Defying Conventional Career Paths

Ever felt the crushing weight of societal expectations dictating your career path? Imagine growing up in a world where becoming a doctor or an engineer is not just encouraged but expected. I’m Deepika, your host for "Inspired Life," and this season, we challenge the traditional norms that many of us grew up with in Indian society. Hear my own struggle and journey from the medical field to finding my passion in fitness, nutrition, and behavior science. This episode kicks off with powerful stories of individuals who dared to defy conventional career paths to pursue what truly makes them happy.

Meet Apoorva Lanka, a visionary artist who chose her passion for painting over a medical career, despite societal pushback. Hear from Nanita Praveen, a classical dancer who transformed her love for movement into a successful career as a yoga coach. And don't miss Pragati Mitta, who left behind a promising law career to become a renowned chef. Their remarkable journeys prove that true fulfillment often comes from following your own unique path. We’ll also explore the psychological and social impacts of career choices, highlighting how breaking free from societal expectations can lead to greater personal satisfaction and well-being. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that promises to inspire and empower you to chase your dreams, no matter how unconventional they may be.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:09

Hello and welcome back to the Inspired Life the podcast, where we delve into stories and insights that help you lead a more fulfilled and empowered life. I'm your host, deepika, and I'm thrilled to introduce you to a brand new season. Not a doctor or an engineer. Thrilled to introduce you to a brand new season. Not a doctor or an engineer. In this season, we are going to tackle a topic that's close to my heart and resonates deeply with an Indian society the immense pressure to become either a doctor or an engineer. For many of us growing up in India, these professions are often seen as the only pathways to success and respect. But what happens if you don't fit into these traditional roles? What if your passions and talents lie elsewhere? This season not a doctor or an engineer is all about challenging the conventional notions of success. We'll explore the societal expectations that shape our career choices and the stress that comes with these expectations. More importantly, we'll shine a spotlight on individuals who have dared to follow their own paths, pursuing careers that are not the usual run-of-the-mill professions, and have found success and fulfillment in their own rights. Let me share a bit of my own story and fulfillment in their own rights. Let me share a bit of my own story.

Speaker 1: 1:27

Growing up, I, too, felt the pressure to pursue a career in medicine. I even went for coaching for a few months before deciding that path wasn't for me. I didn't foresee myself studying for a decade and spending bucket loads of my parents' money, which wasn't easy to come by in my middle-class family. I chose microbiology in my undergrad and then was forced into a master's in medical microbiology. I wasn't allowed to take a break and figure myself out or get a job and see what's out there in the world. My parents knew what they were conditioned to believe. I had to have a master's, and getting into a prestigious college was a plus, which I did. Came out as the university topper only to realize the real world had no jobs, money or respect for the work I had put in. I spent the next decade trying various things teaching in a dental college, working in a hospital, in an MNC, working with NGOs and even trying my hand out at some small time businesses. In 2015, I ended up working in a health tech startup where I immensely enjoyed my work. In 2018, I decided to take a leap of faith, follow my passion in fitness, nutrition and behavior science. My background as a medical microbiologist gave me an upper hand, as I had an in-depth knowledge of the human anatomy, physiology and more. I knew my passion lay in helping people navigate their challenges. It wasn't an easy path, but following my heart led me to have three of my own little startups, and it's a decision I have never regretted. I'm lying. There are days I do wonder what am I doing to myself, but you know what I mean. It's been a joy.

Speaker 1: 3:03

Throughout this season. We'll hear from a diverse array of guests who have ventured into unconventional careers. We'll talk to artists, entrepreneurs, chefs, writers and more. These are individuals who have defied societal expectations and carved out their own niches, proving that success isn't limited to a few predefined professions. For instance, in our first episode we'll meet Apoorva Lanka, a talented artist who chose to follow her passion for painting despite the pressure to become a doctor. Apoorva's journey wasn't easy, facing skepticism and doubt, but today she's a successful artist with her work being recognized everywhere. We'll also hear from Nanita Praveen, a classical dancer turned yoga coach, a movement coach and so much more. We will hear from her a journey of being a classically trained artist, being a teacher and being a yoga coach. Now We'll also meet Pragati Mitta, a chef who left a promising career in law to pursue her passion in culinary arts. She is now the host of the Long Table, a gourmet pre-set seven course dinner event, and has a lot of other interesting projects coming her way. Their stories is a testament to the fact that true fulfillment often comes from following your passion.

Speaker 1: 4:22

In addition to these inspiring stories, we'll also delve into the psychological and social aspects of career choices. We'll discuss how societal expectations can shape our self-worth and identity, and how breaking free from these expectations can lead to greater personal satisfaction and mental well-being. We'll explore questions like how do you find the courage to pursue an unconventional career, what are the challenges and rewards of following a non-traditional path, and how can society evolve to support a broader definition of success? These conversations are not just for those contemplating their career choices, but for parents, educators and anyone interested in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for diverse talents and passions. I'm incredibly excited about this season because it's a topic that affects so many of us. Whether you're a student facing career choices, a professional considering a change or a parent supporting your child's dream, not a doctor or an engineer, offers valuable insights and inspiration Before we dive into the new season.

Speaker 1: 5:25

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners. Your support and feedback have been instrumental in shaping this podcast, and I'm grateful for the community we have built together. I encourage you to share your thoughts and stories with us as we embark on this new journey. Your experiences and perspectives are what make the Inspire Life a meaningful and enriching space. So join me, deepika, as we explore the vibrant and diverse world of careers beyond the traditional roles of doctor and engineer. Let's celebrate the courage to follow our passions, redefine success and inspire others to do the same. Stay tuned for the first episode of Not a Doctor or an Engineer coming soon. Thank you for listening to the Inspired Life. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share this podcast with others who might find it valuable. Until next time, keep following your heart and living your inspired life. See you soon. Some of the things we are talking here or have a story to share on this podcast? Email me at theinspiredlifeindia at gmailcom. This is Deepika and I thank you for listening.