I’m at a point in my life where my interests and plans have evolved in ways I hadn’t expected a few years ago. The subjects I chose in school don’t align with the future I envisioned, but that hasn’t stopped me. I’ve realized that it’s never too late to start—whether you’re 17 or 50. We tend to get caught up in the idea of waiting for the perfect moment, but I’ve learned that the moment you’re in is always the best one.

For me, that’s meant diving into finance, even as I focus on high school academics. I’m building my future independently, not because I have the talent or know all the answers, but because I simply want to. It’s this drive that’s kept me going through the challenges, and even on the days when it’s tough, it’s the passion that pushes me forward.

I think the best time to start anything—whether it’s a career shift, a new skill, or a passion project—is when you realize that you have the power to begin. It doesn’t matter if your journey doesn’t look conventional. In fact, sometimes it’s the unconventional paths that hold the most growth.

I look at my mom, who’s starting her master’s in law after years of stepping away from the field, and I see a great example of how it’s never too late to find what truly fulfills you.

There’s no magic moment that’s going to come and present itself to you. The magic is in the decision to take the first step now, even when the path is unclear. It’s not always about talent, and it’s not about waiting for the “right” time. It’s about showing up and making it happen.

The world doesn’t slow down for anyone. But if you take one step today, even a small one, you’re already ahead.