When I told my parents I wanted to study art instead of business, they said I was throwing my life away. At 18, I left home with nothing but my laptop, sketchbook, and a dream. The first years were brutal — two jobs, instant noodles, and small freelance gigs — but I never stopped creating.
My big break came when a nonprofit shared a poster I designed. Clients poured in, and eventually, I built my own business. Every project taught me patience, perseverance, and self-belief.
Five years later, my parents walked into my studio, older and quieter, eyes wide at the life I’d built. I didn’t feel anger — only peace. I realized success isn’t about proving others wrong; it’s about proving to yourself that following your own path was worth it.
