That idea from Simon Sinek’s The Infinite Game has been sitting with me lately.

Not because I have figured out where I’m going.

Quite the opposite.

Because I’m beginning to understand that there may never be a point where we have everything figured out.

There will always be another challenge, another responsibility, another person to understand, another lesson to learn.

And perhaps that is what makes the journey meaningful.

Recently, after finishing work, I travelled to Camberley for an evening commitment.

It was only one small part of everything going on in life.

But on the way back, I found myself thinking about how much these seemingly small leadership responsibilities have been teaching me.

Not about managing tasks.

Not about having authority.

But about people.

Leadership starts with how we approach people

The more responsibility I take on, the more I realise that leadership is often found in the smallest interactions.

The way you approach someone.

The way you speak to them.

The way you listen when they disagree with you.

The way you respond when something doesn’t go according to plan.

The way you give feedback.

And perhaps most importantly, the way you receive feedback.

Because leadership is not about always being right.

Sometimes someone else sees something in you that you cannot see yourself.

Sometimes feedback challenges your assumptions.

Sometimes it makes you uncomfortable.

And sometimes it is exactly what you needed to hear.

I’m learning that you don’t have to agree with every piece of feedback to learn from it.

You simply have to be willing to pause and ask:

“Is there something here that can make me better?”

You can’t lead people without understanding people

Everyone brings something different to the table.

Different experiences.

Different personalities.

Different expectations.

Different ways of communicating.

And that’s what makes leadership both difficult and rewarding.

You cannot approach everyone in exactly the same way and expect the same result.

Someone might need encouragement.

Someone else might need clarity.

Another person might simply need someone to listen.

Leadership is learning to recognise those differences.

It is understanding that people are not problems to solve.

They are people to understand.

Getting everyone in the boat

I’ve started thinking about leadership in a very simple way:

Get everyone in the boat.

You don’t need everyone to row in exactly the same way.

You don’t need everyone to have the same personality.

You don’t even need everyone to agree on everything.

But you do need people to understand where you’re going and feel that they have a place in getting there.

That’s where trust matters.

That’s where communication matters.

That’s where empathy matters.

A leader isn’t simply the person holding the map.

A leader is someone who helps everyone believe that the journey is worth taking together.

The Infinite Mindset

This is why the idea of the Infinite Game resonates with me.

In a finite game, there is a winner and a loser.

There is a beginning and an end.

A scoreboard.

A final result.

But life and leadership don’t really work that way.

You get a promotion — and then there is another challenge.

You complete a project — and another one begins.

You achieve something you worked incredibly hard for — and eventually you ask yourself, “What next?”

The goal isn’t to win once.

The goal is to keep playing.

To keep learning.

To keep improving.

To keep building something meaningful.

And perhaps most importantly, to help other people continue their journey too.

The small moments are shaping us

That evening in Camberley was just one moment.

But leadership is made up of moments like that.

A conversation after work.

A difficult discussion.

A piece of feedback.

A decision you weren’t completely sure about.

Someone asking for help.

Someone trusting you.

Someone challenging you.

Someone succeeding because you gave them a little encouragement.

None of these moments necessarily feel significant when they happen.

But over time, they shape us.

They change how we communicate.

How we listen.

How we respond.

How we handle pressure.

How we understand people.

And eventually, they shape the kind of leader we become.

I’m still learning

I still get things wrong.

I still have conversations I replay in my head afterwards.

I still receive feedback that makes me stop and think.

I still have moments where I wonder if I could have handled something differently.

But I’m starting to see those moments differently.

They aren’t signs that I’m failing.

They are reminders that I’m still learning.

And I hope I never stop.

I don’t want to reach a point where I believe I have mastered leadership.

Because the moment we think we have nothing left to learn is probably the moment we stop growing.

I want to keep meeting people who challenge my thinking.

Keep listening to perspectives different from mine.

Keep learning from mistakes.

Keep improving the way I communicate.

Keep helping people feel heard.

And keep becoming a little better than I was yesterday.

The game is still in progress

Maybe that is the biggest lesson I’m taking from the Infinite Game.

