Reflections on the Unexpected: A Year of Unexpected Events and Transformations
2020 was a year that surpassed any imagination and expectations, presenting us with challenges and circumstances beyond our control. For many, 2020 was a mix of bad and good experiences, marked by unexpected twists and turns. In this article, we explore some of the unexpected events that shaped a significant part of our lives last year.
Unexpected Bereavement and Family Support
After eight years of a happy married life, I found myself pregnant in March. The joy of anticipation was palpable, as we prepared for the celebration of a baby shower with the family and friends. However, the unexpected and devastating news came on March 7th. There was no movement or heartbeat from the baby, leading to the heartbreaking loss of the baby and the happiness that came with it. The first time I saw my husband in tears, he was broken, and the pain was excruciating. However, with the support of my family and friends, we persevered through this difficult situation, gaining a new realization of the importance of family and friends in our lives.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Personal Growth
To keep my mind occupied after such a traumatic experience, I embarked on new ventures. In June, I started a homemade masala powder business under the brand name Dhiya Greens. Two months later, I ventured into the homemade soap business, again without any formal preparation, but with a lot of self-learning. Today, I am manufacturing a range of natural soaps including face packs, scrub, gel, cream, moisturizer, and lip balm. These ventures not only kept me busy but also provided a way to channel my emotions and focus my energy.
The Unexpected Job Opportunity
Another unexpected event that occurred in 2020 was a job opportunity that I could have never anticipated. I had no desire for a government job and had not prepared for it. However, on February 8, 2020, ONGC visited IIM Trichy for campus placement, and I was fortunate enough to be selected. This sudden entry into a PSU job was a major change and a learning experience.
The Onslaught of Coronavirus and Its Impact
But it was the onslaught of Coronavirus that was the most unexpected and impactful event of 2020. Before the pandemic, I had no idea what a lockdown and the collapse of medical infrastructure would look like. The severity of the situation and the existential crisis it brought pushed us all to reevaluate our priorities and appreciate the simple things in life. I have always been a social person, and the prolonged isolation was challenging, leading to a sense of emptiness and social detachment.
Mental Resilience and Future Expectations
Despite the challenges, there were moments of productivity and satisfaction. For instance, developing a full-fledged website was a significant achievement. However, the mental and emotional impact of the pandemic was profound. The loneliness and isolation tested our resilience, and it was a hard-earned lesson.
Looking forward, the overarching message is that it is essential to live in the moment and not let our expectations create unnecessary worries. 2020 taught us that unexpected events can significantly shape our lives, and it is crucial to adapt and embrace change. Moving forward, my new mindset is "no expectations, no worries," a philosophy that helps me to live a more positive and fulfilling life.