Cultural expectations surrounding the elderly are being challenged today, and with good reason!
While it was the norm to slow down and retreat into a quieter life post-retirement, more men and women are finding purpose and joy in doing the opposite.
WisdomCircle honours such men and women by shining light on their journey through an inspiring series called “Wisdom Stories”. These people have successfully smashed stereotypes, and their stories remind us that life should be lived to the fullest, no matter what age or stage.
Three turning points in my life were when I got married, when I had my two children and when we moved to the US and then later to the UK. During those days, with no internet, if you physically moved from one place to another, it impacted your work. One had to leave what we were doing, go to a new place, look for opportunities and then start over.
When we got married, my husband and I decided to have a clear division of labour based on our interests and capability. Being the breadwinner was his primary role while being the home minister was mine. We relocated often due to my husband’s professional commitments, and I felt that I was not getting a platform to pursue my career. However, today I look back with satisfaction at having successfully taken care of my responsibilities of raising a good family where we love and care for each other. Our approach enabled us to raise two fantastic kids who are well settled (professionally and personally). And, the best part is that with our responsibilities over, I am passionately pursuing my career as a Model and Actress.
Chance has played a key role in my career. I stepped into an audition on the insistence of my husband who was shooting for a commercial a few years ago. There was a last minute cancellation that I filled in for. Not only did both my husband and I get selected for the campaign, we shot together for many more! I have worked in 3 films (the latest being 12th Fail), 2 web series and have done around 250 odd advertisements.
My family members have deeply impacted and shaped my life. My parents, husband, in-laws, kids and last but not least my 3 grandchildren have added positively and purpose. Outside of family, I have always admired Mrs. Indira Gandhi for her inner strength.
Traits that have come handy in navigating the ups and downs of life are not shying away from hard work, commitment and strong willpower. I try to set tough goals and pursue them with passion.
My advice to the Wisdom Generation is to focus on those blessings. Now that we are done with our primary responsibilities, what are those things that we always wanted to do but never got to it? List them. Start crossing off the
list and enjoy the experience.
– Chhavi Tandon
Interview credit: Saonli Bedi from WisdomCircle
