Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than we realize. With the benefit of hindsight, we asked some wise and experienced members of our community whether they think they are doing what they were meant to do or told to do.

Nilangana Banerjee

I was told to do a great many things — some spoken aloud, others whispered through expectation, tradition, and silence. I come from a culture where women are often shaped by the voices of others before they ever find their own — where obedience is praised, and reflection, curiosity, questioning, or dreaming too freely can be seen as rebellion. Read More>>

WALTER INO

Oh I definitely feel like I’m doing what I was born to do. I’m a musician through and through. Most people throughout my life know me as a musician in some shape or form. Read More>>

Jaelyn Clay

I am 100% doing what I was born to do. Art has always been my passion. I love color and I love to create art using it. Art has always been an area in the working field that most people don’t find very necessary or important but I think the complete opposite. Read More>>

Yuko Kyutoku

I would say that I’m living my purpose, which is to help people through therapy, art, and other creative activities. I love mental health, the arts, and creativity. I chose my path on my own. I’ve loved art since I was a child. I have also faced mental health challenges. Because of my history, I’m passionate about mental health, art, psychology, and creativity. Read More>>

Morgan De Witt

I believe to a certain extent, I was born to do this. This brand and everything in it has been an extension of my creativity (with lots of guidance, inspiration and professional advice), and no matter the future outcome of Salty Pop, I have chased a dream, given it my all, and learned more than I ever could have from working in a 9-5. Read More>>

Kate Oduh

I believe I’m doing what I was born to do. While it may not meet worldly standards, I only care about being in alignment with God’s will for my life. If I did what people told me to do, it would be disobedient to what I know God called me to do. Read More>>