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.
Todd Lien
This question resonates deeply with me because for much of my life, I was doing what I was told to do. I was told I was good at piano, so I practiced endlessly, competed, and collected trophies. I was told to become a doctor by my traditional Taiwanese family, so before college even began, I committed to pre-med and declared a major in biochemistry. Read more>>
Dr. Tara Rasta
I am absolutely doing what I was born to do. This work feels so natural to my soul it lights me up. I feel most alive when I can unravel the mystery behind someone’s illness, when a patient who once relied on a wheelchair begins to walk again, or when I discover a new way to help the body come back into balance. Read more>>
Joe Abitol
I honestly believe this is what I was meant to do. I actually had the option to become a doctor and everyone was pushing me toward medical school, but growing up around the jewelry world, my heart just kept pulling me in that direction instead. Read more>>
Neziah Nesbeth Jr.
I’m doing what I was born to do. As an entrepreneur, I naturally inspire others to explore entrepreneurship or take that first step toward building something of their own. That’s why I know I’m on the right path. I’m doing what I truly want to do. I’ve always had a business mindset. Growing up, I sold hats, candy, and merch throughout middle and high school. Read more>>
Paris Baillie
I actually do feel like I am finally doing what I was born to do. I was a very creative and strange kid, and stop motion animation requires all kinds of strange creativity. I loved theater, dance, photography and painting. Read more>>
Ilana Kohanchi
I’m very fortunate to say that I am doing exactly what I was born to do. It took a lot of disappointing a lot of people, but following my dreams about my acting career, was the only thing I ever did against all advice and wishes of others. I was told to do literally anything else, but I didn’t, and I’m infinitely happier for it. Read more>>
Jonathan Redavid 
That’s one of those questions that opens more doors than it closes — and maybe the truth is, you only really know the answer at the very end, when you look back at your life and feel what it all meant. For me, I believe time reveals purpose. Read more>>
