I FOUND MYSELF!

“Worrying is using your imagination to create something you don’t want.” —Abraham Hicks

I am happy to say that I have moved to a new city, which means I can finally take a moment to breathe! I have lived in three different cities in a span of four years, so I’m no stranger to the art of moving – but it never really gets easier! There were a lot of obstacles I have had to deal with moving from one city to another.

Twenties are the most confusing and annoying phase. Most of us are completing our education and gearing up for a new phase of life.

My life was a big question mark at certain stages. At the age of 12 my family shifted to a new city and that was the first migration. I struggled a lot and took a year to get used to it. I used the time to introspect and found what I truly am!  I spent most of the time scribbling, doodling and somehow lost interest in academics. My mom took me to a weekly painting class and I learned a lot from there. I participated in competitions in school and outside and won many prizes. After completing grade 12, everyone was eager to hear what I was going to specialize in. My parents were so supportive and gave me the freedom to choose what I like. I took up animation and graphic design and thereafter did my Masters in Graphic Design. Everyone, except my parents were very negative about my decision.

At the age of nineteen, I conducted a solo Warli and African Tribal life exhibition which was like a dream come true. The best part was that it was very successful and well-received. It was then that everybody started to appreciate me and there was no looking back. Even as I pursued my Masters, I started taking on freelance work and went on to join an advertising company as a designer and thereafter became the Creative Head.

It was time and yet again, I had to move to a different city. This time even my dad did not support my decision. One fine morning I packed my bags and started the journey and thankfully my hard work and risk paid off and I got placed in a Digital marketing company. The good news is that I’m bringing my parents over to stay with me!

My message to the young girls who like me have been through those confusing teenage years to learn to be self-reliant and independent. Do things alone so that you will be able to survive in any situation. But be ready, it’s not a walk in the park, it’s more of a hike through the mountains; challenging and hard at times but the view is absolutely worth it, I promise!

The author, 24 year old, NIKITHA PAULSON is a graphic artist. She has used The Wonder Women World as a platform to voice her thoughts especially on getting through the confusing teenage years and discovering what she truly is passionate about.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Wonder Women World.