There is no final version of us.

There is always another chapter.

Another lesson.

Another person who will teach us something.

Another opportunity to make a difference.

So whether you lead a large organisation, manage a small team, work independently, or are simply trying to become better at what you do every day — the journey is still happening.

You don’t need to have everything figured out.

You don’t need to be the best person in the room.

You just need to stay willing to learn.

To listen.

To grow.

To bring people with you.

Because maybe leadership isn’t about reaching the top.

Maybe it’s about how many people become stronger because they walked alongside you.

And that journey?

It isn’t finished.

I’m still playing.

Still learning.

Still growing.

And the game is still in progress. ♾️

And today, three years later, I want to share this story for someone who might be somewhere on the journey I once found myself on.

Maybe you’ve just arrived.
Maybe you’re still looking for that first opportunity.
Maybe you’re sitting in a room somewhere, wondering if everything you gave up to come here will eventually be worth it.
I know that feeling.

The decision to come here wasn’t something I suddenly made at the airport. The idea had been sitting in my mind for a long time, even while I was working in India.

I wanted international exposure.
I wanted to step outside my comfort zone.
I wanted to see what I was capable of when everything familiar was taken away.

And honestly, I was quite confident that I would manage.

What I didn’t know was how much this journey would change me.

From being a Master’s student trying to find my way, to navigating the uncertainty of getting sponsored, to eventually finding my place working in the NHS Digital— this journey has been anything but straightforward.

There were so many applications.

So many interviews.

And so many “Unfortunately…” emails.

I applied again.
I got rejected.
I prepared again.
I got rejected again.

And after a while, the rejection doesn’t just sit in your inbox.

It starts sitting in your mind.

Am I good enough?
Am I doing something wrong?
Will things ever work out?
Maybe I’m not meant for this.

There were days when I was tired of trying.

Tired of calculating money.
Tired of thinking about rent and bills.
Tired of worrying about work and my future.
Tired of pretending everything was okay.

And sometimes, the hardest part wasn’t the problem itself.

It was having to deal with it alone.

I missed my parents.

More than I ever really said.

I missed home.
I missed familiar faces.
I missed having people around who knew when something was wrong just by looking at me.

Sometimes I’d be on a video call with my family, smiling and saying, “Yeah, everything is good.”

And then the call would end.

And suddenly, it was quiet again.

But somehow, I kept going.

Not because I always knew what I was doing.

Sometimes I kept going simply because stopping wasn’t an option.

Along the way, I met some incredible people.

People who helped me.
People who believed in me.
People who made a foreign country feel a little more like home.

And I lost people too.

Some friendships slowly disappeared with distance.
Some people became memories.
Some chapters ended without the goodbye we thought we would have.

And that’s life, I suppose.

Not everyone who starts the journey with you is meant to finish it with you.

But the dream stayed.

Kingston → Surbiton → New Malden → Norwich → Guildford, Surrey.

Different places.

Different people.

Different struggles.

Different versions of me.

Looking back now, I realise something.

I came to the UK thinking I was here to build a career.

But somewhere between the rejection emails, late nights, lonely days, new friendships, unexpected opportunities and countless moments of doubt…

I was building myself.

I learned how to make decisions without always having someone to tell me what to do.

I learned how to handle disappointment.

I learned how to start again.

I learned that sometimes courage isn’t feeling confident.

Sometimes courage is being scared, exhausted and uncertain…

and still taking the next step.

I learned to appreciate the small wins.

The job offer.

The first salary.

The first time something finally worked after trying ten times.

The message from someone saying, “Well done.”

The quiet moment when you realise:

“Maybe I’m actually going to be okay.”

And today, three years later, I want to write this for someone who might be going through what I once went through.

For the international student sitting alone in their room.

For the person refreshing their inbox after another job application.

For the person who has been rejected so many times that they have started questioning their own worth.

For the person who smiles when their family asks, “How are you?” because they don’t want them to worry.

For the person who came here with a dream…

but is beginning to wonder if the dream was worth the struggle.

I just want you to know:

You are not behind.

