“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Two months into my MBA, life suddenly happened: my partner passed away.
I struggled and isolated myself. I even considered dropping out of HBS. I lost my main support and guidance; a selfless and loving person who– above everything– wanted me to be happy. He was always very proud of me, which gave me the strength to keep going, despite my dreams being shattered.
I wish I could return to those times when I prioritized long hours of work and flights over being with him; I would set my priorities right. Sadly, I can't.
Now, more than ever, I know that every moment is valuable and irretrievable.
Going forward, I want to find happiness. I want to spend time with my loved ones, enjoy the freedom I unfortunately have, and accept a job that allows me to add value instead of accumulating wealth. I want to enjoy the little things in life – pause for a moment, live as if I won't have that luxury the following day.
People look at my grey hairs as a disaster that needs to be covered; I see them as a manifestation of the pain that is making me stronger every day.
— Sara Alsadi