Useless...
A letter to everyone who was told “ just focus on studies".
Three months before my boards, I have one job: study. Everything else, they say, is useless.
Reading stories, fiction or non-fiction? Useless. Writing? Useless. Singing practice? Also useless.
I’m taking my exams seriously.
But somewhere along the way, the things that make me me got filed under "waste of time."
And I know I’m not the only one.
Honestly? I’ve become numb.
I’ve heard it so many times that it doesn’t even sting anymore. I used to argue. Now I just nod.
But think about it. Say you love something. Maybe you want to start going to the gym.
Maybe you want to learn a new skill. Something that’s yours, not for marks and not for anyone’s approval.
And the answer is already waiting: "Focus on your studies."
And, and, and...
I’ve loved skincare and makeup since I was a kid.
It genuinely makes me feel confident and happy. I give it my time, because it’s mine.
But I always hear it, even when it’s behind my back: "Oh, she’s just busy with her looks. She must be dumb."
And then the line: "Padhne wale bachon ko yeh sab nahi karna chahiye."
Get Harshita’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Then what?
Why can’t you be well-groomed and intelligent at the same time? Why do you have to choose only one?
And it’s the same pattern everywhere.
Now my school trip is coming up. And this time I just can’t go, because it will be a "waste of time."
A trip with my friends. Memories I’ll never get back. Waste of time.*
They’re not bad people.
They just can’t see that the things they call useless are the things that keep me going.
So what can we do?
Don’t argue with them. I repeat, don’t. It will only give you stress and worsen the situation.
Instead, do the things you love quietly. Read that story. Write that page. Practice that song. Not to hurt anyone, just without turning it into a fight.
I know it sounds dumb, but it works for me.
It’s not a perfect solution. It’s just what keeps me going.
You have the right to do what you actually love, even as a teenager.
We are humans, not robots...
Studies matter. So do you.
At last, take care of yourself. You are your own responsibility.
Lots of love🤍.
If this felt like you, a clap would mean a lot.
