INTERESTS AND HOBBIES.
Exploring Interests and Hobbies has been a pivotal part of my self-development journey. A sports teacher in my early secondary school emphasized the importance of cultivating interests beyond academics for overall development. He urged us to invest our heart into one pursuit, assuring us it would yield more than just academic success. Looking back, I appreciate the wisdom in his advice. While I may not have excelled in sports, I gave team sports a shot and found myself doing decently. I also dabbled in music, particularly enjoying the piano. A cherished memory was performing with my batchmates at our school's annual celebrations. Football, basketball, and MMA hold a special place in my heart as my ongoing interests. These experiences contribute not just to my skill set but to the broader canvas of my personal growth.
Football
Cristiano Ronaldo is my favorite!
My passion for football ignited during my 5th-grade days when my friends Krish and Mannan and I decided to join an academy and train together. Being with close friends while playing the game I adore was an experience beyond compare, and the skills we cultivated at the academy added an extra layer of fulfillment. I set my sights on becoming a goalkeeper and dedicated myself to continuous improvement. Ever since we have arranged multiple matches within our friend group during school outside school, anytime we could find a free slot amongst us all. However, I have not played football, or as it is known in Canada, soccer, a lot due to the weather here and because I have been engaged in other sports since coming here, which you will see in the following sections.
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the title of my all-time favorite player. I've avidly followed his journey from Real Madrid to Juventus, then back to Manchester, and now with Al Nassr. Witnessing his unwavering grit and dedication on the field, transforming even struggling teams, has been a profound source of inspiration for me.
One of my most cherished personal achievements occurred when I played a pivotal role as a goalkeeper, contributing to Pteroleon, my school's house team, securing victory in the football tournament during our annual competition. Despite enduring the setback of a broken leg, the triumph belonged to Pteroleon! For me, it's not merely about the win; it's about the indomitable spirit and relentless effort invested in the game, shaping not only victories but also character and resilience.
Mixed Martial Arts
Jon Jones is my favorite!
MMA and boxing have been subjects of fascination for me long before my arrival in Canada, but it was only after immersing myself in numerous events since coming here that I truly delved into these sports. The camaraderie of friends who share this interest with me has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in deepening my connection to these disciplines.
Beyond the apparent physicality and intensity associated with combat sports, I perceive them as intricate forms of art, each layer revealing nuances of skills, talent, fitness, and strategic thinking. MMA and boxing, in my view, stand out as holistic sports that encompass a myriad of elements, offering valuable lessons in discipline, passion, and the relentless pursuit of dreams through the athletes who engage in them.
The impact of these sports extends beyond the ring, providing insights into the realms of business and marketing, as exemplified by icons like Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather. Observing their journeys has broadened my understanding of the industry's dynamics, revealing lessons in determination, resilience, and strategic branding.
Personally, MMA and boxing have left an indelible mark on my life. The motivation they instill has translated into a commitment to regular gym attendance, fostering a significant improvement in my overall health and fitness. My friends and I, inspired by our shared passion, actively practice boxing at our local gym, where we benefit from ample equipment and a supportive environment. Reflecting on the past year, I find myself in the best physical shape ever, a testament to the positive influence these sports have had on my well-being and lifestyle.
Video Games
The Assassins' Creed franchise is my favorite!
Video Games as a form of self-development? Absolutely, but always with moderation in mind. Falling into the trap of gaming obsession can lead down the wrong path, turning a leisure activity into a harmful addiction. However, when approached judiciously, games serve as excellent stress-busters, providing a space where you can be analytical, strategically navigating your way to victory.
Being an avid gamer myself, I have a special fondness for games like Assassins' Creed, Call of Duty, and Red Dead Redemption 2—they're truly fantastic. I make it a point to game with a close-knit group of friends for a specific number of hours each week—never exceeding that limit. It's all about balance, ensuring that gaming harmonizes with, rather than dominates, my studies and other activities. In this game called life, equilibrium is the golden rule.
FUN TIMES!
