“Understand: those who’ve also gone for their dreams will never think you’re crazy for doing the same. Only the ones who are desperately trying to fit in will have an opinion about the sacrifices you’re making to transform your life.”

Light Watkins

Soon enough, you have to communicate your dreams and plans to others. Be prepared as this is when you face some serious resistance. You will encounter some people who are very excited for you and supportive. But you will meet many people with deeply ingrained beliefs about what a “good” career is, and they will not understand your move.

The inevitable conversation

In my case, I was walking away from a safe and steady job in accounting. A “good” job in the eyes of many. But I was walking towards something more creative, purposeful, and ultimately more “me”—a risky move in the eyes of many, but something I could no longer avoid.

Isn’t it riskier to stay in that “good” job which is making us miserable?

When people would enquire about my career as an accountant, they would say things like “Ooh great job, money man”, “you must love numbers”, or “You must help with my tax”.

Cue vomit inside my mouth. I felt like a fish out of water. This wasn’t me or what I wanted to be. How did I even get here?

Have you ever felt out of place in your career? Like other people with no experience seem to find what you do fascinating, based on some cultural ideal? But you, knowing the details of what actually goes on, feel sick.

A new problem

I have been facing a new form of self-doubt and imposter syndrome lately. I never thought it would be so hard to try and communicate with well-meaning family members that I left my old job to pursue a dream. Many cannot understand why I would walk away from a secure traditional job like accounting. It seems like madness to them.

Have I lost the plot?

No, I actually feel more alive and engaged than ever now on this new path.

It’s great when you come across a fellow explorer on the path to a meaningful vocation. They light up with excitement and support. Whereas when you cross paths with someone who never took a risk and always played it safe, they get defensive and shoot holes in your aspirations.

For a while, I was massively watering down my dreams. I thought about covering it up and maintaining the status quo. But that only made me more unhappy. Now I am leaning in and having some fun with it.

Reflection

Embrace who you are and what you want to become.

Your tribe will find and stand by you.