The average South Asian woman living in America is expected to live around 80 years. I’m 18 years old. So I’ve lived 22% of my life to this point.
The mathematician in me believes the statistics presented and tells me that I still have nearly 80% of my life left to live, but I’ve learned this isn’t how life works. Life is short. I could die tomorrow.
That’s why my life motto is Carpe Diem, which is Latin for Seize the Day. Every day that I wake up is a gift, because tomorrow isn’t promised. That’s why I make the most of each day as it comes.
The last conversation I ever had with my grandfather ended without me telling him I loved him. I thought there would be a next time—a chance to express what I thought was understood but left unspoken. There wasn’t. I realized how fleeting time is and how precious every interaction and opportunity can be. It taught me that waiting for "the right time" often means missing the time you have right now.
Since then, I’ve applied this philosophy to everything in my life and career. Carpe Diem reminds me to take risks, embrace challenges, and wholeheartedly pursue opportunities, even when they feel daunting. Whether it’s stepping up for a leadership role, diving into new projects, or simply showing appreciation for the people in my life, I’ve learned that the present moment is the only guarantee we have. Seizing each day it isn’t just a choice; it’s a responsibility to ourselves and the people who matter to us.
Carpe Diem resonates deeply with me and I’ll continue to use it to inspire not just myself, but others, to act boldly, live fully, and never leave important things unsaid. Tomorrow isn’t promised.
