What is your salary? Are you happy with it?

"If salary or money were the sole factors that brought happiness, billionaires would undoubtedly be the happiest people on the planet. But are they?"

Having said that, I am immensely content with my life and the extent of my achievements in every aspect. Allow me to share the dreams I have realized with my current salary:

1. Can we have all the Maggie or chips? During my childhood, my younger brother and I would spend countless hours imagining a world where we could indulge in an unlimited supply of our favorite snack, Uncle Chips. We would sit together, mouths watering, as we envisioned stacks upon stacks of crispy, savory goodness filling our pantry. The mere thought of never running out of those delectable chips seemed like the pinnacle of happiness. Fast forward to today, where I can now afford to purchase as many bags of Maggie noodles or chips as my heart desires. Yet, surprisingly, my taste has evolved, and my once insatiable craving for those familiar snacks has diminished. I find myself seeking new flavors, exploring diverse cuisines, and embracing a broader palate. It serves as a gentle reminder that our desires change as we grow, and what once seemed like an ultimate goal may lose its luster over time. Life has a way of shifting our perspectives, teaching us that true contentment lies not in accumulating endless quantities of material possessions but in cherishing the memories and experiences associated with them.

2. The allure of an engine vehicle: Back in my school days, when a bicycle was my primary mode of transportation, I would often gaze longingly at those fortunate enough to own motorcycles or cars. The freedom and convenience they enjoyed, effortlessly traveling from one place to another, filled me with a mix of envy and admiration. I yearned for the day when I, too, would experience the thrill of zipping through the streets on a motorbike or cruising along the highways in a sleek automobile. As time passed, my dedication and determination led me to acquire the necessary skills to ride a motorbike and eventually own a car. It was a moment of triumph and a realization of my dreams. However, what surprises me now is the newfound appreciation I have developed for individuals who choose to ride bicycles. Witnessing their commitment to fitness, their dedication to preserving the environment, and their ability to navigate congested streets with grace has ignited a sense of admiration within me. The joy of pedaling, feeling the wind on your face, and relying on your own physical strength has a charm of its own. It's a gentle reminder that happiness can be found not only in the destination but also in the journey itself, embracing the simplicity of life's little pleasures.

3. Introduction to fast food: Ah, the memories of my college days in 2007, when I took my first step into a McDonald's and was immediately captivated by its tantalizing offerings. The aroma of sizzling burgers, the sight of golden fries, and the vibrant ambiance drew me in like a moth to a flame. However, as a student on a limited budget, indulging in the expansive menu options remained a distant dream. I could only afford to satisfy my cravings with an "Aloo Tikki Burger," a modest delight that offered a taste of the fast-food experience. In those moments, I would imagine the pleasure of relishing the more extravagant offerings such as Paneer or Vegetarian burgers. As the years passed and my financial circumstances improved, I found myself able to enjoy those once-desired delicacies. Yet, an interesting shift occurred within me. The allure of fast food began to wane, and I discovered a newfound appreciation for healthier, more wholesome meals. Living in the USA, where the culinary landscape is rich with diverse options, I realized that McDonald's no longer held the same appeal it once did. It serves as a reminder that our tastes and preferences evolve over time, and what may have seemed like the epitome of indulgence in the past can lose its charm as our experiences broaden and our understanding of nourishment expands.

5. Clothing: As my income started to grow, I vividly remember the frustration of being unable to purchase a Nike t-shirt due to its high price. It became a personal goal to have the freedom to buy as much Nike apparel as I desired. To this day, Nike remains my favorite clothing brand, and I now have the means to afford their products. However, I've come to question the true extent of my clothing collection. After all, how many t-shirts does one really need?

5. The joy of giving back: Throughout my life, like many others, I held the innate desire to provide financial support to my immediate family, aiming to bring happiness to those who raised and nurtured me. It was a goal I believed I achieved, bringing me a profound sense of fulfillment. However, what surprised me was the profound impact of extending support, not just in monetary terms, but also through moral guidance and inspiration, to those who needed it most. I discovered the power of sharing and influencing lives, especially among individuals who felt lost or were in need of a guiding hand. It became evident that happiness and fulfillment extend beyond material possessions and are rooted in the profound connections we build with others. The act of giving back, regardless of one's salary or financial status, has the potential to bring immeasurable joy and purpose. This realization transformed my perspective, inspiring me to continue making a positive impact whenever I have the opportunity. One such instance was when I spoke to children at a government school in a village in India, conveying the importance of taking "One Step at a Time" and instilling in them the belief that no dream is unattainable if they hold unwavering faith. It was a humbling experience, a reminder that happiness lies not only in personal achievements but in uplifting and empowering those around us.

If I sum up the money required to achieve the above goals, it is an insignificant proportion of what I have earned so far. 'Real' childhood dreams do not cost a lot, but dreams evolve along with our desires. Out of these five goals, only one was not materialistic, and it is that goal alone that has provided me with enduring happiness. Material goals will keep changing once achieved; it becomes an endless pursuit. Thus, the point I wish to convey is that happiness is not a destination but a journey. Firstly, it is crucial to be grateful for fulfilling your childhood dreams, regardless of their size. By doing so, you shift your focus from an empty glass to acknowledging how much it is already filled. Secondly, while money plays a significant role in realizing materialistic dreams, relying solely on salary or wealth without making a meaningful impact may hinder long-lasting happiness.

These examples serve as a testament to the evolving nature of our dreams and desires. They remind us that true contentment is found not in the relentless pursuit of material goals, but in embracing the journey, cultivating gratitude, and fostering meaningful connections with others. As we navigate life's twists and turns, let us strive for a balanced perspective that encompasses both personal fulfillment and the joy of making a positive impact on the world around us.