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.

Christine Lopez

I would say I am doing what I was born to do. I grew up in a family that loved to entertain and feed people. Cooking was how we connected. It was how we showed love. I learned everything in the kitchen with my mom, at her restaurant, and at home. Read more>>

Steven Elowe

Doing what I was born to do — rather than what I was told to do, really defines what I’m trying to say about beliefs. I felt for most of my life that being the best at what I was ‘told to do’ was going to bring me success. Read more>>

Jhesus “Yizus” Aponte

I’m finally doing what I was born to do but it took me years to unlearn what I was told to do. Where I come from, talent is celebrated but also doubted. People love you, but they also warn you: “Be realistic. Don’t dream too big. Read more>>

Ines Ridane

I truly believe that I’m doing what I was born to do. I come from a culture where it might be hard for a woman to embrace her femininity the way I do it. We all have different ways, and I know that when we choose mine, we face a lot of judgement. Read more>>

Alexa Pontello

I’m definitely doing what I was born to do. Styling has always felt like it was in my blood. I grew up in a very stylish family. My great grandmother was known for her extensive fashion jewelry collection, very similar to Iris Apfel, but my mom is my ultimate muse. She shaped my eye for fashion, and we share the exact same taste. Read more>>

Mary Anderson

I am doing what I was born to do. People in my life have had, and still have so many opinions on what and who I should be. There is no way I couldn’t be a makeup artist and living in Los Angeles. I have wanted to live here since I was 5. Read more>>

Jordan DIANDY

I would say both. I’m very close to my parents, and their guidance has always been important to me. They taught me discipline, respect, and the value of education — lessons that still shape my decisions today. At the same time, I’ve learned that part of growing up is discovering who you are meant to be. Read more>>