Although, I firmly believe in the uniqueness of everyone’s life experiences, I do think there has to be a common set of things that nudge us to be more us or help us grow.
These common threads are often interwoven within normative structures such as formal education, employment, and other societal obligations that most of us have to adopt, some of us follow it to the t, some choose to add their own flair, to either retain their uniqueness or use the norms to build something only for themselves. I belong in the second category and the following life experiences of mine have helped me to fulfill this vision
- Leaving home as a teenager for higher education: Leaving home as a teenager for higher education is a significant life event in one’s life. It’s a period filled with equal parts excitement and apprehension, as you venture into the unknown while leaving the comfort and security of home behind. This experience taught me independence and self-reliance, as I navigated the challenges of living away from my parents for the first time. Quarterly visits home became cherished moments of reunion, offering a much-needed dose of familial love and support that fueled me to persevere through the academic and personal challenges of college life.
- Staying by myself: Living independently, whether as a paying guest or in a hostel, provided me with invaluable life lessons. It taught me the importance of self-sufficiency, time management, and interpersonal skills. From grocery shopping to managing household chores ( Hello, Splitwise), I gradually learned to take charge of my own life and create a sense of home away from home. Living with roommates also taught me the art of compromise and cooperation, as we navigated shared spaces and responsibilities, fostering lifelong friendships in the process.
- Managing expenses and utilities while living alone: Being solely responsible for managing expenses and utilities while living alone was a crash course in financial literacy( it took me a long time to ace it though). From budgeting my income, splurging on gastronomical experiences to learning to paying bills on time, I quickly realized the importance of fiscal responsibility. I added the much needed element of investing a tad bit later! But it taught me to differentiate between needs and wants helped me prioritize spending and cultivate healthy financial habits that continue to serve me well in adulthood.
- Job hunting and finding what worked for me: The journey of job hunting was filled with its share of highs and lows, but each rejection and success contributed to my personal and professional growth. I still remember my first mock interview conducted during my under grad where I was scared into oblivion and could only respond in Yeses and Noes. I resolved to get better, and I did, eventually. The process taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of perseverance in the face of adversity. Exploring different career paths allowed me to discover my passions and strengths, ultimately leading me to find a career that aligned with my interests and aspirations.
- Not shying away from seeking therapy: Embracing therapy was a transformative experience that allowed me to prioritize my mental health and well-being. It taught me the importance of self-reflection and self-care, providing me with invaluable coping mechanisms to navigate life’s challenges. Through therapy, I learned to confront and address underlying issues, develop healthier coping strategies, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and resilience.
- Traveling alone: Traveling alone opened up a world of possibilities and self-discovery. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to embrace new experiences and cultures with an open mind. Navigating unfamiliar territories alone made me appreciate myself even better. It also allowed me the freedom to enjoy my own company, something that I have always struggled with.
- Reading books: Books have served as mentors, guiding me through life and offering valuable insights and perspectives. They have broadened my horizons and sparked my curiosity about the world. Whether delving into fiction or non-fiction, each book leaves an indelible mark on my journey of self-discovery and growth.
- Working Out: Working out has not only strengthened my body but has also instilled in me a sense of discipline, perseverance, and self-belief that impacts me beyond the confines of the gym. From the humble beginnings of home workouts back during school days to eventually embracing gym memberships whenever my budget allowed, each session of exercise became a sanctuary for self-improvement and resilience-building.
So, these are some of my life experiences that have shaped me up considerably, but there are countless others that have acted as cornerstones for me to propel myself forward on the path of self-discovery and development.
Fingers in symphony 