Running Your Own Race

The first game, Red Light Green Light, conveys an important message about time management. Life is not a competition against others; it’s about competing with yourself. Instead of comparing your progress with others, focus on personal growth and becoming a better version of yourself daily.

Living Within Your Means

Regardless of how desperate a situation may seem, overspending can lead to dire consequences. Financial struggles often escalate into larger issues. An old Swedish saying goes, “He who buys what he does not need, steals from himself.” Seong Gi-Hun, the character struggling with debt and gambling, demonstrates how unchecked financial habits can lead one to take extreme risks.

Trust and Betrayal

Kang Sae-Byeok wisely states, “You don’t trust people because they’re trustworthy, you trust them because you have nothing else to rely on.” Trust often leads to betrayal from those we least expect. Low trust can hinder effective communication. Be cautious of those who may undermine your efforts; Ali’s tragic fate serves as a reminder of misplaced trust.

Wisdom Through Observation

The glass bridge game illustrates that being last does not equate to failure. It’s about learning from experiences. Those who were ahead faced challenges unprepared, while Seong Gi-Hun learned from their mistakes, allowing him to progress steadily and ultimately succeed.

Strength in Diversity

True strength lies in our differences rather than our similarities. In the tug-of-war, teams initially selected only strong men, overlooking the value of diversity. The series subtly critiques gender inequality, showing that when everyone is included and collaborates, intelligence can triumph over sheer strength.

Adapting to Change

A good start is meaningless without a solid strategy, and not all bad beginnings lead to failure. The old man’s strategic input during the tug-of-war highlights the importance of listening and thinking before reacting. Successful adaptation to change under effective leadership can set a team on a path to victory.

Prioritizing Mental Health

Mental health, often overlooked, gained importance during the global pandemic. The wealthy old man created Squid Game as a way to test humanity and fill a void in his life. It’s crucial to distance yourself from selfish individuals. Caring for oneself is not about being self-centered; it’s about ensuring that everyone’s needs are met.

Life is too short to engage in activities that don’t bring you joy. So, embrace your passions before they become mere games of survival.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections on Squid Game. I invite you to share your thoughts below—happy reading!

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