You are not failing because things haven’t happened yet.

You are not less capable because someone said no.

And you don’t have to have your entire life figured out today.

Sometimes, all you need to do is take one more step.

Apply for one more job.

Send one more email.

Learn one more skill.

Walk into one more interview.

Try one more time.

Because you never know which “one more time” is going to change everything.

Three years ago, I arrived here with a dream.

Today, I look back and realise that the person who landed at that airport three years ago wouldn’t recognise the person I have become.

And honestly?

I’m proud of that.

Not because everything worked out perfectly.

It didn’t.

I’m proud because I kept going when it didn’t.

I survived the days I thought would break me.

I learned from the things I never wanted to experience.

I grew through the moments I didn’t understand.

And somehow…

I’m still here.

Still learning.
Still growing.
Still dreaming.
Still becoming.

So, if you’re somewhere in the middle of your own journey right now, please keep going.

One day, you’ll look back at the version of yourself who was struggling to make it through…

and you’ll realise:

They were stronger than they ever knew.

Three years in the UK.

Three years of dreams.
Three years of uncertainty.
Three years of lessons.
Three years of becoming.

And I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything.

The journey isn’t over.

In fact, I think it’s only just beginning.

“Be good with people. That will take you far in life.”

That’s something my father used to tell me when I was younger.

At the time, I didn’t think much of it. It sounded like one of those simple life lessons adults say without explaining why it matters. But over the years, I started to understand that it wasn’t just advice — it was a way of living.

Because my father didn’t just say those words. He lived them.

I still remember watching him interact with people. It didn’t matter who they were — a neighbour, a stranger, someone at a shop, or someone he had just met for the first time. He had this natural ability to connect. Not in a loud or impressive way, but in a calm, respectful, and genuine way.

People seemed comfortable around him. Conversations felt easy. There was no effort to “network” or “build connections.” It just happened naturally.

As a child, I thought that was normal.

Now, I realise it was something much deeper. It was emotional intelligence. It was presence. It was understanding people beyond surface-level interaction.

Learning Without Realising

Growing up, I didn’t consciously try to learn from him. But I was observing everything.

How he listened more than he spoke.
How he remembered small details about people.
How he treated everyone with the same level of respect.

At the time, I didn’t know these were skills. But slowly, life started showing me their value.

Networking Is Not What I Thought It Was

For a long time, I misunderstood networking.

I thought it meant meeting people, collecting contacts, or being in the “right circles.”

But over time, my understanding changed completely.

Networking is not about how many people you know.

It’s about how deeply you connect with the right people.

It’s about trust.
It’s about consistency.
It’s about showing up as your real self and allowing relationships to grow naturally.

The Role People Played in My Journey

When I look back at my journey, I don’t remember achievements first.

I remember people.

The ones who guided me when I was confused.
The ones who encouraged me when I doubted myself.
The ones who gave me opportunities I wasn’t ready for — but grew into.

There were moments in life when I felt uncertain about my direction. Times when things didn’t feel clear. But somehow, at those exact moments, the right people appeared.

Not because I went looking for them perfectly.

But because I had built relationships along the way that mattered.

Choosing the Right Circle

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is this:

Your environment shapes your thinking more than you realise.

The people you spend time with influence your mindset, your confidence, and your direction in life.

That’s why choosing the right circle matters.

Not every connection deserves your energy. Not every relationship helps you grow. And not every conversation leads you forward.

Some people drain you. Some confuse you. Some hold you back.

And some… quietly change your life for the better.

The challenge is learning the difference.

You Don’t Chase People

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over time, it’s this:

You don’t chase people.

You focus on becoming someone who naturally attracts the right people.

When you grow, when you stay genuine, when you treat people with respect — life has a way of bringing the right connections to you at the right time.

And those connections often become the turning points in your journey.

Still Learning

I’m still learning what it means to build meaningful relationships.

Still learning how to show up better for people.

Still learning how deeply human connection can shape a life.

But one thing I know for sure:

My father was right.

Being good with people really does take you far in life.

