Now that we are back in the school routine, I’ve been thinking about how often I’ve heard young people repeat what adults have told them:
“In our family, everyone is a doctor or a lawyer.”
Or the opposite:
“No one in our family has ever been a doctor or a lawyer.”

Should such legacies determine our life choices?

Research shows that expectations and unwritten norms within families and communities influence our educational decisions more than we might think. Just as clearly, those who are able to choose based on their interests and strengths are more likely to experience job satisfaction, motivation, and life fulfillment.

Going to school or work with a sense of passion and joy – where I get to use my strengths – is one of the most powerful drivers for both learning and performance. This is true whether you are an electrician, nurse, mechanic, hairdresser, economist, or lawyer. All of these professions require knowledge, skill, and dedication.

Public debate in Finland often points out that we need more highly educated people. But if I had to choose between someone with a high degree and someone who is truly well-educated, I’d choose the latter. The most important thing is that a person is well-trained – equipped with the right knowledge and skills for their work, and able to apply them in ways that create value for both themselves and others.

This is where wellbeing comes in. When I get to work on something I’m passionate about and use my strengths, curiosity and the desire to learn more awaken. I seek out new knowledge voluntarily, take initiative, and go the extra mile – without being told.

The feeling of being able to choose my own path – not being directed by parents, relatives, friends, or teachers – is crucial. Feeling knowledgeable and competent, whether in a meeting room, under a car, or supporting another person, builds self-confidence and motivation – and creates wellbeing!

We don’t know what professions will exist in the future. The only thing we can be sure of is that change will continue. That’s why we need to strengthen our inner change muscle: curiosity, courage to try new things, creativity, and adaptability.

Tara Westover, author of Educated, grew up in a Mormon family with no formal schooling and did not set foot in a classroom until the age of seventeen. Few believed in her dreams, but one day she met a professor who looked beyond her lack of education – he saw her ability and her curiosity. With his encouragement, she found the courage to believe in her own worth and take the next step. That moment became a turning point in her journey, and eventually, Tara earned her PhD from the University of Cambridge.

Another example is the Swedish creative multi-talent Ernst Kirchsteiger, who was not a star student in school. However, his primary school teacher saw and affirmed him and his talent – and this gave him the courage to fully invest in his creative side. This story is from his book Lyckan i det lilla.

Let us all be the adult who truly sees the young person – who lifts, respects, and encourages.
The one who discovers the potential and talent that exists in every human being.
We never know which star we may help ignite – or which dream we may save – but we do know that our presence can change a life.

A single careless, dismissive word spoken in haste, or a doubtful glance, can extinguish any star.

Teacher, principal, leader, parent, colleague – do you want to become better at listening, being present, giving responsibility, dreaming, and seeing potential – both in yourself and in others?

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Together, we light stars!

“The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.”
~ Steve Jobs