When I was a young girl in Korea, I had a dream. A dream that seemed impossible at the time, a dream that others found impractical, even ludicrous - but it was my dream. I wanted to become a physicist and attain a Ph.D. from a US university. I knew it would be a tough road, full of uncertainties and challenges, but I was prepared to chase this dream.
The initial struggle was convincing those around me. My parents frowned upon a girl studying physics. My peers at university doubted my abilities, primarily due to my limited proficiency in English. Even some physicists who were aware of my ambition suggested that I choose an easier path, acquiring a Ph.D. in Korea instead. A few professors were concerned about me leaving for the US unmarried, suggesting that I should first find a husband who could accompany me.
Every time I tried to share my aspirations, I was met with skepticism, advice against it, and even discouragement. I felt alone, like an outlier with a dream that no one understood. Over time, I developed a tendency to hide my ambitions, to protect them from the skepticism of the world.
However, I stayed the course, determined to pursue my dreams no matter the doubts surrounding me. My efforts bore fruit when I was accepted into a US university for my Ph.D. program.
Fast-forwarding to the present, I now see that my story is not as unique as I once thought. I find solace in the fact that there are many others like me, who chased their dreams even when no one around them could understand or support them. In an era where personal stories are shared freely on various social media platforms, I feel at home even among strangers who share similar experiences.
I discovered communities of individuals who faced the same challenges and pressures that I had, people who understood my journey. I also learned about the power of coaching – the impact of having someone encourage you, challenge you, and stand by you throughout your journey.
Reflecting on my journey, I often wish I had this support network earlier in my life. Perhaps I could have achieved more, achieved faster. However, I've come to realize that there's a silver lining in the way my life has unfolded. I've grown to understand the immense value of community, coaching, and a support network.
And this understanding is what fuels my passion today. I coach successful people to accelerate their success. I challenge them to dream bigger, I help identify and remove self-limiting thoughts, and support them on their journey to achieving their dreams - the success they have defined for themselves.
As we move forward, I will share more on how to build confidence, dream bigger, overcome obstacles, and accelerate success in this blog series. Stay tuned because this journey, just like yours, is only beginning.
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