LIFE IS NOT MATHEMATICS

 Life can be a lot of things, but to think it is Mathematics that follows a particular pattern( a quadratic formula, 'Almighty' formula, used to ascertain the accurate possible values of the unknown variable in a quadratic equation) is a little myopic. Thus, what works for you may not work for everyone else, hence, the need for diversity in all spheres of life, taking into consideration where and when certain principles can be adopted to achieve precedented objectives.

This is not meant to establish that life should not be planned. Planning is paramount preliminarily, but planning life can be understood to mean living a 'calculated' life. Many people can attest that when they were young, they perceived what they expected their lives to be, with some making education take the largest quadrant on their chart and perhaps it being the first on their scale of preference. Some people drew sketches of their future and said, beating their chests," By the age of 21, I'll be a graduate and chase my dreams right after national service." You thought so also, didn't you? It is very normal so don't be alarmed.

Calculation is an empirical and instinctive strategy for every human being to survive, and human survival depends on planning. More so, knowing what to do when determines, to a large extent, how successful you become in an endeavour. Conversely, planning life does not automatically make it successful or make plans attainable because usually there is the invisible 'worm': uncertainty.

Furthermore, as the days go by, a lot of changes occur. People's perspectives on life change after unexpected hurdles cross their paths. Oftentimes, losing a loved one, unfulfilled relationships, losing certain sponsorships, changing environment and meeting new people can derail set goals. These uncertainties can go a long way to affect predetermined objectives, depending on the persons in question. Some people make these "worms' weigh so much on them that they seek solace in alcoholism and drug abuse which eventually destroy them. Others even consider suicide.

Ultimately, people who live calculated lives are 'artificial'. They always refer to a manual or programme in order to deliver up to par. Inherently, if the reference point changes, everything gets distorted and when this happens, predetermined objectives get relegated to the background. That is to say, the mathematical formula used to determine future plans proved to be futile. Besides, referring to the experience of others to make your life better is not a bad idea, but you have to come to terms with the fact that the value of experience is not in seeing much but in seeing wisely. If truth be told, while following the steps of great people, you will encounter different challenges which will make you build your own experience.

On the whole, life is how you make it. It does not follow rigid rules: know when to move and when not to. Do not be adamant to change. When the storms of life come flooding into your life and break you down, learn from them, pick up the pieces and build a castle based on experience and relevant information with them. As Allan Massie said, "Life is not Mathematics, a few things have only one correct answer."