I had a great conversation with Prash Raval on his podcast, “Work Life No Balance”. In this candid discussion, we dove into my transition from my corporate job as a management consultant to building a thriving career as a working artist. No frills, no gloss, just an open conversation about my mindset, the challenges, and the reality of the path I’ve chosen.
Embracing the Shift
Transitioning from academia to management consultancy and eventually to a full-time professional artist wasn’t a seamless journey. I opened up about the personal challenges I encountered, such as imposter syndrome, the fear of judgment, and the struggle to redefine my identity from scientist to artist. It wasn’t all blissful moments in the studio; there were hurdles to overcome and self-discovery along the way.
Support and Safety Nets
We delved into the crucial role of my support system. Having some financial security and the safety net of my CV were pivotal. The trust my parents had in my decisions and the backup plans I had in place significantly eased the transition. Confidence played a pivotal role, making this intimidating shift more manageable.
Balancing Passion and Practicality
Even when you’re doing something you love, I think you’re still working hard. There’s just more fulfillment with it…
Malti B lee
The adage “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” doesn’t hold true for me. Even when you pursue your passion and become your own boss, hard work and dedication are indispensable. I shared my experiences in finding the delicate balance between passion and practicality, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout.
Finding Passion in Every Role
It’s about being mission-driven… What’s your mission? What’s your vision? There’s going to be a lot of hard work to get there, but keeping your mission & vision in mind helps.
Malti B lee
Is passion confined to a dream job? I vehemently disagree. I shared my perspective on finding fulfillment in any role by aligning your inner purpose with what you do. Understanding the ‘why’ behind our actions, even in seemingly mundane tasks, can transform our professional lives. Passion, I believe, is a mindset, not restricted to a specific profession.
Join the Conversation
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a corporate professional, or someone grappling with the passion versus practicality dilemma, this episode offers insights for everyone. I am here to share my learnings, discuss the struggles, and celebrate the victories. So, settle in with your favorite drink, press play, and let’s embark on this unfiltered conversation together.
You can find the interview on all major podcast streaming platforms (find the links here).
