Life’s major shifts have followed me like the persistent claws of karma, each one shaping my path and pushing me towards new horizons. These changes, born of both choice and circumstance, have almost always revolved around my career, a constant thread woven through the tapestry of my existence.

My yearning for independence first led me to Cape Town, a daring move that uprooted not just me but also my family. It was a dramatic leap into the unknown, a bold declaration of my autonomy and a testament to my unwavering desire to carve my own path.

Fueled by this same yearning, I took the plunge into entrepreneurship, throwing caution to the wind and starting my own business. For ten years, I thrived in the whirlwind of self-reliance, building a life where I was the master of my own destiny. However, the claws of fate intervened in the form of a global economic downturn, forcing me to confront the true cost of independence. My business became unsustainable, and the tax burden became overwhelming. With heavy hearts, I sought refuge in the stability of conventional employment, accepting a consultancy position.

The shift back to salaried work was nearly as momentous as venturing into entrepreneurship itself. Though I had traded some independence for security, I found solace in the values that had always guided me: independence, learning, and making a positive contribution. With less freedom to chart my own course, I channeled my energy into making a meaningful impact within the confines of my new role. The debt incurred during the economic downturn became a constant companion, a reminder of the sacrifices made and the lessons learned. While complete recovery may remain elusive, I find solace in the courage it took to chase my dream, even if it meant a temporary retreat.

My return to salaried work wasn’t without its own perks. I embraced the stability and structure it offered, utilizing its benefits to shield my family from the anxieties of uncertainty. Through it all, I held onto the tenacious spirit that had always propelled me forward, weathering both triumphs and setbacks with unwavering determination.

As I stand at the precipice of another turning point, the year ahead demands a renewed focus on frugality. It’s time to simplify my life and prepare emotionally for the day retirement beckons. Whether I possess the skills and resources to navigate that phase remains to be seen, but I face it with a cautious optimism. While I don’t foresee any major career shifts on the horizon, I hope to cultivate my writing skills and build a stronger online presence, resources that may prove invaluable in the years to come.

Life’s claws may have carved their marks, but they have also sculpted me into the resilient individual I am today. I embrace the journey, the lessons learned, and the uncertainties that lie ahead, knowing that with each step, I continue to write my own story, one filled with the courage to chase dreams, the wisdom to adapt, and the unwavering spirit to carve my own path.

© Jurgens Pieterse, All rights reserved. 2023