I turned back in surprise. All the students from the class were moving out except a few of my friends. I arranged my books and kept them in my bag.
"So how is your preparation?", one of them asked with excitement.
"Going on..", I said.
My voice sure had fear and disappointment. I had won one of the biggest ever Business Plan contests in my city and had to go to Chennai for the finals. I was going to compete with top business schools of India. Hence, it was natural that I was afraid. Afraid of moving out of my well and competing with a bigger world. But above everything, I was afraid of competing alone.
Our travel was sponsored by the organizers and we were supposed to go their alone. I had insisted my parents come along with me. My father had his commitments at office and mother had to go to her brother's place to take care of their new born baby.
"You will have to go alone dear", my mother had said.
They assured me that things will be very easy. My dad booked me a flight and cabs to take me from one place to another. Every minute of my journey was planned but I was still afraid! I had never traveled alone ever and this distance was a bit too much for me to cover on my own. There was no way I could get back from where I had reached. I had to challenge my inner fear.
"What if I lose my luggage, mom?", I asked my mother while on our way to airport.
I was very insecure. I wanted someone I trust to come with me. My soul wanted to cling on someone. I didn't want to put myself to any sort of risk. This, coming from a 21 year old was way too childish, but that is how I was!
However, I soon boarded the flight - my first ever airplane experience! The fascinating sight of the city, oceans and river, the beautiful bunch of clouds, smart pilots and neat hostesses, everything was perfect! I soon landed in Chennai where the cab driver was waiting for me. He took me to the hotel and I was amazed at the luxury it offered! The next day I went for the competition all alone. I doubted myself till the end but the moment I stood on the stage with my venture's logo on the projector screen, I knew I had something with me, something that belongs to me!
I couldn't win the competition but the journey alone did make me more confident about myself. It helped me discover a new side of myself!
I just returned from a trip to Spain last month which explains what my first trip did to me!
Tip from this event? Go, #StartANewLife
