“Hope is indeed a double-edged sword but it’s the only thing that keeps us going, especially at the face of uncertainties. And what could be a better reminder of that than the year 2020 itself?

Now people look at me with astonishment when they get to know that I’m an MBA graduate selling sugarcane juice for a living. Their immediate response is usually one of two kinds- either a long elaboration at the horrible mistake I’ve made by quitting my stable corporate job or a wide grin appreciating the grit to follow my heart.”

Of course, the former perspective does seem valid in terms of stability but to thrive in a career spanning 30 odd years, I believe one definitely needs to love what they are doing. In my case, I previously had everything but never the drive to get up in the morning and look forward to newer challenges. In fact, the ways of the corporate world felt like shackles curbing me down from flying high, when I had so much potential dormant within!

Additionally with an entrepreneur for a father, I’ve grown up loving the idea of being one’s own boss. The sense of liberation and dedication that comes with it is truly unparalleled! And that’s what got me lured into taking over his business eventually.

Now while it might be just another sugarcane cane juice stall in the city’s corner, everyday is exciting and I hustle beyond my comfort zone constantly to improve sales. My normal working span extends to over 12 hours daily, right from setting up the kiosk, procuring quality produce to standing in the hot sun hour after hour churning out fresh juice. It is tiring but this the happiest I’ve ever been!

What was more satisfying was witnessing the fruits of my labour even during the pandemic. While the Coronavirus snatched many people’s livelihoods, the savings from this humble shop, mocked right from the start, is what ultimately aided my family’s survival without much struggle. It even changed the outlook of so many naysayers, who started respecting the grind over the just superficial appearance of where I operate.

Now again, with the lockdown lifted, I’m working doubly hard to catch up on the months lost. The roads less travelled can be daunting at times but it’s all about trusting the magic of new beginnings. In the end, the best views come after tough climbs, don’t they?