Career Pivots: Embracing Uncertainty and Finding Opportunity

Life rarely moves in a straight line, and my career journey is a testament to that. From fitness professional to esthetician to economist, my path has been anything but traditional—but every twist and turn has brought me closer to a life that feels aligned with my true potential.

Rediscovering a Forgotten Dream

"Sometimes, the things we leave behind have a way of calling us back."

Years ago, I made the difficult decision to leave my undergraduate studies at The University of the West Indies (UWI) to focus on a budding career in fitness. At the time, I believed I had to choose one path over the other, lacking the discipline to pursue both simultaneously.

From leading Zumba classes in 2015 to celebrating academic success at the UWI graduation in 2024.

Though I found success in the fitness industry, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t tapping into my full potential. Completing my degree became a deeply personal goal, a chapter I needed to close to move forward fully.

Navigating the Challenges

"The journey was never easy, but I learned that the hardest paths often lead to the most rewarding destinations."

Balancing full-time work as an esthetician, a part-time role in fitness, and the demands of being a student stretched me to my limits. Scheduling conflicts, late nights, and the occasional bout of self-doubt tested my resolve.

What made it even harder were the voices of doubt—external pressures from those who questioned my decision to return to school. But through it all, I stayed focused, keeping my eyes on the bigger picture.

💡 Pro Tip for Career Pivots: Prioritize your time and energy on what truly matters. It’s okay to say no to distractions.

Finding Opportunity in Uncertainty

"When you step outside your comfort zone, you find opportunities waiting to meet you."

Networking became my secret weapon during this pivot. Serving as President of the Young Economists Association (YEA) opened doors I never could have imagined, including hosting my first webinar and connecting with one of my guest speakers, well-known economist Justin Ram. That relationship led to an internship that transformed my career trajectory.

The Road to Recovery: Young Economists' Association's 2020 webinar on responding to COVID-19, featuring a distinguished panel discussing economic strategies for recovery.

Conversations with industry friends and mentors also proved invaluable, offering guidance and reassurance when I needed it most.

Lessons from the Journey

This experience taught me that:

• Main Character Energy: You are the author of your story, so take control of your narrative.

• Reality is a Choice: Hard work and discipline can turn dreams into reality.

• Challenges Build Strength: Every obstacle prepares you for the next step.

• The Journey is Never Linear: Detours can lead to growth and unexpected opportunities.

• It Takes a Village: Surrounding yourself with supportive people is essential for success.

  
  

"Your journey won’t look like anyone else’s—and that’s what makes it uniquely yours."

Gratitude for the Path Less Traveled

"Looking back, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. Each step was worth it."

Today, I’m in a place I couldn’t have envisioned ten years ago. While I occasionally wonder where I’d be if I hadn’t left UWI back then, I know now that every step—both forward and backward—was essential.

My career pivot wasn’t just about changing fields; it was about embracing uncertainty, staying disciplined, and being open to new opportunities. It’s a journey I’m grateful for every day.

“This journey was never easy, but it was worth it.”