Have you ever looked back at your childhood dreams and laughed at how differently life turned out? I certainly have. At school, I still remember being asked the question “what do you want to be when you grow up?” my classmates excited said they wanted to be a Doctor, Fire Fighter, Vet, and one wanted to be a rockstar!
As a youngster with stars in my eyes, I had it all mapped out: the prestigious job at British Airways, academic excellence, and a perfectly linear career path. But life, as it often does, had other plans.
Turn’s out there was a height restriction at British Airways, and being only 5’1″ I was destined for my feet firmly on the earth and not flying the skies like I had dreamed of…
The Reality Check
The first wake-up call came early. While I wasn’t the top student in class, I discovered something more valuable than natural brilliance: persistence. This became my superpower, though I didn’t recognise it at the time. Then came the job rejections – each one feeling like a personal indictment of my worth. The well-meaning but misguided advice to “be like others” echoed in my ears, suggesting that somehow, I wasn’t quite enough.
The Turning Points
But here’s where the story gets interesting. Instead of following the prescribed path, life led me down an unexpected route that proved far more rewarding. Two pivotal figures emerged at crucial moments:
First, there was this remarkable teacher. Not only did they see potential in me, but they also sparked something I never knew existed – the ability to write. Under their guidance, I published my first book, an achievement that still feels surreal.
Then came the interview that changed everything. Sitting across from a woman who, unlike others, saw past the conventional metrics of success. She offered me the job on the spot, a vote of confidence that resonated far beyond that moment.
Breaking Through Self-Imposed Limits
Perhaps the most significant victory was completing my Master’s degree. The voice in my head kept insisting I wasn’t capable, but determination proved louder than doubt. This achievement taught me that our biggest limitations often exist only in our minds.
Today, as a business owner working alongside inspiring HR professionals and entrepreneurs, I’m grateful for every “no” that led me here. Each rejection, each moment of doubt, contributed to building resilience and character that no straight path to success could have provided.
The Power of Reflection
Looking back, I’m thankful for not knowing how everything would unfold. Each experience, whether positive or challenging, offered valuable lessons that shaped both my professional journey and personal growth. It’s funny how the things that seem like setbacks in the moment often turn out to be setups for something better.
Yet, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m terrible at taking time to reflect on these lessons. It’s all too easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget how far we’ve come. Writing this post is actually my way of forcing myself to pause and acknowledge the journey.
Looking Forward
If you’re currently facing career uncertainties or feeling like you’re not measuring up to some imagined standard, remember this: your path doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Those detours and disappointments might just be leading you to something far better than what you initially imagined.
Success rarely follows a straight line. It’s messy, unpredictable, and often looks nothing like we planned – and that’s exactly what makes it beautiful.
What unexpected turns has your career taken? How have your “setbacks” transformed into stepping stones? Sometimes our greatest achievements come from embracing the unknown and trusting the journey, even when it doesn’t match our original script.
Natalie Ellis HR 