The Unconventional Approach

My life has been a tapestry of unexpected twists and turns, defying conventional norms, and carving my unique path, which I questioned ever turn.

Unlike the prescribed paths often set for me of becoming a doctor or pharmacist, my career trajectory has been a mosaic of experiences: from managing cost large-scale projects in the engineering sector to teaching yoga across Europe, from constructing obstacles in New York, to now working in software.

I have spent a lot of my life being told what I should and shouldn’t be doing. Shouldn’t be working construction where I’m the only girl.  I should just grow up already and get married already and have kids. I shouldn’t be traveling around the world. I should move back to the midwest to be closer to family. I shouldn't change careers so much. I should stick with one and work really hard at moving up.

As a first-generation American and the youngest among siblings, straying from the expected trajectory was daunting. The more I tried to get to that path my parent's wanted, the more and more lost I got.

I got so lost in my head, in my heart, in my whole journey. I was feeling so much heartache and rejection of trying to find “the one”. The constant pressure of my family, that I got to the point of depression. I felt that if I couldn’t live up to the expectations of my family, I was a disappointment to them. I was so in my head I was a disappointment to myself.

The Unplanned Journey

My journey was not meticulously planned but rather a series of serendipitous events that unfolded organically. A pivotal moment came when I pursued a yoga teacher training in Spain, a decision fueled by a desire for personal fulfillment and a break from societal pressures. This transformative experience altered my perspective on life.

This experience allowed me to find the emotions inside and let it out. It allowed me to be okay to talk. While growing up, I didn't have a voice nor opinion, the experience abroad helped me find my voice.

Sometimes I feel the cards are stacked up against me being a first American Vietnamese American, and growing up, I was taught to not talk about things that weren’t perfect, or shameful. My goal here is to talk about things that we normally don’t talk about.

As I embark on this journey of sharing, learning, and growth, I invite you to join me. Let's navigate life's complexities with courage, vulnerability, and an open mind.

Please subscribe in the meantime if you'd like to stay up to date and receive emails when new content is published!