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The only thing that is guaranteed in life is that it is filled with twists and turns. A decade ago, I was ambitious. I was all about the hustle, being #girlboss, chasing the next milestone, one after another. My identity was my job, and that was all there is to it. There were a lot of highs, starting my own PR agency, winning jobs, awards and more. But that all came crashing down in 2018 when I flew over the motorbike in a traffic accident.
The accident changed my life. I had spent months learning to walk again, learning to be strong again to pick up a single glass of water, then my MacBook. It took over a year before I could be comfortable sitting on the floor, crossing my legs, and even more time to be able to sit on a chair for extended periods of time. I fell into mild depression, and yet I pushed, but my body held me back from what would have been a dream job in a FAANG company.
I could spend the rest of my life being upset in how an irresponsible driver crashed my world while it was doing better than ever. However, I look back at the years being grateful, and only grateful, at being pushed to evaluate what life meant, and what it could mean for the years ahead.
The months that followed the accident was gruelling. I had an identity crisis, and I felt absolutely worthless. I was forced to reconsider what truly matters in life, and what my definitely of success would be.
Today, success means that I am becoming a better person, a better daughter, a better friend, a better mentor. It is no longer about the accolades or job titles, but about what I can contribute to society. I pivoted my work to focus on working with non-profits, and I think the day may come soon where I might abandon #girlboss and seek meaningful work with a wider impact.
I really like resonated with what Danielle said in The Trampoline Club’s recent episode. Different people will have different cores. For some it could be friends, it could be communities, and for me, it is first and foremost my family.
Since August 2024, I have been struggling with my endometriosis diagnosis and the unpredictable nature of hormonal treatment. I have felt isolated, lonely, and once again, worthless when chronic fatigue and brain fog get the better of me and I’m unable to be as productive or active as I wish to be. What Danielle shared reminded me that my core is my family. So long as I get to spend quality time with my family, and everyone is happy and healthy, that is all that matters. It is okay that I can no longer be as social as I’d like to be. It is okay that I’m in a different season of friendships with the people whom I’m close with. It is okay to struggle so long as I do not give up, and continue to make my way through it.
In setting up this site, I hope that anyone who is going through what I am currently experiencing feels just a little bit less alone. Whether you are struggling through a chronic illness, experiencing difficulties with caregiving duties as an older millennial, or simply uncertain about what is to come in the future.
And there goes my introduction. Hello again, my name is Peng and it’s so nice to meet you!
