I'm Manan Pansari

I'm Manan Pansari

Lessons from Failure: What Baking Has Taught Me About Perseverance

“Ever tried juggling flaming torches while balancing on a tightrope? That’s kind of what balancing baking, MUN, and my other passions feels like—minus the burns but with plenty of flour.”

Life often feels like a high-wire act, especially when you’re passionate about multiple pursuits. For me, managing my love for baking, diving into Model United Nations (MUN), and keeping up with other interests isn’t just a challenge—it’s a fulfilling journey.

Embracing Chaos 

When I first started juggling these passions, my schedule was often packed, and it was easy to feel overwhelmed. However, I learned that embracing the chaos rather than resisting it was crucial. Whether experimenting with a new baking recipe or preparing for a MUN debate, approaching each task with a positive mindset helped me stay grounded. Lesson 1: Perfection isn’t always achievable or necessary; focus on enjoying the process and staying present.

Mastering Time Management 

Effective time management became a vital lesson. I used a combination of digital tools and traditional planners to keep track of deadlines and commitments. Breaking down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks and prioritizing them based on importance helped me stay organized. Lesson 2: Breaking tasks into manageable chunks and prioritizing them helps maintain organization and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Setting Realistic Goals 

Setting realistic goals was another key lesson. Whether perfecting a baking technique or preparing for a MUN conference, I learned to establish clear and achievable objectives. Lesson 3: Setting practical goals avoids overloading yourself and ensures each passion receives the attention it deserves.

Flexibility 

Flexibility proved to be essential. I had to adapt to unexpected changes and seize new opportunities without added stress. Lesson 4: While a structured routine is important, being adaptable helps manage multiple interests effectively. 

Prioritizing Self-Care 

Balancing multiple passions can be demanding, so I made self-care a priority. Setting aside time for activities that rejuvenate me—like reading or taking a walk—was crucial. Lesson 5: Prioritizing self-care helps maintain energy and enthusiasm for each passion.

Leveraging Support Networks 

An invaluable lesson was the importance of a support network. Friends, family, and mentors provided encouragement, perspective, and assistance. Lesson 6: Relying on a support network keeps you accountable and motivated. 

Celebrating Small Wins 

Amidst the hustle, I made it a point to celebrate small victories. Whether it was a successful batch of cookies, a standout MUN performance, or progress in a personal project, recognizing these achievements kept me inspired. Lesson 7: Celebrating small victories reinforces the joy of pursuing passions and maintains motivation. 

Balancing baking, MUN, and other interests is undoubtedly challenging but incredibly rewarding. The biggest surprise has been discovering that managing multiple passions not only keeps life exciting but also enriches it in unexpected ways. Each passion adds a unique flavor to my life, making the journey of juggling them all a joyful and fulfilling adventure.

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