I WAS LABELED A FAILURE AND DELUSIONAL
Kamalayan

I WAS LABELED A FAILURE AND DELUSIONAL

Mar 23, 2024, 2:26 AM
Tato Malay

Tato Malay

Columnist

Getting my degree seemed pointless. The years spent in pursuit of education felt like a hollow investment, as if I had been led astray down a path that held no real value for my future. The prospect of going to work for someone else filled me with a sense of dread, as if I was surrendering my autonomy and dreams to serve someone else's agenda. The idea of working solely for money appeared senseless, like a rigged game orchestrated by the government to exploit hardworking individuals through income taxes and trap them in a crumbling system.

With no clear career goals, no financial stability, and a lack of job prospects, I found myself adrift in uncertainty. I was at a loss as to what direction to take in life. The ordinary world no longer resonated with me, and I refused to let my existence be dictated by the ticking of the clock, the demands of a job, or the allure of a paycheck.

Contemplating the possibility of starting my own business only intensified my apprehension. I feared that it would not sustain me in the long run, and I struggled to envision a venture that would thrive amidst the impending disintegration of the world around me. Overwhelmed by a rapid influx of changes and trapped in self-pity, I felt a sense of hopelessness.

However, it is during such moments of despair that we have the opportunity to uncover our true potential. Instead of succumbing to defeat, I began to realize that this period of uncertainty could be an invitation for personal growth and self-discovery. I started exploring different paths and questioning my own passions and aspirations.


Gradually, I shifted my focus from external circumstances to internal reflection. I sought solace in creative endeavors, engaging in activities that sparked my curiosity and allowed me to express myself. Through this process, I discovered hidden talents, untapped potential, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Rather than allowing fear to paralyze me, I embraced the unknown as an opportunity for transformation. I sought guidance from mentors like my multidimensional being friends, tapped into supportive networks, and honed my skills in areas that truly resonated with me. I realized that starting a business didn't have to mean walking a path of uncertainty; it could be an avenue for pursuing my passions and creating a positive impact.

Despite facing criticism and skepticism from my own family, I pursued my passion and dreams. With almost 5000 friends on Facebook, I shared my journey through my YouTube channel, Tato Malay Kamalayan. However, not everyone supported or believed in my endeavors. My uncle Teddy Benigno, in particular, labeled me as a failure and claimed I was delusional.

Undeterred by the negativity, I remained steadfast in my pursuit. I even invited my skeptical uncle to the launching of my first book, demonstrating my resilience and determination. Surprisingly, instead of discouraging , my uncle showed interest in being involved in my future projects. He expressed a desire to write the foreword for my next book, showcasing a change of heart.


Unfortunately, fate intervened, and Teddy Benigno passed away before he could fulfill his promise. I was left with mixed emotions, but I could still appreciate the fact that my uncle had recognized my potential and had intended to support me.

My story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. Despite facing criticism and being labeled a failure, I remained committed to my goals. My journey serves as an inspiration for others to follow their passions and not be discouraged by detractors. My determination allowed me to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing my dreams, leaving a lasting impact on those who encounter my story.


While the world may be in a constant state of change, I learned to adapt and evolve alongside it. I shifted my perspective from a victim of circumstances to an agent of change. I began to recognize that the disintegration of systems also presented a chance for innovation and the birth of new possibilities.

Although I initially felt lost and disillusioned, I eventually found my way by embracing the uncertainty and fearlessly exploring new avenues. I learned that true fulfillment comes from aligning my actions with my values and passions, rather than succumbing to societal expectations. By embracing change and focusing on personal growth, I was able to transcend the limitations of the ordinary world and forge a path that was uniquely my own.

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