The Day I Stopped Living for Others and Started Thriving - Personal Journey

For years, I felt stuck.

Torn between Desi traditions and Western ideals of success. Told to stay small, quiet, and grateful. I tried to fit into molds that weren’t meant for me.

It left me feeling invisible, unheard, and disconnected from myself.

Have you ever felt like you’re living someone else’s version of success? For years, I thought if I worked hard enough and followed the rules, I’d finally feel fulfilled. Instead, I felt lost.

Growing up in a Desi household, I was raised to believe that success came from humility, gratitude, and staying within the lines. Speak only when spoken to. Don’t draw too much attention to yourself. Do what’s expected—not what you want.

But then came the other side: Western ideals of success—the hustle, the promotions, the accolades. I wanted to succeed in both worlds, but no matter what I did, it never felt enough.

I remember one specific day. I had just landed a “dream job” by most people’s standards, but I felt more like a stranger in my own life. I’d checked off every box on someone else’s checklist. Yet, deep down, I knew I was meant for more.

That moment of clarity marked the beginning of my transformation. I realized I was living for others, not myself. And so, I stopped. I started asking myself what success looked like on my terms.

I embraced my dual identity—Desi values and Western ambition. I let go of the need to fit in and allowed myself to stand out. To dream big. To take up space.

It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

Lessons Learned:

Here’s what I discovered along the way:

1. Authenticity is a superpower. The parts of you that feel “too different” are the ones that make you unforgettable.
2. Fulfillment begins with alignment. When I aligned my career with my values, opportunities started to flow naturally.
3. You can’t live for others and thrive. Success that costs you your truth isn’t success at all.
4. Your voice matters. Breaking the cycle of staying small allowed me to help others find their confidence and clarity.
5. Your journey inspires others. Every step I took toward authenticity inspired someone else to do the same.

Results:

Once I started living unapologetically as myself:

• ? I transitioned through three major career pivots without losing momentum.
• ? I'm building a business that empowers others to redefine success on their terms.
• ? I turned confusion into clarity and doubt into confidence for countless clients.
• ? I found fulfillment beyond titles, paychecks, and external validation.

The awards, speaking opportunities, and magazine features? They were simply byproducts of stepping into my authentic self.

Closing Thought:

True success isn’t about titles or accolades. It’s about living in alignment with your values, your purpose, and your soul.

??? I share my full journey on my latest podcast: Owning Your Power: My Journey to Authentic Alignment

? What’s one step you can take today to live more authentically? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment or send me a message.