The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho: The Price of Success

The Price of Success Paulo Coelho's argument does have merit. Yes, everyone has a personal calling, but not all of us are able to achieve it due to our lack of courage. In most cases such as mine, fear is the root of all my problems; it shackles me. However, this is not the case for Santiago, in the novel The Alchemist, and with that I found exaltation. In the novel, Santiago manages to overcome all the obstacles that he happens upon whether it be internally or externally. The dilemma's that he encounters, I strongly identify with because I contend with them daily: the fear of responsibility, suffering and most of all the fear of failure.

The fear of failure is a frequent battle found within me. Often, because of this fear I struggle with self-belief, so much so that I hesitate to pursue something I desire the first time opportunity arises. Usually, I need to steadily muster up enough courage before seeking it.Consequently in some instances it is already too late. Fear of failure impedes my progression and in turn I lose sight of my aspirations. In the novel The Alchemist, the Alchemist tells Santiago during his final task, when he is asked to turn himself into the wind that nothing is impossible: "There is only one thing that makes dreams impossible to achieve: The fear of failure" (141). I find I am able to relate to Santiago in this situation due to my athletic history. Whenever, I try-out for a team I always feel anxious and nervous. "What if I am not good enough?" or "What if I do not make it?" are two questions I ask myself every time. I question my abilities and skills and everything that I have accomplished thus far is no longer comforting. I then convince myself that failure is inevitable and therefore do not bring fo...

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...g are all things that I have battled with throughout my life. Subsequently, I have learned a great deal. It is important to push through insecurities and instead of avoiding obstacles, try confronting them. The difference between an individual attaining their dream and another not is based on a matter of choice. Those with tenacity and drive will reach their truest potential because they are willing to endure the pain of it all. After reading The Alchemist, I have come to the realization that responsibility, pain and failure should not be shied away from; their character building and essential in order for me to reach my dreams. Everything with great value comes with a price and in the end anything is possible it is just a matter of deciding if it is worth the risk.

Works Cited

Coelho, Paulo. The Alchemist. 1. San Francisco: Harper Collins, 1993. 167. Print.