The Age of Almost - By Aiden Haffajee

Written By: Aiden Haffajee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aiden Haffajee presents "The Age of Almost," a compelling entry in the poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece navigates the complex landscape of self-discovery and the pressures of modern life. Aiden's insightful composition delves into the contradictions and expectations that define our journey through youth and beyond, creating a resonant and thought-provoking exploration of becoming.

About the Work

"The Age of Almost" masterfully captures the essence of internal conflict and societal expectation. Through its balanced narrative, the poem highlights the nuances of identity, urging readers to embrace contradictions and the chaos of growth. Aiden uses vivid imagery and a rhythmic flow to convey the push-pull of desires and responsibilities, ultimately advocating for a harmonious blend of aspirations and reality.

The Age of Almost

Original Submission by Aiden Haffajee

The Age of Almost

Be free run wild, say yes to everything.

But be careful don’t make mistakes you’ll regret. Travel light, don’t settle down, chase sunsets and strangers. But start building.

A career. A legacy. A family.

Don’t wait too long.

Find yourself, but don’t take too much time.

Time is money.

Money is power.

But don’t sell your soul for a paycheck.

You’re not your job.

But make sure your job is your passion.

But don’t let passion burn you out.

Balance is key.

But so is sacrifice.

Be single.

Love the freedom, your space, your silence.

But don’t get too comfortable.

Fall in love.

But don’t lose yourself.

Share your world.

But don’t make someone else your world.

Give them everything.

But keep something for you.

Work out every day.

Move your body, lift heavy, feel strong.

But don’t get obsessed.

Don’t count macros.

Life’s too short not to eat the damn cake.

Eat clean, whole foods, low-carb, gluten-free. But don’t diet. That’s toxic.

Love your body.

But sculpt it.

Be confident.

Stand tall, own every room.

But stay humble, no one likes arrogance.

Speak up.

But not too loud.

Be assertive.

But not aggressive.

Be soft. Be fierce.

Smile more.

But stop performing.

Learn everything.

Podcasts, books, mentors.

But don’t act like you know it all.

Ask questions.

But don’t seem lost.

Fake it til you make it.

But be authentic.

Say yes to new opportunities.

But know your boundaries.

Don’t be a people pleaser.

But don’t be selfish.

Say no.

But not too much.

Post that photo.

But not for attention.

Be real, raw, vulnerable.

But keep some things private.

Don’t overshare.

But don’t be distant.

Be seen.

But don’t seek validation.

Live in the moment.

But prepare for the future.

Think long-term.

But don’t forget to breathe.

Romanticize your life.

But be realistic.

You are too young to know better.

But too old not to.

And when it all feels like too much,

they’ll tell you:

“This is the best time of your life.”

So why do you feel like you’re drowning?

But maybe that’s the point.

Maybe becoming isn’t clean, or clear, or kind. Maybe your teenage years are meant to break you open, until you finally understand

that you don’t need to choose a side.

You can be a contradiction. You can be chaos and calm. You can want love and space. Success and slowness. Freedom and roots.

Silence and song.

You can be in progress. Not lost.

Not late.

Just… becoming.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, provides a prestigious platform for writers and poets worldwide to showcase their talents. This celebrated event embraces diverse voices and artistic expressions, fostering a community of creativity and literary excellence without the constraints of boundaries.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Aiden Haffajee for contributing "The Age of Almost" to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece enriches the collection with its profound insights and relatable themes. Thank you, Aiden, for sharing your voice and vision with us.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.