We Are Happy And We Know It Fortunately, none of these guys have any regrets. Natasha is happy that her life is no longer split into what she does for a living and what she does for fun.
“There is an unexplainable pulse in advertising. I learn something new every day and in different subjects. In fact, while I was working on the vaccine account, I learnt more about vaccines, than I learnt in my 10 years in medicine,” says Mohan.
For Aditi Govitrikar, a shift in career meant a change in personality and paying more attention to her appearance. She says, “I have to think what I wear every time I step out. As a doctor, I need not have cared.” Nevertheless, from a shy, introverted person, Aditi turned into a friendly and confident individual who won the Mrs World crown for India in 2001.
For Shilpa, a new profession brought fame, glamour and, of course, more money. But it also allowed her more spare time and an opportunity to pursue interests like acting, drama and music.
The restaurant business for Nikhil has meant no time for squash and tennis, less time to socialise, or even sleep. Though he admits to making less money than what he would have made as an investment banker, he has no regrets.
Ramani, opines, “Transitions are never smooth. However, one makes trade-offs. Some amount of philosophy and some amount of acceptance of reality should combine to give you the will to excel in any circumstance. That is the difference between an ordinary and an extraordinary life.”
The Success Mantra Changing careers is not hard but to make it through, guts, desire and passion are essential according to Nikhil. “Be a go-getter, have drive and when you believe in something, go for it. Take a chance. Give it a shot. And, leave behind the fear of the unknown,” he adds.
Cautions Shilpa, “Be absolutely sure and convinced. Change your profession because you want it, and not because your family or boyfriend wants you to. Prepare yourself mentally, start from scratch and then work yourself up.”

“Let go of your fears and just do it,” prods Natasha. Adds Ramani, “Sometimes you don’t call the shots. You may have chosen a career but you may shift. However, in whichever career you are in, perform to your best. Never lose heart.”
“Believe in yourself and just go for it. You’ll be happier with this choice,” believes Mohan.
So, if your heart is singing a different tune, just listen. Dare to succumb to the new melody. For it may lead to the discovery of a new chord.
Got comments or questions? E-mail us at femina@timesgroup.com with ‘strategies — just do it’ in the subject line.