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.

Mim Chowdhury

I’m doing what I was born to do. Growing up in a conservative country like Bangladesh, self-expression often felt like a quiet rebellion — something you dreamed about, not something you lived. But deep down, I always knew there was more waiting for me. Moving to the U.S. gave me the space to explore who I truly am. Read more>>

Amber McCants

I’d say I’m doing a bit of both. After college, I took a job that pays the bills and keeps some money in my pocket, as a lot of people do. I didn’t think that my work had anything to do with my life as an artist, considering that it’s a standard customer facing desk job. Read more>>

Diana Nunez

I truly believe I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do. Over the years, I’ve tried so many different things, and honestly, I used to feel ashamed for never fully sticking with any of them. I’ve invested time and money into pursuits I never imagined returning to. Read more>>

Kaden Tranum

I believe I’m doing what I was born to do. What God created me to do. This path wasn’t handed to me by anyone else. It was something placed on my heart, something I felt deeply called to pursue. Read more>>

Micah Crée

I can say with full confidence—I was born to do this. Music has been a part of me since the moment I entered the world. One of my earliest memories is being just three years old, sitting in my car seat, and hearing Alicia Keys’ debut single “Fallin’” on the radio. Without hesitation, I opened my mouth and sang along, word for word. Read more>>