Arrival in Canada (2013)
When I first arrived in Canada in 2013, I quickly found a job, thanks to my bilingual skills. The startup I joined was vibrant and full of promise, but within a year, it went bankrupt, leaving me at a crossroads in my career. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a transformative journey.
The Beautiful Downfall to Hell (2014-2017)
The period between 2014 and 2017 was one of the most challenging phases of my life. Despite my best efforts, finding a stable job proved elusive. When I did secure employment, it didn’t last. An ex-manager at a communication firm bluntly told me that I didn't fit the company's culture. This was a polite way of saying that my values, including my need to pray my Salat on time, were not compatible with the office environment. This realization hit me hard and led to a downward spiral, both professionally and personally.
Turning Point and Burnout (2017)
By 2017, I had reached my breaking point. The traditional office setting had become unbearable, a place where I felt increasingly alienated and unsupported. I decided to quit everything, take a step back, and reevaluate my career path. During this time, I immersed myself in online resources, searching for alternative ways to work. It was then that I stumbled upon the concept of Digital Nomads and discovered the book *The 4-Hour Workweek* by Timothy Ferriss. This book was a revelation. It completely shifted my perspective on work, showing me that it was possible to escape the 9-5 grind and design a life that aligned with my values and aspirations.
Going Against the Grain and Working Remotely (2017-2020)
From 2017 onwards, I began to pursue remote work opportunities, despite the lack of support from friends and some family members. They didn’t understand my choice to break away from traditional employment. However, I persevered, finding gigs on platforms like Upwork and other remote job sites. These experiences not only provided me with income but also with the freedom to work in a way that suited my lifestyle and religious practices.
The Pandemic and Beyond (2020-Present)
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 was a turning point for the world. Suddenly, working from home became the norm, and I found myself ahead of the curve. By then, I had relocated to Zanzibar, Tanzania, where I was running my own businesses remotely. I was also employed by a Canadian NGO, helping women find remote job opportunities. The skills and knowledge I had gained over the years became invaluable, allowing me to thrive in this new environment.
The journey from office worker to remote pioneer was long and fraught with challenges, but it was worth every step. Today, I am grateful for the experiences that shaped me and the knowledge I have acquired. Now, I want to give back to my Muslim community, helping others find ways to work from home while staying true to their deen.
اللهم يهدينا إلى الطريق الصحيح (May Allah guide us to the right path)
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