Chapter 1: Embracing the Black-and-White Phase

Reflecting on my life, I often think about a time I refer to as my "black-and-white phase." This period lasted nearly five years before 2021, during which I experienced intense isolation from others. It was a time filled with aspirations, hard work, and determination, but also marked by confusion, obstacles, and a fair share of tears.

I'm grateful to have moved beyond that monochrome stage and into a more vibrant chapter of my life. I often look back on those challenging times, as they were pivotal in shaping who I am today. Life, I realize, is a mix of highs and lows, and despite the challenges, I find joy in my own unique way.

The year 2018 stands out as the most difficult year for me. I lacked the funds to start a blog and had no support system to lean on. It was a time of profound loneliness, where I often found myself crying at night. Yet, during those sleepless hours, I dreamed of exploring the world and earning a living online.

I'm not here to complain; rather, I appreciate how I persevered through that difficult time. My motivation was palpable then, driven by an urgent desire to bring my ideas to life. I often felt trapped, eager to act but held back by circumstances. I penned a quote during that time that still resonates with me: "Obstacles are an essential part of a struggling life. There is no struggle without obstacles."

In 2018, I took the leap into freelancing, and by 2019, I began my blogging journey. While I look back on the black-and-white phase with nostalgia, it has transformed into a distant memory. Back then, making money felt like an experiment driven by passion, whereas now it is often a responsibility, occasionally requiring me to engage in tasks I may not enjoy.

Yet, I find myself fortunate. Most days, it doesn't feel like work because I love what I do, focusing on tasks that bring me joy. All the struggles, the battles against obstacles, and those sleepless nights filled with tears have ultimately led me to a fulfilling lifestyle where I can pursue my passions.

Life, as I’ve learned, is filled with its fair share of challenges and triumphs. Much like a video game, as we progress, we encounter tougher challenges that push us to grow. I am thankful for my black-and-white phase as it equipped me to tackle the various levels of life that lie ahead.

Chapter 2: Understanding the Balance of Emotions

In life, the existence of struggles and obstacles is inevitable. Until our last breath, we will confront challenges, and life will remain a series of ups and downs. Our ability to experience joy is deeply intertwined with our capacity to endure sadness. The more we feel sorrow, the greater our capacity for happiness.

As articulated in one of my favorite books, The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas: "There is neither happiness nor unhappiness in this world; there is only the comparison of one state with another. Only a man who has felt ultimate despair is capable of feeling ultimate bliss. It is necessary to have wished for death in order to know how good it is to live."

Osho eloquently captures the essence of this balance: "Sadness gives depth. Happiness gives height. Sadness gives roots. Happiness gives branches. Happiness is like a tree going into the sky, and sadness is like the roots going down into the womb of the earth. Both are needed, and the higher a tree goes, the deeper it goes, simultaneously."

While I could elaborate further on my black-and-white phase, I prefer to keep my thoughts concise. It's late, and I have an early train tomorrow.

If you're currently experiencing your own black-and-white phase, be patient. Use this time to learn and grow, as it’s a valuable opportunity to strengthen yourself for what lies ahead. If you’ve moved past that phase, take a moment to be grateful and prepare for whatever comes next—be it another monochrome stage or a burst of color.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections. 💚 If you found value in this, consider buying me a cup of coffee when you can. If you have questions or wish to collaborate, don’t hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to support aspiring hustlers like you @InuEtc on Instagram. Keep pushing forward!