Praveen B.S

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

Like many people, my career path wasn't a straight line, and I didn't have everything figured out from the start. In fact, I explored several different interests before finding my true passion. During my formative years, I had a wide range of interests spanning from science and technology to literature and the arts. I was curious about the world around me and eager to learn as much as I could about various subjects. This curiosity led me to pursue a well-rounded education that allowed me to explore different fields and disciplines. As I progressed through my academic journey, I continued to explore my interests through coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities. I sought out opportunities that aligned with my passions and allowed me to gain hands-on experience in various areas. It wasn't until I delved deeper into IT, that I realized my true calling. I found myself drawn to the challenges and opportunities within this field, and I discovered a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the work I was doing. It was a gradual process of self-discovery and exploration, but once I found my passion, I knew I had found the right path for me. While I didn't have everything figured out from the beginning, each step I took along the way helped me gain clarity and perspective on my career goals. I learned valuable lessons from every experience, whether it was success or failure, and I used those lessons to shape my career trajectory. So, to answer your question, no, I didn't know all along what my career would be. It took time, exploration, and self-reflection to find my true calling. But looking back, I wouldn't change a thing, as every step of the journey has led me to where I am today.

What is it like when your job gets tough?

When my job gets tough, it can be challenging both professionally and emotionally. Here are some aspects of what it's like when facing difficult times at work: 1. Pressure and Stress: Tough situations often come with increased pressure and stress. Deadlines may be looming, expectations might be high, or the complexity of the tasks at hand may feel overwhelming. Managing this pressure while maintaining focus and productivity can be quite demanding. 2. Problem-Solving: Difficulties at work often require problem-solving skills. It may involve troubleshooting technical issues, resolving conflicts within teams, or finding innovative solutions to complex problems. This can be mentally taxing as it requires critical thinking, creativity, and sometimes thinking outside the box. 3. Emotional Impact: Tough situations at work can also have an emotional toll. Frustration, disappointment, and even feelings of failure may arise when things don't go as planned. It's important to acknowledge and address these emotions constructively, whether through self-reflection, seeking support from colleagues or supervisors, or practicing stress-management techniques. 4. Resilience: Dealing with tough situations requires resilience – the ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere in the face of challenges. Cultivating resilience involves staying positive, maintaining a growth mindset, and learning from failures to come back stronger. 5. Team Dynamics: Difficulties at work can impact team dynamics. Communication may break down, conflicts may arise, and morale may dip. Navigating these challenges while maintaining a sense of unity and collaboration within the team is crucial for overcoming obstacles collectively. 6. Learning Opportunities: Despite the difficulties, tough situations can also present valuable learning opportunities. They push us out of our comfort zones, encourage personal and professional growth, and provide insights that can be applied in future endeavors. Overall, when my job gets tough, it's a test of my resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage stress. While it can be challenging, facing difficult situations head-on can ultimately lead to growth and development both personally and professionally.

Did anyone ever oppose your career plans when you were young or push you in a direction you did not want to go?

Yes, there were instances where people opposed or questioned my career plans when I was young, and there were times when I felt pushed in directions I didn't want to go. These experiences are not uncommon, as family members, teachers, mentors, and peers may have their own perspectives and expectations about what they believe is best for us. 1. Family Expectations: In some cases, family members may have specific expectations or desires for our career paths based on their own experiences, cultural background, or societal norms. They may encourage us to pursue certain professions or industries that they perceive as stable or prestigious, even if it doesn't align with our own interests or aspirations. 2. Peer Influence: Peers can also play a role in shaping our career decisions. Pressure to conform to peer expectations or follow a particular path that is popular among friends may lead us to consider options that don't necessarily resonate with our true passions. 3. Educational Institutions: Educational institutions may offer guidance and advice on career choices, but sometimes their recommendations may not align with our personal goals or interests. They may emphasize certain fields or majors over others, potentially steering us in directions that may not be the best fit for us individually. 4. Societal Pressures: Societal norms and stereotypes about certain careers or industries can influence our perceptions of what is considered acceptable or desirable. This can create external pressure to pursue paths that are seen as prestigious or financially lucrative, even if they don't align with our passions or values. In the face of opposition or pressure to veer off course, it's important to stay true to ourselves and our own aspirations. While it can be challenging to navigate conflicting expectations and opinions, ultimately, our career choices should be guided by our own interests, values, and goals. Seeking guidance from mentors, engaging in self-reflection, and being open to exploring different paths can help us make informed decisions that are right for us.