“You are too young for this. You can’t compete with others at this age. Writing is not everyone’s cup of tea. How much will you earn? There’s no scope in the field of writing….” Ignoring these thoughts of others he chose to listen to himself do it.
This is the story of Sumrit Shahi, a 22-year-old bestselling author of 3 novels and one of the youngest scriptwriters in the Indian television industry.
Sumrit, one of the youngest writers from Chandigarh, followed his passion, and made it out without having any remote connection in the field of writing, in his family.
“I always liked to read. And mind you, that was rare considering I came from a business family in Punjab, it was just expected of me to join my dad in his business, but then I identified my passion in life. And worked extra hard to make sure that I at least have a shot at pursuing it, and I just got lucky”, said Sumrit who chose to follow his passion, besides joining his family business.
He was in grade 11th, just 17 years old, when his first book, ‘Just Friends’ got published, which soon came in the list of the national bestsellers.
When being asked about his opinion behind the stereotype thinking of Indian parents about choosing career paths, he told,
“We have to understand, our parents’ come from a different generation culturally. They grew up in a time when opportunities that guaranteed success and money were very limited, so them being concerned about being a full time writer was fully justified. They had their share of apprehensions, which cleared over long conversations. And I think that’s the key, communicating with your parents.”
Difficulties are at every path, when asked about the hurdles he faced in this path, he answered,
“Everyday is a hurdle. A lot of people don’t understand what you’re doing. You’ve to work harder. But hey, we’re young people, if we sleep less, invest more on our talent, we’re really not giving up on much. Also please don’t think about economic gains early on, that’ll just bring disappointment.”
According to him the main reason that society still not accepting such uncommon career path is societal stigma, the old beliefs of what a ‘safe’ career is and unawareness.
“Today, there are so many opportunities out there for people who want to do something different, all you need is self belief , talent and the will to rough it out. Yes, success might not be instant but it’ll come, and surely if you’re good at what you do. Also life is long, you don’t want to go to work on a Monday already wishing for a Friday, you get what I mean?”, said Sumrit.
For every person out there, who is still struck between going with their passion or doing what their parents or society says, he suggests, “Most importantly, talk with your parents. Communication is the key. Also practically get a professional qualification to back on, but make time for your alternate career/passion alongside. Also don’t listen to ‘log kya kahengey’. Follow your heart. Don’t look for quick results. Don’t compare yourself with your peers, their struggles are different. Just be true to yourself. ”
Throwing some light on the possibilities, potentials, challenges and rewards of the career in writing, he told, “Today if you have flair with the pen, you can do so many things. You could write books, work in advertising as a copy writer, work with a social media company to write content for them, try your hand in Television and film writing, start a blog, or join a magazine!
The key is work harder than normal. That’s for given. If you’re ready for the grind, go for it. The money might not be great in the beginning, but eventually you’ll learn ways to make yourself happy with what you get and also learn how to get more.”
The path he chose was definitely tough, but then he believed in himself and he did it. Writers like him are an inspiration for many.
But most importantly, the real inspiration comes within you. Find your potential, follow your passion, explore it, and explore yourself. After all life is just not about following others, it’s about exploring yourself. It’s about listening to your inner voice. It’s all about doing what you love. Because it’s your career and it should be of your choice.
This post is a part of our awareness campaign #MyCareerMyChoice. To read more posts from this campaign, please click here.
