This article explores the journey of a Taiwanese individual named Harvey, who initially pursued medicine, a highly esteemed career in Taiwan, but ultimately transitioned to business in the United States. We delve into his experiences, challenges, and the self-discovery process that led him to forge his unique path.
The Allure of Medical School in Taiwan
Societal Expectations and the Pyramid of Success
In Taiwan, many aspire to attend medical school, viewing it as the pinnacle of success and social status. It is often seen as a guaranteed path to a smooth and prosperous life. However, for some, the reality of this path may not align with their true passions and abilities.
Harvey's Initial Aspirations
Harvey initially chose to study medicine, influenced by societal expectations and the perception that the "strongest" students pursued this field. He also had a personal experience with a teacher's illness that highlighted the importance of the medical profession. He attended Yang Ming University.
Early Challenges and Discovering Limitations
The Pressure of Competition
While intelligent, Harvey faced academic challenges in high school and later in medical school. He realized it was impossible to be the best at everything, forcing him to re-evaluate his strengths and find his place among high-achieving peers. He found ways to contribute, like providing comics or excelling in games.
Accepting Imperfection
A pivotal moment came when Harvey realized he couldn't compete with classmates who were exceptionally passionate about their studies. He learned the importance of accepting his limitations and focusing on areas where he could truly excel.
The Spark of Self-Exploration
Beyond Grades: Discovering the Joy of Learning
Harvey's journey involved self-exploration. He began to question his initial motivations and sought a more fulfilling path. He realized that constant competition wasn't the answer and that understanding his intrinsic passions was more important.
The Library and the Second World War
Lost and lacking a role model in the medical field, Harvey turned to the library. There, he became engrossed in the history of World War II. He discovered the fun of learning for its own sake, exploring diverse perspectives and understanding the complexities of the world.
Identifying Core Values and Making a Change
Recognizing Disconnect in Medicine
As graduation approached, Harvey acknowledged that a medical career, while prestigious, might not align with his true self. He realized the importance of honesty and self-awareness in making career choices, even if they go against societal expectations.
Questioning SOPs and Finding Room for Adventure
An experience in a stem cell lab further solidified his desire for a different path. He realized he wasn't suited for repetitive, strictly regulated tasks and sought a career with more room for innovation and creativity. He found a repetitive SOP task and thought a machine would be more suitable.
Transitioning to Business
Finding a Passion and Finding Value
Ultimately, Harvey's journey led him to the United States, where he pursued studies in business and related fields. This transition, though a significant departure from his initial path, allowed him to find a career that better aligned with his passions and values.
Advice for Others
The Importance of Self-Exploration
The speaker Chien-Shan, a dentist with diverse experiences, emphasized the importance of self-exploration in finding one's true calling. He outlined three steps to clarity: understanding passions, abilities, and values.
Personalized Guidance and Resources
Chien-Shan offers consultations and courses to help individuals explore their interests and determine if their current job suits them. He highlighted the DLive platform as a resource for courses and tools related to public psychology and career exploration.