The Decade of 2020: Reflections and Chances Missed

It is a trivial—though occasionally controversial—assertion that the decade of the 2020s begins with the year 2020 and ends with 2029. However, some argue that it should start in 2021 and end in 2030. Regardless of the debate, let's delve deeper into what it means to start the decade in 2020.

What Does It Mean to Announce a New Decade?

In the usage described, announce means to express or make clear the beginning of something. If we consider 2020 to be the first year of a new decade, then saying “This is 2020” essentially announces the start of a new decade. This perspective is valid and reflects a commonly accepted way of marking time.

A Childhood Perspective: 2010 to 2020

2010: 6th Grade Smiles and Dreams

It was 2010. I was in 6th grade. My routine was pure simplicity: school from 8 to 5, home for cartoons, homework, bed. I lacked any work, fear, or future worries. The world was a blank slate, and it felt incredible. I had no social media, no internet, and no real responsibilities. The air was cleaner; my thoughts were clearer. The world was mine, and I was in it, filled with joy and high hopes.

2020: The Ten-Year Journey

Now, almost 2020, ten years have passed. It feels like just yesterday, yet so much has changed. I went from a blissful child to an unburdened man, from a school student to a full-time employee. I switched from home-cooked meals to Swiggy, from physical presence to digital presence. My attention span plummeted, and my clarity diminished.

The Gaps Between Hopes and Reality

Childhood Aspirations

Back then, I dreamed big. I wanted to be a police officer, a doctor, an engineer, an astronaut—anyone. I was filled with ambition and clarity. The 10-year-old me had such clear visions of what I wanted to become. In retrospect, I would be disappointed in the 30-year-old me. I didn’t achieve what I desired, and I find myself doing something that doesn’t excite me and worrying about things that may not matter.

The Future Role Model

I look at my parents, now older and greying, and realize they had fewer material worries. The 10-year-old me embodied more clarity and purpose than I do now. My 10-year-old self would likely be embittered by the current me. It's a stark reminder of how much time has passed and how easily we let opportunities slip by.

Reflect and Move Forward

Make the 2020s Count

The 2020s are a period when we have more money, time, and energy than any other time in our lives. These are our golden years, and we should use them wisely. Here are a few reminders:

Learn: If you want to learn something, do it. Don't wait for an ideal moment; now is always the best time. Travel: If you want to go somewhere, go. Exploration and new experiences are treasures that money can't buy. Be: If you want to be someone, become them. Your age and responsibilities should not define your goals.

Money can be earned again, but time is irreplaceable. The 2020s are a unique chance to make your dreams a reality or at least progress significantly towards them. Don't let this decade go to waste. Reflect on what you want to achieve and take action.

Conclusion

Time flies, and before we know it, it will be 2030. I hope for a day when I wake up and feel a sense of happiness, accomplishment, and pride. Will my 30-year-old self look back at the 2020s with fondness or disappointment? The answer rests in our hands. Let's make the next decade count.