I Took the Road Less Traveled By

Every now and then, we are all faced with a fork in the road of our lives. Sometimes the choice is difficult, sometimes it does not call for much thought. At times, we do what others would do. But occasionally, we pause, take a deep breath and make an unconventional choice.

I completed my MBA from one of India’s premier Business schools and predictably, embarked on a rewarding career in Human Resources with a large international bank. I had been doing well, had earned accolades for my work and had often been told that I would go a long way. I was trusted by my seniors, respected by my peers and admired by the young blood I hired.

It had taken years of effort and commitment to build the life I had made for myself. I was also performing well. The easiest thing to do was to continue down that road.

Yet, my heart was not in it.

Letting go of all of that to pursue a career in writing, was not an easy decision. Yet, it was something I needed to do to be true to myself.

I let go of the identity I had created for myself.
I bade goodbye to the relationships I had formed.
I turned my back on the substantial monthly pay-packet that so far, had been my biggest security.

I am still struggling along the new path I have chosen for myself. It is a difficult journey I have undertaken. It is, after all, the road less traveled by.

Yet, I wouldn’t give it up for anything! Today, I am my own master. I am making a living pursuing my passion. I no longer look out with yearning at the beautiful hues of the sky at dusk, from behind the glass walls of my cabin.

I have time for myself- to pursue my interests and take care of my well-being. I read, I dance, I meet new people. I have more time for my family, for my loved ones.

I feel myself grow every day!

My thoughts are echoed well in Robert Frost’s moving words:

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”