"Chasing Dreams: Balancing Passion and Practicality"

Have you ever felt the adrenaline rush of chasing your dreams, only to realize that the path to pursuing your passion is fraught with challenges beyond measure?My life transformed the moment I embraced adventure sports. It all began with a simple love for running, then escalated to the thrill of riding, and eventually led me to the daring world of mountaineering. As my passion transitioned from one sport to another, it demanded more than just time and money. Unlike fleeting adventures that culminate in a day or two, mountaineering is a sport that tests your patience and resolve unlike any other.The conquest of a major mountain summit demands a commitment of at least a fortnight, sometimes stretching to an arduous two months. The staggering costs involved in such expeditions range from anywhere between Rs. 2 lakhs to Rs. 45 lakhs, depending on the chosen peak. The notion of abandoning a stable job to pursue one's passion may seem idyllic in theory, but the reality is far more daunting. While quitting may afford the luxury of ample training time and freedom to indulge in various pursuits, financing such expeditions becomes a pressing concern. The answer lies in one's savings, yet the question looms – how long can these savings sustain the pursuit? Rejoining the workforce post a hiatus may entail months of job hunting, with no guarantee of securing a well-paying job at the end of the quest.When contemplating the prospect of relinquishing one's job, myriad other considerations come into play. Who will shoulder the responsibility of the family and its expenses? In a society where men often bear the primary burden of providing for their families, the issue becomes especially pertinent. While I, personally, am unburdened by such responsibilities, my husband's unwavering support has been instrumental in my quest to finance my passions, be it through sponsorships or endeavors.With over 12 years of professional experience under my belt, having attained everything I set out to achieve, I can assert with certainty that one can indeed have it all, provided one is willing to put in the work. Responsibilities such as work, marriage, family, finances, or any other aspect of life should never serve as an excuse for not pursuing one's true desires."Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone's journey is different."