Photos taken during NYFW 2013

Around the time I finished high school, I told my parents I wanted to major in fashion. They disapproved. Just like that, my first attempt to pursue my dream failed. So instead of giving up completely on something I really love, I tried the second best thing: graphic designing – simply because aside from fashion, I love art and drawing.

I went through college with very little idea on what to do next in life. Everyone around me started to build their career as early as possible. As of for me, I couldn’t seem to wrap my head around the idea of sitting behind a desk all day, surrounded by cubicles. 

So, as I tried to figure out what I wanted to do in life, I tried two different things: becoming a brand consultant and (part-time) fashion blogger. However, as much as I love being a brand consultant, some time later my heart nagged me to turn the wheel around and choose fashion.

I made up my mind. I was eager to jump with both feet. I was prepared to say goodbye to impressive job title and secured monthly salary. Internally, I was ready.

But little did I expect that the ones pounding on my door were external resistances.

From questions like, “I know you like fashion, but are you sure you don’t want to try working full-time in some major companies? Because we are pretty sure you can do fashion as a side job.” To the undoubted challenges of “be realistic”.

At some point in life, we will stand at the crossroads where our heart points to one direction while other people point to another direction. Life will always offer us many decisions with no guidebook on how to make the best choice.

But here’s the truth: There will always be people who doubt, criticise, and overlook us for choosing one path. And the key is: to continue stepping forward, and eventually, we shall find our true supporters.

Everyone knows where I stand right now: I am doing what I’m passionate about, surrounded by the most amazing supporters anyone could ever dream of. It was certainly not an easy journey; but since then, I wake up each morning, knowing that I am on the right path. I am driven and excited. And I know I couldn’t do any better if I was not following my passion.

It wasn’t always easy. Some mornings are harder than the others. I have gained so many lessons and let go of so many precious things (which I will share in another post); but if I have to share one thing to those of you who are facing huge decisions in your life, here’s my advice: Follow your heart. Take that leap of faith.

Cliche.

But it holds true. Although I can’t say for sure what the outcome will be, but I believe in working hard, picking ourselves up after each and every fall, and never giving up. Show those people who say you can’t that you can, so that they will later question, “How did you do that?”

I truly believe that we are our own wisest advisor. Passion is our strongest suit to recognise the things we are meant to do in life. Do it. Let passion drive you. And then, work hard to become the best you could ever be and make your decision worth it.

Go ahead and crush your fears, overcome your doubts, stretch yourself, take that one leap of faith to be who you want to be – regardless what people say.

I hope starting today, you shall let passion drive you and let you fall in love with each and every step you take – because it will all be worth it.