Self exploration through travel & experiences

Exploring new paths and cultures through my travels have helped me see the countless opportunities life has to offer, and to ultimately discover myself. Be it trekking, biking, scuba diving or rafting — my adventures have encouraged me to dream bigger, stay curious, embrace uncertainty, push my limits and never settle.

Early on in my career during my articleship, I worked hard and did well. When my Principal Charter asked me if I was satisfied, my answer was a resounding “Yes”. He frowned and said, “Be proud, but never satisfied.” Initially, his reaction distressed me but on contemplation I realised the big life lesson he had taught me.

One of my much-cherished memories has been making a back-flip from the edge of a boat into the Indian Ocean for scuba diving while travelling solo. Even for an experienced swimmer, this would be a challenging prospect. With a cylinder on my back, this was the only answer — a now or never decision. In split seconds, I reminded myself that backing out and settling was not an option for me, and I took the leap. Thus this experience which lasted for a few minutes has left me elated for a lifetime.

I try to live by these learnings by never backing down and giving my best. We often think we have reached the top of a mountain, only to realise it was really just the base of another, larger one. As I look ahead, I am grateful for where I am now and the possibilities the future holds.

(This blog was penned by Kavya Tiwari from the product team at ClearTax.)