People see the return and ask the same question:
Why did it take so long?
Why the delay?
Why didn’t you come back earlier?

I usually smile and say, “Life happened.”

But the truth is heavier than that.

Life wasn’t easy. And becoming someone stronger took time.

The last few years quietly broke me and rebuilt me at the same time. They tested my patience, my resilience, and my belief in myself in ways I never imagined. There were long stretches of uncertainty. Days where loneliness felt loud. Nights where I questioned every decision I had made.

Some days, just getting through the day felt like an achievement.

Somewhere in the middle of all of it, when things felt the most confusing, I realized something that changed me forever:

It was never me versus the world.
It was always me versus me.

I didn’t stay away because I couldn’t come back. I had opportunities. I had chances. I had moments where returning home would have been easier, safer, and far more comfortable. But I stayed.

I stayed because I knew I wasn’t ready yet.

I stayed because I wanted to come back as someone stronger — not perfect, not successful by anyone else’s standards — but grounded, grown, and honest with myself. I stayed to build a life slowly, brick by brick. To work on my skills. My discipline. My mindset. My courage.

That choice came with a cost.

There were days filled with self-doubt and nights filled with unanswered questions. Days when progress felt invisible and effort felt wasted. I cried more than I ever admit. I failed in ways I don’t talk about. I went through situations that hardened me, softened me, and reshaped me all at once.

But this is what life teaches you, if you let it.

Life doesn’t move in straight lines.
It moves in circles, pauses, breakdowns, and quiet turning points 🔄

Sometimes growth looks like being left behind while everyone else moves forward. Sometimes it looks like silence when you desperately want reassurance. Sometimes it looks like choosing discomfort over familiarity. And sometimes, it looks like delaying happiness — trusting that when it finally arrives, it will be real and lasting.

When my flight took off from Heathrow, I cried.

I cried not because I didn’t want to leave.
And not because I regretted staying back.

I cried because I knew how much it took to get to that moment.

I cried for the sacrifices no one saw.
For the discipline that cost me comfort.
For the nights I chose growth over rest.
For the moments when giving up would have been easier — but I didn’t.

Even though I had chances to visit home earlier, I stayed. I chose to invest in myself — in learning, in work, in growth outside the classroom, and in becoming stronger mentally and emotionally.

And then I arrived.

Back home.
Back to the place that made me.
Back to my parents.

Even if it’s only for a short while, seeing them smile and laugh felt like a reward life had been quietly saving for me. Being around family again — hearing familiar voices, feeling that sense of belonging — reminded me why I endured everything in the first place.

Life didn’t suddenly become perfect.

I’m still hustling.
Still figuring things out.
Still running the long race toward stability, purpose, and meaning.

The grind hasn’t stopped — but something inside me has softened.

Today, I smile.

I smile because I didn’t quit when things got hard.
I smile because I stayed when walking away would have been easier.
I smile because I chose growth over comfort — again and again.

I’ve learned that sometimes progress looks like delay. Sometimes preparation happens quietly, in the background. And sometimes, coming home isn’t about arrival at all — it’s about finally understanding why you had to stay away.

It’s funny how life changes — slowly at first, and then all at once. When I first moved to the UK, I had no idea what to expect. I just knew I was chasing something bigger. A life of purpose. A career that meant something. A version of myself I hadn’t met yet. Looking back now, the journey feels like a map of growth — city by city. I didn’t expect the journey to lead me through five cities, new roles, and some of the biggest personal and professional growth of my life.

But here I am — still standing, still learning, still becoming.

🏡 A Map of Moments: From Kingston to Guildford

I started in Kingston — wide-eyed, uncertain, a student trying to find my place in a new world. Then came New Malden, where things started to shift and I learned to stand on my own feet. Surbiton followed — and with it, my first deep dive into leadership and connection through Toastmasters.Then came a big change — I moved to Norwich, taking a leap into a new NHS role. A new city, new people, and fresh challenges. Life picked up pace. Everything felt fast, intense, and real.

And now… I’m in Guildford. A new city, a new chapter. Different streets, different skies — but the same passion, still burning.

