Photo : Munia Ali

It’s actually a very complicated topic to talk about, but I’m writing today because this is the first post in my own blog — and I feel I should start by sharing my transition: where I am now, and what made me decide to take this step after 12 years of work.

I want to give a true disclaimer: I am not a professional writer. I often feel so many things deeply, but whenever I try to write, I can’t always find the right words. Sometimes I manage, sometimes I don’t. So please know — I am in process…

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A Small Detour into My Journey

I’m a finance person. For more than a decade, I worked across both the corporate and humanitarian sectors. Over time, my challenges, ambitions, and goals have shifted. I always had a thought to “be myself,” but somewhere along the way, through years of work, I lost touch with that voice.

In 2025, when USAID funding cuts shook the sector, one thing hit me very hard: What is our real identity without an organization? Who are we, really, if our jobs disappear? That question kept pushing me: What is my own identity? What is the equation of my self?

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The Push to Pause

This thought became so strong that I realized: I have been working 12 years without a real break. Maybe I’m burning out. Maybe I truly need a pause — to think deeply about what I actually want from life.

Finance has always been more than numbers to me. I believe finance alone cannot drive change — the main factor is always people. Finance needs clarity and purpose to matter. And maybe I need to reflect more on how I can contribute in a way that truly empowers communities.

Bcz,,Every number is connected to a human story.

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Looking Back & Looking Forward

Another question kept coming up: I have worked for different organizations for a decade, but at the end of the day — where am I? What is mine? Each organization has a bigger vision, but I also want to explore my own.

This page is my raw place — so that when I look back in the future, I can see the footsteps I took.

I also carry a bigger vision: to work with women, community who need clarity about finance in daily life, and who need courage to step out of their comfort zones and find their own voices beyond any organization. I want every woman to have her own voice. Through this page, I hope to amplify those who don’t yet have one — but my main objective is to support you in discovering and strengthening your own.

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What’s the connection with this page?

I want this platform to be a safe space. While I work on finding my own equation, maybe others can also explore theirs. I want us to walk together, learn side by side, and grow together.

I know it’s not easy to speak up when you’re “in process.” Our culture often values only those who are already successful. But I believe the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Success and failure are both perspectives — what counts is what you learn along the way.

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And The Step

So, after 12 years in finance, I decided to take a career break — to find my own equation. I’m not suggesting everyone should make this kind of bold decision. It’s courageous, risky, and very personal. But what I do believe is this: stepping out of your comfort zone and listening to your inner voice is always worth it.

There’s a proverb I hold close: Better Late Than Never.

Wherever you are, whatever your age or situation, the real thing is to have the courage to step out and try something you are passionate about — so you don’t live with regret. Life is already uncertain, so why not create something new within it?

Have you ever felt the need to step back and redefine yourself beyond your job?