Sarkari Naukri (Government Job)

I started my career in the private sector. My boss was supportive and not overly strict about targets, yet there was an unspoken competition among colleagues. Everyone wanted to grow, prove themselves, and move ahead. I worked hard and enjoyed the challenge. Whenever my seniors appreciated my efforts, it gave me a strong sense of motivation and purpose. The pressure could be exhausting, but it also made life feel dynamic and engaging.

A few years later, I casually appeared for some government job exams. To my surprise, I cleared them. My parents and friends were overjoyed. They spoke about stability, security, housing benefits, and a comfortable future. It seemed like an opportunity too good to refuse.

My first week at the new office felt warm and promising. Mr. Chadda welcomed me kindly, and my colleagues appeared friendly and cheerful. I even hosted a small celebration, and everyone joined with enthusiasm. I felt fortunate.

Naturally, I continued working with the same energy and sincerity as before. My seniors appreciated my dedication, but over time, I began noticing subtle shifts around me. Conversations would pause when I entered. Lunch breaks grew quieter. Invitations slowly disappeared. I felt hurt and confused. Had I done something wrong?

Later, I realised it was due to my over-enthusiasm for work and my constant need for validation from my bosses that had slowly distanced me from my colleagues. But I liked the way I was. Gradually, it became difficult to work in such an environment. 

I even thought of quitting. But what would I tell my family? They would call me a fool for giving up such a “secure future.” No one would understand how suffocating it feels to be in such an environment.

There was a debate going on inside me. One voice said, “Every place comes with its own comforts and challenges, its own gains and compromises. How long will I keep running from difficult situations? The other said, “It is easy to speak about acceptance! But much harder to remain calm when life does not move according to our expectations”. One thing was sure: quitting was not an option—not yet.

Gradually, I stopped expecting the workplace to fulfill every emotional need. I continued doing my work sincerely and slowly began turning toward other parts of life—reading, learning, hobbies, meaningful conversations, meditation, and quiet personal goals.

Early retirement? Maybe. But until then, I would try to live life on my own terms.

A Solitary Gift
Living life on own terms is not easy,
But voice of the soul,
Left alone-
A silent punishment from society,
Gradually, the curse turned into a blessing,
A quiet road to self – discovery.