🎯 Starting a New Chapter (Again)

One of the biggest updates — I recently stepped into a new role as a Digital Infrastructure Engineer with the NHS. It’s a role that keeps me on my toes, and one that feels meaningful every single day. I’ve always found purpose in solving real-world problems, but in healthcare, it’s different. You’re not just working with systems — you’re supporting clinical teams who are literally saving lives. Whether it’s emergency departments, theatres, or wards — if something goes down, it’s not just a ticket to close, it’s time to step up. And that keeps me grounded.

🚗 Passed My UK Driving Test!

Some personal news too — I finally cracked my UK driving licence!
Honestly, it was one of those goals I kept putting off. But between studying, lessons, and practice, I finally did it. Driving here felt like learning all over again, but now I’ve got the freedom to explore (and finally not rely on trains for everything 😅).

🎤 Toastmasters Has Been My Anchor

Amidst all the change, Toastmasters has been my constant. It’s more than just a public speaking club for me — it’s been a space where I’ve grown, connected, and challenged myself in ways I never expected. We recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Surbiton Speakers, and I was honoured to receive the Best Contribution Award — something I never imagined when I nervously gave my first speech.

Since moving to Guildford, I joined the Guildford Toastmasters club, stepped into the role of VPPR, and was lucky enough to be selected for the District 91 PQD team. Being part of that leadership space has been exciting, a little scary, but full of purpose.

🤝 People Come and Go — and That’s Part of the Journey

One thing I’ve had to learn the hard way with all the moving — not every friendship lasts. You meet so many people when you’re constantly relocating, and not all of them stay. Some bring support and good energy. Others bring ego or disappear when things change.

That used to bother me a lot. But now, I just try to focus on the people who do show up. And more importantly, I try to show up for myself. You learn a lot about who you are when you’re building your life in new places without a constant social circle. You become your own friend first. That’s been one of my biggest lessons.

❤️ Doing What I Love

Despite all the changes — one thing’s clear: I’m truly enjoying my work.
Every challenge I take on, every team I support, every issue I help fix — reminds me why I chose this path. Being part of something bigger than yourself, especially in the NHS, is humbling.

You’re not just maintaining systems — you’re helping people help others.
That gives every long day meaning.

🌱 Looking Ahead, Grateful for What’s Behind

So here I am — in a new city, in a new role, still figuring things out, but genuinely proud of how far I’ve come. It’s not perfect. Some days are tough. But I’m learning to keep showing up, keep growing, and keep trusting that every season — even the messy, uncertain ones — are shaping me into something stronger. If you’re in a place of transition, just know: it’s okay not to have it all figured out. You don’t have to rush it.

Every step forward counts — even the quiet ones.

Back in January 2025, I returned to London for my graduation ceremony. To be honest, I didn’t expect it to hit me the way it did. You know that feeling when you return to a place that holds so much of your past? The streets, the memories, everything just feels so familiar and strange at the same time. Can you relate? It’s like stepping into a part of your life that’s always been there, but you’re looking at it from a completely different perspective.

The big surprise? I was selected to deliver the Vote of Thanks at the ceremony. Me? The one who used to feel so awkward speaking in public. I remember reading that email, and I had to reread it about three times because I honestly thought it was a mistake. But no, it was real. It was happening. It was such a huge honor to stand in front of all my classmates, professors, and friends to express my gratitude for the journey we had all shared. It wasn’t just a speech for me — it was a reflection of everything I had gone through to get there. Have you ever had one of those moments where you realize how much you’ve grown? That was it for me. I was nervous, of course, but it was also an opportunity to feel proud of everything I’d accomplished.

While I was in London, I also made sure to stop by Toastmasters — which, let me tell you, is always a place that feels like home. I ended up delivering a speech on mentorship — something that’s always been close to my heart. Have you ever thought about how the people around you shape who you become? As I spoke about the mentors who have influenced me over the years, I was reminded of how important it is to give back and help others find their way. It made me realize, once again, how much we all need someone to guide us. That speech felt like a small way of passing on what I had learned.

