#159 Living Intentionally After "Enough" - Bilal Zaidi on leaving Google, emigrating to the US, video games, the intensity of New York, writing poetry and spoken word, travel vs vacations, and money and creativity
Childhood scripts shape our mindset and approach to work and money.
The power of curiosity and embracing unconventional paths in career choices.
Transitioning from a traditional job to pursue passions and find fulfillment in work and life.
Deep dives
Exploring Self-Employment and Unconventional Paths
In this podcast episode, the speaker engages in a conversation with Valal Zaidi about self-employment and unconventional paths. The episode delves deep into the stories of individuals who have taken alternative paths in life and have dared to share their creations with the world. The discussion highlights the importance of reimagining traditional narratives and exploring new stories for work and life.
The Influence of Childhood Scripts on Money and Work
The podcast explores the influence of childhood scripts on ideas about money and work. Valal Zaidi, the guest, shares his experiences growing up in a Pakistani family in London and how money was an important topic in their household. He discusses the pressure to be financially responsible, the underdog script of proving oneself as an immigrant, and the desire for safety and a better life. These childhood scripts have shaped his mindset and approach to work and money.
The Power of Curiosity and Following Unconventional Paths
The podcast episode highlights the power of curiosity and the importance of following unconventional paths. Valal Zaidi shares his journey of embracing his natural curiosity, which led him to explore different creative outlets, including writing poetry and performing on stage. He talks about the transformative impact of stepping out of his comfort zone and the sense of wonder and awe he experiences when exploring new territories. This mindset has influenced his career choices and his decision to create his own podcast, which provides a platform for interesting and diverse conversations.
Transitioning from a Traditional Job to a Path of Purpose
The podcast episode discusses the process of transitioning from a traditional job to a path that aligns with one's purpose. Valal Zaidi shares his personal journey of working at Google and later realizing that he was seeking more impact and fulfillment. He talks about the decision to leave his job and embrace uncertainty, which led him to explore new ventures like podcasting and consulting. This transition allowed him to pursue his passions, make a positive impact, and find greater satisfaction in his work and life.
The Importance of Long-Term Thinking and Building Genuine Relationships
One of the main ideas discussed in the podcast episode is the significance of taking a long-term approach in various aspects of life, including career, relationships, and personal growth. The speaker highlights the beauty of playing the long game, emphasizing the value of creating lasting memories, experiences, and friendships. They share personal examples such as the friendships formed through collaborations and the joy derived from engaging in activities that are truly enjoyable. The speaker also stresses the importance of defining one's own sense of 'enough' and being intentional about prioritizing what truly matters in terms of finances, health, and personal fulfillment.
The Distinction Between Traveling and Vacationing
Another key point explored in the podcast is the difference between traveling and vacationing. The speaker discusses the concept of vagabonding and adopting a mindset of exploration and wonder rather than simply following a checklist of tourist attractions. They share personal experiences of traveling for extended periods, fully immersing themselves in different cultures, and building connections with locals. The speaker also emphasizes the value of approaching daily life with a sense of adventure, even in the familiar surroundings of one's own city. They encourage listeners to prioritize experiences and activities that bring genuine joy and wonder, rather than conforming to societal expectations or cultural norms.
Bilal was born in London to a family of Pakistani descent. A curious kid, with an interest in computers, he developed a successful website with over 500 000 readers in his teens. He ended up working at Google in the US. After a while Bilal has left the company to carve his own path. He has founded Creator Lab and discovered a passion for spoken word poetry, which enables him to better connect with his family
