She Strengthens

Rethinking the Future: From Career Obsession to Self-Discovery

For a long time, I was consumed by my future. At 11 years old, I had already mapped out my life, with my career as the central determinant. Every decision, every goal, and every aspiration revolved around my chosen profession. This fixation had its benefits – it motivated me to excel in school, network fearlessly, and build a impressive résumé. But as I grew older, I began to realize that there was more to life than just my career.

A Shift in Perspective

Recently, I’ve come to understand that my career obsession was not only exhausting but also limiting. I was so focused on doing that I neglected being. I didn’t take the time to think about who I wanted to become, what values I wanted to embody, and what kind of person I aspired to be. This realization was catalyzed by a quote from Diane von Fürstenberg: “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I always knew the woman I wanted to become.” These words resonated deeply with me, and I began to explore what it means to focus on being rather than just doing.

Learning from Others

As I delved deeper into this new perspective, I started to read more about people who embodied the qualities I admired. I devoured books, articles, and interviews, searching for insights into what drove them, what values they held dear, and how they navigated their lives. I discovered that these individuals were not defined by their careers, but by their character, their passions, and their principles. They were people who continued to learn, grow, and evolve, always striving to become better versions of themselves.

The Power of Trying

As I reflect on my own journey, I’ve come to realize that the most important thing I can do is to keep trying. Trying to be better, trying to learn more, and trying to become the person I aspire to be. This commitment to trying gives me a sense of purpose, a reason to keep going even when faced with obstacles and self-doubt. It’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about embracing the process of growth and improvement.

Embracing Uncertainty

I’ve also learned to embrace uncertainty. I don’t have all the answers, and I may not know exactly who I want to become or what my future holds. But I’m okay with that. I’m okay with not having it all figured out, because I know that I’ll continue to learn, adapt, and evolve. I’ll keep trying, and that’s what matters most.

A New Direction

My career is still important to me, but it’s no longer the only thing that defines me. I’ve shifted my focus from doing to being, from achieving success to becoming the person I want to be. This new direction has given me a sense of freedom, a sense of purpose, and a sense of optimism. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me, and I’m committed to continuing to try, to learn, and to grow.