But beyond all the speeches and ceremonies, the real magic of my trip came from spending time with friends. Life moves so fast, right? We get caught up in work, routines, and just keeping up with everything. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget the people who matter the most. I mean, when was the last time you truly caught up with your friends? I spent time reconnecting with those who have been there through everything. We laughed, reminisced, and just enjoyed being in each other’s company. It was the kind of time I didn’t know I needed but was exactly what I was craving.

And then came the moment when I had to head back home. As much as I loved being there, life called me back. And when I returned, I realized something — I had to take a step back from the things I used to be so passionate about. I had to take a break from writing, speaking, and the stuff that used to fill me with excitement. It hurt. Honestly, it stung. But have you ever had to let go of something, even for a short time, to focus on something else? It’s tough, but sometimes it’s necessary. We can’t always be on the go. Life has a funny way of teaching us to pause when we need it the most.

And you know what? It’s been okay. A little uncomfortable at times, but okay. I’ve realized that sometimes we need to step away from our passions, not because we don’t care about them, but because we need the space to grow and change. I know I’ll return to them when the time is right, but for now, I’m learning to embrace the pause. How do you deal with those moments when you need to step back? Do you feel like you’re missing something, or do you find peace in the break?

Looking back on everything, I’m filled with gratitude. For the graduation ceremony, for the chance to speak at Toastmasters, for the time with friends, and for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Life doesn’t always follow the timeline we expect, but isn’t that part of the beauty of it? We don’t have to have it all figured out, and sometimes, the best things happen when we let go of trying to control everything. Can you relate to that feeling? The letting go?

So here I am, in this new phase, just reflecting on everything that’s happened. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been real. I’m learning that it’s okay to pause, take a step back, and let things unfold at their own pace. And even though I’m not where I thought I’d be, I know this journey is taking me exactly where I need to go. Life, right? Always surprising us.

Passwords have been the backbone of online security for decades, but as we continue to face growing cybersecurity threats, the weaknesses of passwords are becoming more and more apparent. From phishing attacks to data breaches, passwords are often the easiest target for attackers. As a result, many of us are left constantly juggling complicated passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, which, while helpful, still leave a lot to be desired.

Enter FIDO (Fast Identity Online) security keys — a new way of thinking about authentication. I recently spent some time exploring FIDO security keys, and I have to say, the potential to completely overhaul how we think about logging into websites and apps is exciting.

What Are FIDO Security Keys?

FIDO keys are a hardware-based authentication method designed to replace traditional passwords. Unlike the usual approach, which relies on something you know (like a password), FIDO security keys are based on something you have — a physical device that verifies your identity using public-key cryptography.

Once registered with an online service, the FIDO key works as a unique identifier, proving your identity without the need to type in a password or rely on 2FA codes. You simply plug the key into a USB port or tap it near a device using NFC (Near Field Communication), and voilà — you’re authenticated.

Why FIDO Keys Are a Game-Changer

There are several reasons why FIDO security keys are so powerful:

1. No Passwords to Remember

Gone are the days of trying to recall countless complicated passwords. With FIDO keys, there’s no need to remember or manage passwords at all. Your identity is verified via the physical key, which you can carry around with you. It’s secure, and you never have to worry about password fatigue or forgetfulness again.

2. Phishing-Resistant Authentication

One of the biggest risks with traditional passwords is the threat of phishing. Attackers often trick users into revealing their login credentials through fake websites or emails. Since FIDO security keys don’t rely on passwords, this type of attack is virtually impossible. The authentication process is tied directly to the physical key, meaning there’s nothing for attackers to steal or spoof.

3. Faster, Seamless Logins

When using FIDO keys, logging in is incredibly quick and easy. No more typing in long passwords or waiting for 2FA codes to arrive via SMS or an app. With just a tap or a plug-in, your identity is verified, and you’re good to go.

4. Better Security Without the Hassle

FIDO security keys help eliminate the common pitfalls of traditional authentication methods. There’s no risk of password leaks, and because there’s no need for 2FA codes that can be intercepted, your accounts are significantly more secure. Plus, it’s all hassle-free — just a quick tap or insertion to authenticate.

