Unconventional Careers: Ottawans Who Left Stability for Passion

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Early Expectations and Education
3. The Safe Job and the Urge for Something More
4. Starting "It's Not That Deep" Podcast
5. Connecting with People and Exploring Life's Questions
6. Taking the Plunge: Starting a Media Company
7. Meeting Others Who Have Made Left Turns
8. Alicia's Left Turn Story: From Government Cubicles to Running a Gym
9. Advice for Taking Your Own Left Turn
10. Akeem's Unique Left Turn Story: Working with Worms
11. The Catalyst for Change and Making the Jump
12. Advice for Making an Out-of-the-Box Left Turn
13. Conclusion

Chasing Dreams: Inspiring Left Turns and Unconventional Paths

Have You ever felt that your life was veering off in the wrong direction? That's exactly what Deepak Sharma felt while working a secure government job in Canada. Despite societal expectations and the allure of stability, Deepak had an undeniable urge to explore something more. This led him down a path of self-discovery, podcasting, and ultimately, starting his own media company.

1. Early Expectations and Education

Growing up as an Indian immigrant in Canada, Deepak always had high expectations for himself and his family. While he didn't pursue the traditional careers of a doctor, engineer, or lawyer, he embarked on a Journey to study business at the University of Ottawa. Little did he know that this academic pursuit would Shape his future in unexpected ways.

2. The Safe Job and the Urge for Something More

After completing his education, Deepak found himself accepting a safe and cushy job with the federal government. On the surface, this seemed like a dream come true, with its steady income, pension plan, and benefits. However, Deepak couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more out there for him. He longed for adventure, exploration, and a deeper connection with people from around the world.

3. Starting "It's Not That Deep" Podcast

In 2019, Deepak took a leap of faith and started his own podcast, aptly named "It's Not That Deep." Initially, the podcast served as a means to document his own journey and figure out his life's purpose. However, it quickly became much more than that. Through engaging conversations with people who were also grappling with life's big questions, Deepak found a new perspective on the world and his place in it.

4. Connecting with People and Exploring Life's Questions

The individuals Deepak encountered on his podcast greatly influenced his outlook on life. Their stories opened his mind to new possibilities and made him realize that he was not alone in his search for purpose. These Meaningful connections reinforced his desire to explore, take risks, and make a difference in the lives of others.

5. Taking the Plunge: Starting a Media Company

At the age of 25, Deepak decided to take an even bigger leap of faith and start his own media company. With the support of his business partner, Jamie Lee, Deepak embarked on a grand adventure to meet other individuals who, like him, had taken the road less traveled. His mission: to share their inspiring stories and empower others to follow their own dreams.

6. Meeting Others Who Have Made Left Turns

One of Deepak's first encounters was with his former cubicle mate, Alicia. Both having worked in the government, they bonded over their shared dissatisfaction with their jobs. Alicia's story took a different direction as she and her partner, Sungi, left the government to open their own gym. Their journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion and building a business around it.

7. Alicia's Left Turn Story: From Government Cubicles to Running a Gym

Alicia and Sungi's left turn story began with candid conversations about their dissatisfaction with their government jobs. Alicia's passion for nutrition and her desire to help people lead healthier lives led her to leave the public sector and go back to school. Armed with a diploma in Health Sciences, she and Sungi took the plunge and opened their own gym. Their bravery and determination serve as an inspiration to others who are considering making their own left turn.

8. Advice for Taking Your Own Left Turn

Reflecting on their own experiences, Deepak and his guests offer valuable advice for those contemplating a left turn in their own lives. The overriding message is to prioritize passion and fulfillment over societal expectations. By doing what you love and leveraging your strengths, you can Create a more meaningful and satisfying life.

9. Akeem's Unique Left Turn Story: Working with Worms

Among the inspiring stories shared on Deepak's Show, one that stands out is Akeem's journey. Akeem, with an engineering and renewable energy background, found himself dissatisfied with his role in healthcare consulting. Driven by his love for the environment and already an avid vermicomposter, Akeem launched 'Box of Life.' His venture aimed to teach people about vermicomposting and provide attractive composters to make the world a better place.

10. The Catalyst for Change and Making the Jump

For Akeem, the catalyst for change came while reading "The Alchemist" during a flight. The book made him realize that his Current path was not aligned with his true calling. This realization, along with a deep Sense of purpose and desire for environmental activism, led Akeem to take a bold step towards a more fulfilling life. Despite the challenges and potential family reservations, he chose to pursue his passion for earthworms and make a positive impact on the world.

11. Advice for Making an Out-of-the-Box Left Turn

Akeem's story serves as an inspiration for those considering a left turn that may seem unconventional or clash with societal norms. He advises individuals to focus on their passion and contribution beyond simply earning a paycheck. By introspecting, seeking advice from others who have made similar career shifts, and pursuing their true calling, they can find true fulfillment and Blend work and play in a harmonious way.

12. Conclusion

In a world where conformity and stability are often praised, the stories of Deepak, Alicia, Sungi, and Akeem provide a refreshing perspective on the power of taking a left turn. Their journeys exemplify the idea that true happiness and fulfillment come from following your dreams and pursuing what you're passionate about. So, are you ready to make your own left turn?

Highlights

• Deepak Sharma's journey from a secure government job to starting his own media company
• Alicia and Sungi's left turn story: leaving the government to open a gym
• Akeem's unique path: working with worms and promoting vermicomposting
• The importance of prioritizing passion and fulfillment over societal expectations
• Advice for those considering a left turn: pursue what you love and blend work and play

FAQ

Q: How did Deepak Sharma's podcast change his perspective? A: Deepak's podcast allowed him to connect with individuals who were exploring life's big questions, which significantly influenced his worldview.

Q: What inspired Alicia and Sungi to open their own gym? A: Alicia's passion for nutrition and a desire to help others live healthier lives propelled her and Sungi to leave their government jobs and start their own gym.

Q: How did Akeem make a left turn working with worms? A: Akeem's love for the environment and vermicomposting led him to start 'Box of Life' to teach others about the benefits of vermicomposting and provide attractive composters.

Q: What advice do Deepak and his guests offer for making a left turn? A: They emphasize the importance of focusing on passion, leveraging strengths, and seeking fulfillment beyond societal expectations.

Q: What can we learn from these left turn stories? A: These stories highlight the significance of pursuing one's dreams, finding fulfillment, and making a positive impact in unconventional ways.