park, my money will be deducted anyways. The officer, out of nowhere, came to check and he advised me to get off the tram with him. He took all my details, card, ID everything and printed out a fine. Of course I was a bit anxious, but I still remain collected, told him the real situation but also held out money to pay the fine ticket. He was stunned, assisted me all the way to my stop and told me politely to make an appeal letter. He was actually trying to help. I didn't have to pay.
The point is, whatever situation you are in, if you still believe good things will come to you despite the difficulties you face, the chances are you will be saved. It's not just about the risks you take, it's more on creating a optimistic default setting in your brain. It did make me mentally healthier, and although my best 3 months have passed, my thoughts on faith remained. If you believe in karma, as long as you are honest with yourself, good things will come to you.
If you believe in God's will like I do, you know whatever happens He will always bring the best outcome for you if you believe He will.
Believing is actually sufficient to strive something, it serves purpose to fuel your sense of drive and motivation. If strong enough, it'll lead you to your physical actions and you'll be amazed how your mindset can change your life.
My lecturer shared this on her instagram, it's a perfect quote to describe the importance of having faith in yourself.