Moving Toward a Passwordless Future

The convenience and security of FIDO security keys make it clear that we’re moving toward a passwordless future. Instead of relying on something as vulnerable as a password, we’re shifting to methods that are not only safer but also far easier to use. With FIDO keys, strong, passwordless authentication is no longer a concept — it’s something that’s becoming increasingly accessible.

While we’re not fully there yet, the growing adoption of FIDO security keys across platforms and services shows that this shift is happening. And for me, this is just the beginning of a much more secure, streamlined online experience.

Conclusion

FIDO security keys represent a significant step forward in cybersecurity and user convenience. By removing the need for passwords, they help address many of the vulnerabilities and headaches associated with traditional authentication methods. The combination of strong security, ease of use, and seamless login makes FIDO keys a technology worth exploring.

As we continue to evolve our approach to digital security, passwords may soon be a thing of the past, and FIDO security keys will be leading the charge.

The comment made me pause for a moment. It was raining heavily, and the wind didn’t make things any easier. But then I smiled and replied, “How can I skip something that’s made me who I am today?”

That’s the thing about Toastmasters — it’s more than just a club for me. It’s been one of the most transformative journeys of my life. Over the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of two incredible districts — District 121 and District 91. And now, after my recent move to Norwich, I’ve found my new home: Norwich Speakers Club, part of District 72.

Three years, three districts, one unchanging emotion: Toastmasters. ❤️

Last Thursday evening, after a long day at work, I was all set for my first meeting with the Norwich Speakers Club. It wasn’t just any meeting — it was a Christmas-themed special, and I was looking forward to experiencing the festive vibe and meeting new people. My plan was simple: grab a quick bite, catch two buses, and make it to the venue before the 7:30 PM start.

But life had other plans.

The first part went smoothly — a quick burger and fries at McDonald’s gave me some energy, and I had time to spare. But then the second bus got delayed. Panic crept in. I didn’t want to arrive late for my first meeting. So, I made a decision: I would walk. A 40-minute trek in the pouring rain. 🌧️

It wasn’t easy. The rain soaked through my jacket, and the wind tried its best to slow me down. But my excitement kept me going. When I finally arrived, what I found was nothing short of magical.

The room was beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, the atmosphere buzzing with laughter and camaraderie. It felt warm and welcoming, despite the cold and stormy night outside. The meeting was a delightful mix of speeches, celebrations, and festive fun. 🎄✨

I met so many inspiring people that evening. It reminded me why I keep showing up — no matter where I am, no matter the challenges, Toastmasters always feels like home. 🏡

As the meeting ended, I realized my journey wasn’t over. The rain was still relentless, and the nearest bus stop was far away. But as I walked another 40 minutes to catch the bus, I found myself smiling.

“Was it worth it?” I asked myself.

And without hesitation, I answered, “Absolutely. 😊”

Because when you truly value something, no obstacle — be it rain, fatigue, or distance — can stand in your way.

Why I Left London for Norwich : The journey that changed my perspective

When I first told people I was leaving London, the reactions were… well, let’s just say they weren’t what I expected.

“Jeevan, why would you leave London? Everything you need is here!”
“How can you move to a smaller city when London has so many opportunities?” 😯

I get it. London is a city that has everything. The energy, the opportunities, the diversity, and of course, that fast-paced life that never stops. It’s a place where dreams feel within reach and the connections are endless.

But here’s the thing. My time in London was short but meaningful. I came here for my master’s, and let me tell you, that year was a whirlwind. Meeting people from all over the world, attending events, workshops, networking with seniors — it was all part of a constant learning process. 🌍💬

Living in London was about more than just academics or career opportunities. It was about figuring things out on my own. Finding accommodation, moving houses, cooking meals, paying bills, managing a home — it was a lot of firsts. But every challenge taught me how to stand on my own two feet. 💪🍳💼

London pushed me. It made me stronger and more resilient. It taught me how to balance everything at once, how to focus under pressure, and how to tackle obstacles head-on. It was survival of the fittest, but it was also about thriving in a place that doesn’t wait for you to catch up. 🏙️✨

So, why did I leave? The answer is simple. Growth.

