Selection Stories
‘I’ve started a new segment on my blog where I talk to individuals about their unique areas of expertise. First up is Priyanka Singh. Unlike me, who’s never been serious about my career and still doesn’t know what I want, Priyanka has shown immense dedication and hard work. Her journey—from dreaming big to achieving a successful career and living independently in a city like Bangalore—is truly inspiring. She’s known for her analytical thinking and unwavering determination. For discussions on career and life, I couldn’t think of anyone better to kick off this series. So, let’s get started to know what she thinks, and if her insights benefit you, that will be a valuable byproduct of this conversation!
Q1. Can you describe a typical weekday in Bangalore, especially a day in the life of an office-goer like yourself?
Priyanka: I wake up at 9-10 am, freshen up, and take a short walk. Then, I chat with my mom, and that’s my usual morning routine. After that, the maid arrives, and I have breakfast before leaving for the office at 12 noon. That’s my rush hour! I work for 7-8 hours in the office, and for lunch, I usually bring a home-cooked meal from my dabba (lunchbox). We play some indoor games like table tennis or board games during breaks. After returning from the office around 9:30 pm, I have dinner and watch movies or reels. That’s my typical working day!
Q2. You’ve changed locations several times for studies or work, what difficulties do people face when living away from home?
Priyanka: What I find most challenging is the lack of a support system, especially when I’m unwell and need someone to rely on. Additionally, it’s tough being away from my parents when they need me, and I feel like I’m missing out on precious moments with them.
Q3. What differences do you feel between your college time and the current college students?
Priyanka: I notice a substantial generation gap, despite being part of the same generation. Many young people today seem more focused on appearances and materialism, lacking a understanding of hard work and values. Additionally, I feel that we had a healthier fear of our parents, which is missing in today’s youth.
Q4. What advice would you give them?
Priyanka: Firstly, on average, educated people have a good lifestyle, Don’t get inspired by Some chaiwala or Vadapaw girl, they’re exceptions. Focus on getting an education and side by side if you want doing your own thing. Enjoy life and start saving, because compounding is magical, so start saving.
Q5. What are the three biggest purchases you’ve made with your own money?
Priyanka: I own an iPhone worth over 1 lakh, a gold bracelet valued at around 40,000 rupees, and I had also bought a phone for my mom.
Q6. What’s the smallest purchase that’s ever made a big impact on your life?
Priyanka: A chopper (Kitchen tool) and a pop socket (Mobile accessory) are small, inexpensive things that have had a significant impact on my life.
Q7. What little things make your day-to-day life happier?
Priyanka: When I bring joy to the people around me, do something good at work, savor delicious food, and appreciate many small things – that’s what life is all about, and that’s what I remember.
Q8. How much water do you make a conscious effort to drink every day?
Priyanka: I don’t really keep track of my water intake, but I’d say I drink about 1.5 liters a day, give or take.
Q10. After achieving financial stability, what kind of anxiety do I still need to deal with?
Priyanka: Even now, there’s a lot of anxiety, like being stuck in a rat race, wondering if what I’m doing is right or not, questioning life’s purpose, and on top of that, there are many small anxieties too, like whether I’ve turned off the gas or locked the door, so I still have to deal with anxiety.
Q11. What is the true meaning of independence to you?
Priyanka: Financial independence is important to me because I don’t want to rely on others. I want to be able to take care of myself and also help my parents. It feels good to be able to give them things and make them happy.
Q12. If you weren’t working in your current job, which career would you pursue and why?
Priyanka: If I weren’t in my current job, I think I would have loved a career in social media. I find it really engaging, and the feedback loop is similar to what I experience with my friends – when I share my story, it generates interest, and that’s what social media is all about! Alternatively, I would have also enjoyed a career in makeup, perhaps as a makeup artist, as it’s another area I’m passionate about.
Q13.Would you rather have flexible work hours or the ability to work remotely?
Priyanka: Working remotely allows me to stay with my parents and prioritize their health and well-being.
Q14. What’s the biggest realization you’ve had while working?
Priyanka: Don’t rely on just one thing to bring you happiness. A balance of good health, loving relationships, and family is equally essential. Avoid being too attached to material possessions; there’s more to life than that.
Q15. How do you cope with failure?
Priyanka: Failure can be disappointing and sad, but remembering that something better is on the horizon can be really helpful in coping with it. I learned this firsthand when I went through 7 grueling interviews in a row – the first 6 didn’t go my way, but I refused to give up hope. And then, the 7th one brought me the success I was waiting for.
Q16. What is life according to you?
Priyanka: I believe that a meaningful life is one where we do something so impactful that we are remembered even after we are gone.
———–Thank You———
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