Letting go.

Leaving a 20-year career wasn’t just about stepping away from a job that had become a way of life; it was about navigating the uncertainty and vulnerability that came with it. At first, the fear and discomfort of not having a clear direction were overwhelming. I had always prided myself on being busy, and suddenly, I was left with a lot of time and no obvious purpose. In my mind, I had gone from a ‘someone’ to a ‘no one.’

My initial reaction was to seek a similar role to my previous one, but deep down, I knew that wasn’t the answer. If given the choice, would I really choose that route again? While the rewards could be substantial, the stress and pressure were relentless. This isn’t unique to the world of finance; it applies to any job where success is measured by performance and there are external factors, in my case the markets, ready to throw a curveball at any time. I realised that returning to that world could push me to a breaking point, both mentally and emotionally. The decision I faced wasn’t just about finding a new job; it was about finding a new way to live, one that felt more sustainable and fulfilling.

The realisation that my future didn’t have to be a continuation of my past marked a monumental turning point. By letting go of the need to measure success by traditionally accepted standards and instead focusing on meaningful experiences, I opened myself up to a vast portfolio of new possibilities. That’s when the idea of a career in medicine began to emerge. It felt like a path that could offer a real challenge, allow me to help others, and provide a deeper sense of purpose while leaving a positive legacy on the world.

So, what did I learn from this part of my journey? Sometimes, you have to sit with the discomfort of not knowing what’s next. In that quiet space, free from the urge to fill the void, you can start to hear the ideas and passions that, until then, had been drowned out. Importantly, letting go of what you think you need can be the first step toward finding what truly matters. As Bruce Lee said, "It's not the daily increase but daily decrease. Hack away at the unessential."

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