It wasn’t that London didn’t have opportunities, it’s just that I knew it was time to step out of my comfort zone. And that’s how I ended up in Norwich.

A New Chapter in a Quieter Place
The moment I arrived, it was like someone hit the pause button. The streets are quieter, the pace slower, and the overall vibe — calm. 😌 It was a big shift, and I’ll admit, there were moments of doubt. Was this the right move? Would I regret it?

But the more I settle in, the more I realize just how much I’ve needed this change. Norwich is giving me the space to reflect, to slow down, and to appreciate the little things. 🌳🌸

London taught me to hustle, to chase after everything. Norwich is teaching me to find balance, to be more thoughtful, and to savor the quieter moments. It’s not that one place is better than the other, it’s about what each phase in life offers. 📖✨

I’ve also got to give a shoutout to Ameesha, who helped guide me through this relocation. Her tips and advice made the transition so much easier, and I’m grateful for her support. 🙏😊

The Journey Continues
Do I miss London? Of course. But am I happy in Norwich? Absolutely. Life isn’t about staying in one place, it’s about evolving, learning, and finding your own path. 👣

Who knows what the future holds? Maybe one day I’ll be back in London, but for now, I’m exactly where I need to be. ✨

(Just taking it one step at a time and excited to see what’s next!)

Working at McDonald’s: More Than Just a Job 🍔

When I first started working at McDonald’s, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. The late-night shifts, the hustle and bustle of the restaurant, and the tiredness from balancing work with university life — it was a lot. Some days felt endless, and I’d be drained by the end of my shifts, only to wake up the next morning and do it all over again.

But despite all that, I learned so much. McDonald’s taught me how to be patient under pressure, how to stay calm when everything’s going crazy around you, and how to give my best, even when I didn’t feel like it. It wasn’t just a job — it was a test of character, and I came out of it with a lot more resilience than I had going in. The teamwork, the problem-solving, and even the customer service side of things taught me a lot about staying grounded. It wasn’t always easy, but it helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect.

Engage Education: Lessons Beyond the Classroom 📚

Alongside working at McDonald’s, I was also lucky enough to be part of Engage Education as a Teaching Assistant. This role took me into primary schools where I worked with kids, helping them with their learning. But what really made a lasting impact on me was my work with SEN (Special Educational Needs) students and adults.

Working with these incredible students was hands down one of the most emotional experiences of my life. Some days were tough — there were moments when I felt completely drained, or when I wasn’t sure if I was making any difference. But then there were the small wins — those little breakthroughs that reminded me why I was there in the first place. I saw students struggle, but also make progress in ways that were truly inspiring. The strength they showed in the face of challenges, their ability to push through, and their resilience really made me rethink the way I view the world. They showed me patience when I thought I didn’t have any left, and they reminded me that no victory is too small to celebrate. It was an emotional rollercoaster, but I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.

Looking Back: The Challenges That Shaped Me 💭

Leaving these roles behind is bittersweet. There were days when I felt completely exhausted, days when I questioned if I was doing enough, but through it all, I learned so much. I’m walking away from this experience with a deeper understanding of myself, a stronger work ethic, and a whole new perspective on life. The challenges I faced — whether it was juggling late shifts or supporting students through difficult moments — taught me more than I could have ever imagined. They taught me about perseverance, patience, and the power of small wins.

Looking back, it’s clear that everything I went through this past year has prepared me for whatever comes next. The tough days, the tears, the frustration — it all helped me grow into someone more resilient and ready for the next challenge.

Onward to the Next Chapter 🚀

Now that I’m leaving these roles behind and looking ahead to the next phase of my career, I feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. I’m excited about what’s to come, but I’ll always carry the lessons from this past year with me. The experiences I had, the people I met, and the challenges I overcame will stay with me as I continue to grow.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the hard days shape you. The challenges you face — whether it’s in your career, personal life, or something else — will build you into someone stronger. And as tough as it may seem at the time, those struggles are the ones that will push you forward.