Today we’d like to introduce you to Sadaf Chaudhry.
Sadaf, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am Sadaf, a lifestyle blogger who hopes to connect and reach out to people of all backgrounds. My blog features my lifestyle, beauty, and social issues. Fashion and Philanthropy are my main two passions. I am very passionate about helping others. I hope to bring attention to issues which are considered taboo in our society. I hope my voice can inspire and encourage others. It’s ok to be different, in fact it’s what makes you who special. I truly hope to help bring change to issues that are difficult to discuss and deal with just by encouraging others to believe in themselves. My blog also provides an entertaining break from the monotony of your day for an inside look at my life, which is far from what is considered the norm.
As an American Pakistani Muslim raised in Cincinnati by immigrant parents, I knew early on in my life that I did not want to practice medicine, a field that is one of the “must do” professions in our culture. My three siblings are all Physicians and my father is a retired General Vascular Surgeon. While I am so proud of them, I knew my path in life was going to take me in another direction. More on that in a moment. The other part I wanted share is that as a South Asian, I was encouraged to complete my undergraduate ASAP and get married to the best suitable person. But again, I reluctantly followed along. Things don’t always turn out as you plan. I love the spotlight My dream was to be someone in the public eye, but I didn’t want to let my parents down, so I got a degree, and a Masters in Science of Accountancy, along with obtaining my CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner). But even after all that, I didn’t feel fulfilled. I always felt low, and often blamed others for it. I just recently realized the only way to achieve my goals and dreams is just going for them! I’ve always worked hard at whatever I did, so why not do it now for something I always wanted? I am inspired by so many and want to be one who inspires others through courage. Coming from a privileged background, I always relied on others, I have realized over time That I just needed to have the courage to go for what I want, work hard at it and never back down.
At the age of 41 (I am 42 now) I knew It may be too late to go into traditional media, but I loved writing and sharing my life with others. So, I decided to write my own blog. I reached out to CG Studio and just put pen to paper and the rest is history.
If you follow me on my blog www.beingsadaf.com you will learn more about the obstacles I have faced in my life. My life has never been smooth sailing, and through my experiences, I have been humbled.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Getting to where I am has not been easy. My struggle has always been a mental one. Worrying about what others may say and how it would affect my parents. When I was younger, I didn’t know how to deal with things and move on. I always wanted to be accepted, and fear of failure had held me back. When you are at your lowest, it is then you realize you can only go up. After many devastating events in my life, I have taught myself to be strong and go for whatever it is I want to do. My major struggle has been pleasing others. I realized, not until I am proud of myself nothing else matters. I am at a point where I no longer care to please anyone except myself and God.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My blog specializes in Lifestyle, Beauty, and Social Issues. I hope to reach out to women or men who have experienced similar issues as I have. I believe in women’s empowerment. I love to connect with women who are making a difference in the world. Through my blog, you will get to meet some of these remarkable women. They are all very instrumental in my life, lifting me up rather than dragging me down.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to relate to different cultures. I was born and raised in the US but I spent every summer until age 21 in Pakistan. I understand the pressures of being Pakistani in the US.
I most proud of the fact that I actually have my own blog! I think just that alone is a great achievement. Having a voice and being heard is something I am very proud of. I was recently featured in Hello! Pakistan’s March 2020 edition. It was a great honor and I look forward to reaching out to as many people as I can.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The most important quality for success is perseverance and patience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beingsadaf.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @being.sadaf
- Twitter: @Sadafbeing
Image Credit:
Sonya Abid Photography, Qamar Anwar Photography, MahadPhotography, Charlie Ewing Photography
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