HEART GROUND WOMAN — Kgomotso
Kgomotso's journey from somatology to pharmaceuticals, a tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of listening to one's inner voice.
“Be intentional with your every move and always have faith.”
Kgomotso Millicent Nailana
Somatologist, Adventurer, and Aspiring Pharma Visionary
At the age of 32, I am a woman who has successfully pursued an Honours degree in Somatology from the esteemed Cape Peninsula University of Technology, located in the beautiful city of Cape Town, South Africa. It's important to note that my journey towards Somatology wasn't a straightforward one, as it was not my initial career choice. Life, as it tends to, guided me along a slightly different path, filled with small detours that eventually led me to where I am today.
A Dream Influenced by Tragedy
Ever since I can remember, I've harboured a deep-seated desire to be a part of the Medical field. This aspiration, I believe, was significantly influenced by the heart-wrenching experience of losing my younger sister to brain cancer when she was merely 4 years old. That tragic event left a profound impact on my life, shaping my ambitions and reinforcing my belief in the importance of service to others. I have come to understand that my purpose in this world is to be of service, to offer help and support to those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Unexpected Paths and Aspirations
Although the field of Somatology was not initially my first choice of career, it was a path that I found myself on due to circumstances and a deep-seated desire to see the world. Being part of a family where my mother was a trailblazer, the first to graduate from university, and where no one had ever travelled overseas, I felt a compelling urge to break those restrictive boundaries and generational curses.
My aspirations were not limited to my immediate surroundings, but they stretched far and wide, reaching the distant shores of foreign lands. Indeed, I have had the privilege to explore a fraction of the world through my travels in the Caribbean Islands, which was a delightful and enriching experience. However, despite these engaging adventures, there was always a persistent feeling deep within me, a voice that gently whispered that being a Somatologist was not my true calling in life.
It was a voice that I could not ignore, a voice that reminded me of the dreams and aspirations I had as a young girl. I remember distinctly telling myself that by the age of 30 years, I would have moved on from this industry to pursue my true passion.
Listening to the Inner Voice
This voice, this intuitive sense of self, is something I believe we all possess. It whispers to us during quiet moments, nudging us when it's time for a change. It's this voice that guides us, encouraging us when we need to embark on a new journey or transcend to the next level of our lives. It's this voice that has led me to where I am now, standing on the precipice of a new adventure and ready to transcend the next level of our lives.
A Pivotal Decision
In 2021, five months before I was about to turn 30, I made a significant decision. I chose to heed that small, persistent voice within me that had been gently urging me to expand my horizons and challenge myself. With a sense of purpose and a hint of trepidation, I enrolled myself in a short course to become a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. This was a field I had long been interested in, but had never had the courage to venture into. I remember having a heart-to-heart conversation with God during this time. I had already completed my medical examinations for the MSC Cruise line, a role I was equally passionate about. I found myself at a crossroads, with two promising paths laid out in front of me. I trusted that once I finished this course, I would choose the job that came first. Whichever opportunity presented itself first, I would seize it, confident in the knowledge that it was the path meant for me.
Facing Challenges and Embracing New Beginnings
In an effort to condense a somewhat lengthy tale into a shorter one, it was merely a few weeks prior to the completion of my brief course, when, to my surprise, I received a call inviting me for an interview in the pharmaceutical industry. That moment provided me with the answer I had been searching for, so I received it with an inner bliss. However, it would be disingenuous to claim that the journey was a straightforward one. As it turned out, approximately six months into my new career, I found myself having to tender my resignation. Despite the setback, I clung onto hope and faced the world with a positive outlook. After a challenging year of being unemployed, during which I relentlessly pursued opportunities, I am now thrilled to share that I have secured permanent employment in the field of my choice.
A New Day: Daily Practices and Life Philosophy
What can be defined as practices or approaches towards life that you find shapes your experience of life?
Each day when I awake, I find myself filled with gratitude as I say, "Thank you, God, for blessing me with another day." I have cultivated a unique routine whereby I combine my morning prayer with my shower, a practical solution for saving a bit of time in the early hours yet still accomplishing the tone I set for the day. Once I've finished my prayerful shower, I turn to my beloved Maverick City music essential. The melodious tunes fill my room as I dress, or they accompany me on my commute to work, providing an uplifting soundtrack to my morning. This routine serves as a spiritual and musical start to my day, setting a positive tone for the hours that follow.
“There is not a single moment when change is not present. the constant of the universe, the motion of impermanence, is observably evident in the world around us and the world within us.
If we examine nature, it is clear that everything is in a constant state of dynamic change. trees are a great example: in cycles they alternate from experiences of releasing to experiences of releasing, all the while alive, all the while growing. if we are refusing to grow then we are moving against the flow of nature; the flow of change is so powerful that resisting it can only cause difficulty.
Sometimes growth hurts, but it is the type of pain that is easier to endure because it is helping us come forward as a better version of ourselves.”
A Path to Inner Peace and Resilience
Among the everyday rituals that I hold dear, meditation stands out as an aspect of my routine that I deeply cherish. Meditation, a practice that encourages mindfulness and deep internal focus, has become an integral part of my day-to-day life. It's more than just a habit; it's a journey towards self-discovery and inner peace. This act of consciously quieting the mind allows me to connect with my inner self and cultivates a sense of calm and balance. It's this tranquility and equilibrium that helps me navigate the challenges and stresses of everyday life with grace and resilience.
Some mediations apps that I have experimented with include: Othership Chopra Headspace & Calm
One of the practices I thoroughly enjoy and find calming, in addition to meditation, is the act of immersing myself in a soothing, warm bath. This isn't just any ordinary bath, however. I seek to elevate this experience to another level by adding a variety of elements such as sea salts and essential oils to the water. The sea salts, rich in minerals, contribute towards detoxification of the body and help in muscle relaxation, while the essential oils, each with their unique therapeutic properties, add a layer of luxury to the bath. The aromatic oils not only invigorate the senses but also serve as a form of aromatherapy, providing psychological and physical benefits. This combination of sea salts and essential oils not only aids in physical relaxation by easing tension and soothing aches, but it also enhances the overall sensory experience, creating a spa-like atmosphere right in the comfort of my own home. This practice is much more than a mere bathing ritual; it is a holistic experience that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.
Every month, I make a intentional effort to experience something I haven't before. This could be anything from attending a pottery class where I can shape clay with my own hands, to immersing myself in a brand new book whose pages haven't been turned yet. Sometimes, it might be about tantalizing my taste buds by trying out a new cuisine at a restaurant I've never been to. At other times, it could be as simple yet enriching as going to a summer sunset concert with a group of my close friends. I firmly believe that self-care is of paramount importance, and this year, I have made a pledge to indulge in it more than ever. It is absolutely essential to recharge one's own batteries, or to fill one's cup, as they say. By doing this, we ensure that we are at our best, both for ourselves and for those around us.
Discovering Purpose Through Service
What did you discover in bringing your unique service to others?
I have discovered that everyone has a purpose in life, and we're continually discovering what that is. Being of service brings me joy and I am yet to see how God wants to use me in the pharmaceutical field.