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Switching careers in style

Do women think twice before switching careers or just take the plunge?

Variety is the spice of life. Perhaps, that's why women are following their passion and taking up a number of careers. Ask them and the answer is simple. Life is too short, and what better way to enjoy it than doing all the things you love.

So, it's not surprising when Liza Chavra took a break from her HR job of seven years and moved with her one-year-old daughter from Bangalore to Kovalam to run a home stay for six months.

"It was something I had always wanted to do — to be in the hospitality business. And I must admit the experience was more than enjoyable. Besides, I believe, it had been a true test of my HR skills," Ask her if she would do it again, and she says, "Why not? It is a good business and has given me numerous other ideas. I would say it has kindled my desire to venture into other fields of interest."

For others like Saanya, a writer, giving up a full-time job to freelance has been a decision to follow her love for interior decoration. "Although I am still learning to play with design and colour, I have realised the opportunities are many. This has taken away the monotony of a regular job, and added that extra zing to work. Besides, had I not done it, there would always be a part of me telling I had missed out on something."

No guts, no glory

Most women believe it's important to be passionate about what you do. "It is the best way to keep yourself in high spirits," smiles Aarati Pradeep, "and that is something you need to do, especially when you are responsible for maintaining the happy ambience in the family." She says it took months of discussion with her husband before she decided to work part-time at an advertising agency and spend the rest of the day baking cakes and cookies. "Initially, it was difficult because it seemed like I had more household responsibilities. I had been at home longer and even the children demanded more. But it all worked out well once a routine was set, with a little help from my husband."

So, what about money? Doesn't one miss the regular flow of income? "Well, you do feel the pinch in the beginning, but once things settle down, you will find it can actually bring in more money," says Smitha Rahul, previously a teacher who has recently opened a clothes store. To some, it's the willingness to take a risk to do what one's heart desires. However, there are some who believe that taking the risk is easier when there is another earning member in the family. But there is that extra price you pay. "You are talking about juggling two different careers and if you have a family to take care of, it would be a test of patience and good management," points out Saanya.

But there is no gain without pain. "And it's better to take a risk while you are young and have the energy for it," says Kalpana Menon who left a travel agency to start her own travel agency.So, here is to following your heart's desire. "You can never know what your true calling is unless you take that plunge," as Liza points out. For, you live only once.

TANYA ABRAHAM

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