In 2019, I founded JOG Jobs to support people in Science careers. My contract had just ended but I still hadn’t updated my LinkedIn profile. Job seekers kept messaging me, inquiring about potential opportunities at the company. This prompted me to open a WhatsApp group and I invited the people who messaged me, people I met on interviews and people I had previously worked with. This birthed Job Opportunities Galore(JOG).
The idea was to create a supportive community where everyone could share job leads and contacts. I did not anticipate that the group would grow as much as it has now. What started as a small initiative has blossomed over the years, providing invaluable benefits to many, including myself. I found my current job through JOG. Seeing people grow from this little space I created gives me so much fulfillment.
Now, nearly five years later, I’ve embarked on creating a website to expand our reach further. Some of the few people I shared this with were quick to ask how this move would translate to money. I found myself questioning my decision and feeling the pressure to validate my move by talking about all job seeking services that are potential money making avenues. But the truth is, the journey of growth and impact is my definition of success, not just monetary gains.
I feel that JOG has been quite a success. Even though I would love to earn from this, my focus remains on the essence of what we’ve built- a space for people to thrive professionally. The website represents a new chapter for me, a way to expand and explore new horizons. Similar to how I couldn’t predict the tremendous growth of the WhatsApp group initially, I’m launching this website with the same spirit of consistency and hope for growth. Let’s circle back in five years and see where this journey takes us.
Success, to me, encompasses the entire journey-from the initial fearful step, through moments of doubt from others, to staying consistent, and finally witnessing the gradual yet steady growth. It’s common to question oneself and redefine success based on others’ opinions and standards. However, for me, success means excelling in what my heart desires, despite the doubts and fears echoed by others. It’s an acknowledgment that I may not have a clear roadmap for my passion, but I’m committed to navigating it with dedication and discovering the path as I go. True success, in my view, comes from making decisions rooted in the value I aim to create, rather than conforming to external expectations.
I share this story to emphasize that success isn’t solely about money or conforming to others’ expectations. It’s about staying true to your passion, making meaningful contributions, and remaining authentic despite doubts or external pressures. So, to everyone pursuing their dreams, remember that success is personal, and it’s okay to define it on your terms. Stay focused, stay true, and let your journey unfold organically.