Every child is a talent
Discovering Your Talent in a World Beyond Paper
“In the past, having a certificate or degree was often enough to secure a stable job and a good life. Today, things have changed. With so many young people graduating from universities, competition has become more intense than ever.
Many children and teenagers feel like they are caught in a race they never signed up for — moving from classroom to classroom, exam to exam, only to enter a workplace that feels just as demanding.”
- Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong
It is easy to look around and feel discouraged. Social media often shows us only the shiny highlights of other people’s lives — their wealth, travels, or achievements — making us think we are falling behind. But here’s the truth: success is no longer just about having the highest grades or the fanciest qualifications. Success today is about finding your unique strengthsand learning how to use them to grow, contribute, and create opportunities for yourself and others.
Why Talents Matter
Every child has a talent, even if it isn’t obvious at first. Some may draw beautifully, others may love solving puzzles, coding, baking, or caring for animals. A talent doesn’t have to be flashy; it could be something as simple as having a knack for making friends, asking thoughtful questions, or telling stories that brighten someone’s day.
These abilities, when nurtured, can open doors far beyond what paper qualifications alone can achieve. Think about athletes, musicians, app developers, entrepreneurs, or even YouTubers. Many of them started small by exploring something they loved — as a hobby, a project, or a personal challenge. Over time, that little spark became their career, their calling, and their way of standing out in a crowded world.
How to Find Your Talent
Try different activities, even those outside your comfort zone. Sometimes talents appear when you least expect them.
Notice what makes you lose track of time — that’s a sign you may have found something meaningful to you.
Ask parents, friends, or teachers what they think you’re good at; often, others can see strengths you don’t recognize in yourself.
Don’t give up too quickly. Every skill takes time to grow before it becomes a true talent.
The Power of Courage and Creativity
In a society where everyone is chasing the same goals, the courage to discover and develop your own path is what sets you apart. Grades matter, yes — but they are not the whole story. Your creativity, resilience, and ability to nurture your personal gifts will matter even more in the future.
So if you’ve ever felt trapped in the rat race, pause for a moment. Look within. Ask yourself what you enjoy, what excites you, and what challenges you want to overcome. That is where your talent lies waiting to be discovered.
And once you’ve found it, nurture it with passion. Because in today’s world, being “just like everyone else” is not the way forward — being uniquely you is.
