In recent years, we’ve witnessed a mass exodus of Punjabi students and families moving to countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK in search of a better future. The dream of a prosperous life abroad often seems like the ultimate goal for many, but is the reality as perfect as it is often portrayed?
The Illusion of Progress
Many students went to Canada with high hopes of building a successful career and securing a bright future. But now, we see these same students facing hardships, struggling to manage their studies, work, and living expenses. Some are even protesting in the streets, crying for justice against the exploitation they face.
Was this the progress we had all hoped for? Or are we trapped in an illusion, shaped by dreams and promises that were never fully realistic to begin with? We knew from the start that it would be hard, but the real challenges of life abroad are rarely spoken about openly.
Why Don’t We Share the Whole Picture?
One thing I’ve often noticed is how we change the narrative when we visit India. We tend to focus on the positives—the nice car, the branded clothes, the trips back home, and the illusion of success. But we hide the reality: the long hours of work, the high rent, the stress of balancing multiple jobs, and the loneliness of being away from family.
Is it pride, or perhaps the fear of being judged? Why don’t we tell people back home the real story?
The Pressure to Succeed
There’s an immense pressure in our community to “make it” abroad. We leave everything behind, thinking that once we step onto foreign soil, everything will fall into place. But the truth is, success takes time, and the road is full of unexpected struggles.
Many students face financial challenges, struggle to find the right job, and are overwhelmed by the complexities of navigating a new system. It’s important to understand that not everyone will immediately find the success they were promised.
Sharing the Realities: A Responsibility
When we visit home, we need to stop sugar-coating our experiences. Instead of boasting about material success, let’s share the real challenges, the hardships, and the lessons we’ve learned. This isn’t about discouraging others; it’s about being honest.
Moving abroad can open doors to new opportunities, but it’s not without sacrifice. Let’s be upfront about the struggles and guide the next generation with practical advice, not just dreams.
Conclusion: Breaking the Illusion
The grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and it’s time we accept that. While there are many opportunities abroad, there are also significant challenges that should be acknowledged. By sharing our real experiences, we can help others make informed decisions about their futures and avoid the disappointment of unrealistic expectations.
Let’s embrace honesty and start having these conversations within our communities.