Whenever I transition to a new environment, I take time for self-reflection and engage in thoughtful introspection. Composing this concise blog post is one such self-reflection.

In a new place or a company often requires starting all over again; old job titles, contacts may not be relevant. You are out there building new contacts, navigating new systems and bureaucracy, proving yourself all over again.

 I was new to the system and language when I moved to Germany. A good friend once asked me if I felt demotivated to start all over again. My answer was no. I don’t get demotivated because I am not defined by the things I don’t have control over, but rather by my experiences and life lessons.

At that time, it was already my 4th country where I lived for an extensive period of time, so I had learnt enough to know what true independence is.  Whatever I don’t fully own or am not in control of is always temporary. Like the job titles, it can be taken away. True independence or self-worth doesn’t come from holding on to things; it comes from knowing who you are without them.

Always remember, A sense of selfhood is not borrowed; it is developed and cultivated over time. True freedom comes when you no longer need the world to validate your worth. When you’re there in that moment, give your best, and when it’s time to move forward, walk with utmost humility and unshaken.