For six years, I proudly carried the badge of a UN worker. It was a dream job—one that allowed me to witness the raw power of humanitarian work, cross continents, expand my skills, broaden my horizons, and contribute to something meaningful. Initially, I was captivated by the excitement of the challenges, the rewards, and the mystery of where I might end up next. I embraced it all with an open heart and mind. But as time passed, a nagging voice began to whisper: Was I truly making a meaningful impact?
Like a caterpillar encased in a cocoon, I sought growth and transformation through external experiences: new countries, new operations, different roles. While I yearned for a more profound impact, I overlooked the potential for inner growth and deeper self-discovery.
Across continents—from the heart of Rome to the deserts of Jordan and the highlands of Ethiopia—I was immersed in a world of immense humanity and compassion. Yet, a sense of insignificance lingered, as I questioned the depth of my individual contribution to this grand humanitarian endeavor.
In Ethiopia—a vibrant country navigating a harsh reality—I unexpectedly found calm amidst the chaos. This solitude deepened my cocoon of introspection, forcing me to confront a truth I had long avoided: it wasn’t about titles or prestigious job descriptions. It was my creative spirit yearning to break free.
But where do I begin?
The signs of misalignment were everywhere: uninspired mornings, a lack of role models who truly resonated, a hollow feeling despite contributing to a worthy cause. Yet amidst the growing disillusionment, sparks of passion began to ignite: the joy of uplifting others, witnessing courage in action, and immersing myself in creative outlets like sketching, dancing, writing, and photography. These sparks became my secret fuel—a longing that surpassed fleeting moments of relief.
Over time, the disconnect between my passion for creative expression and the mundane realities of my role became impossible to ignore. Once I consciously decided to see things as they were, a cascade of truths about myself began to surface.
I knew it was time for a drastic change, but leaving the familiar path behind was terrifying. It meant saying goodbye to a comfortable identity, a predictable future, places I called home, and people who had become family. Yet the itch for change was relentless.
So, I took a leap into the unknown, embarking on a thrilling new chapter. This journey is far from over—it’s a dynamic quest for potential and purpose. While I can’t claim to have fully transformed into a butterfly yet, I am savoring the process of growth and the promise of what lies ahead.
This process requires a level of vulnerability, trust, and faith that I’ve never experienced before. It’s a phase filled with exploration—but this time, I’m not just exploring new places, but the depths of my soul and purpose. It’s messy, exciting, and a little terrifying all at once, yet I’m finding solace in listening to my inner voice.
This isn’t a call to quit your job or a fairytale of overnight transformation. It’s a reminder that the greatest discoveries often lie beyond our comfort zones. It’s about embracing uncertainty, seeing the unknown as a playground for experiments instead of a place to fear.
It’s about listening to the whispers within—the ones urging you to shed layers of skin, even if you spent years building them. It’s knowing when to celebrate and honor the past, thank it for its lessons, and leap into the endless possibilities ahead.
Most importantly, it’s about finding your most authentic self—even if it means leaving behind everything you thought you knew.
Are you ready to embrace the unknown and embark on your own journey of self-discovery?
