UNCONVENTIONAL paths to success

Keith Angana, a Nairobi-based writer and editor, embodies this shift. Known for his engaging essays and contributions to Kenya’s literary scene, Angana’s career path took an unexpected turn early on. His first job was in the Kenyan civil service, a position many would consider secure and prestigious. Yet, after 

just one month, he resigned. The job, though stable, did not bring him the self-satisfaction he craved. Instead, he chose to follow his passion for writing, a decision that reshaped his life in ways he never imagined.

Angana’s story is not unique. Around the world, people are questioning the traditional definition of success. A 2024 study by the American Psychological Association revealed that 67% of professionals in high-income jobs reported feeling unfulfilled despite their career achievements. Burnout, anxiety, and a longing for deeper meaning are driving a cultural shift toward redefining what it truly means to be successful.

One of the most significant forces behind this transformation is the burnout epidemic. The hustle culture of the 2010s glorified overworking, with long hours and constant pressure seen as badges of honor. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a global reevaluation. People began prioritizing mental health over job titles, leading to an exodus from high-stress careers as individuals sought work that brought them genuine joy and balance.

At the same time, the rise of minimalism and intentional living has encouraged many to shift their focus from material wealth to meaningful experiences. More people are recognizing that true success is not measured by how much one owns but by how fulfilled one feels. Rather than accumulating possessions, they are seeking purpose in their work and personal lives.

Technology has also played a crucial role in reshaping career aspirations. The digital age has opened doors to new possibilities, allowing people to design careers that fit their lifestyles rather than shaping their lives around their jobs. Remote work, freelancing, and content creation have provided alternatives to traditional employment, enabling individuals to build careers on their own terms. From YouTubers to bloggers and online entrepreneurs, unconventional paths to success are becoming increasingly viable.

Social media has further fueled this transformation by giving visibility to those who choose to break free from conventional career paths. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram showcase people thriving in creative or passion-driven industries, inspiring others to rethink their own definitions of success. Seeing individuals embrace unique and fulfilling careers has empowered many to follow suit, challenging long-held societal norms.

In Kenya, several individuals have defied expectations, walking away from stable careers to pursue their passions—and thriving in the process. Ben Kiruthi, now one of Kenya’s most sought-after photographers, was once an engineer. After completing his degree, he landed a job that paid KSh. 30,000 per month. But something was missing. His heart was not in engineering. Driven by a love for photography, he picked up a camera and dedicated himself to mastering the craft.

Today, Kiruthi earns over half a million shillings monthly, proving that following one’s passion can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Similarly, Wambui Mukenyi, a self-taught fashion designer, once worked as an accountant in a real estate firm. For two years, she remained in a job that provided stability but little personal satisfaction. Eventually, she took a bold step, quitting her job to pursue fashion full-time. The risk paid off. She has since built a successful career, dressing renowned television personalities such as Victoria Rubadiri, Lilian Muli, Janet Mbugua, and Kambua Manundu. Today, she specializes in wedding dress design and coordination, a career that not only brings her joy but also allows her to leave a lasting impact on the industry.

However, the journey to personal fulfillment is not without its challenges. Financial stability remains one of the biggest obstacles. Not everyone has the privilege of walking away from a stable paycheck to follow their dreams. Many who pursue unconventional careers face financial struggles before they find success, making careful planning, savings, and patience essential.

Beyond financial concerns, societal judgment can be a difficult hurdle to overcome. Family and friends often struggle to understand non-traditional career choices. A lawyer choosing to become a chef? An engineer turning into a musician? Such decisions often raise eyebrows and invite criticism. Yet, those who persist find validation in their happiness and accomplishments.

Perhaps the most internal challenge is self-doubt. Without a clear roadmap to success, passion-driven paths can feel uncertain and unpredictable. Unlike traditional careers with set milestones, unconventional journeys require resilience and a deep sense of purpose. The fear of failure can be overwhelming, but for those who push through, the rewards are immeasurable.

As more people embrace alternative definitions of success, societal perceptions of achievement are evolving. Success is no longer confined to job titles and wealth; it now includes mental well-being, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment.

So, what does success mean to you? Is it about the paycheck, or is it about waking up every morning excited about what you do? As the world continues to change, one thing remains certain: true success is deeply personal, and for many, it goes far beyond money.