“It wasn't supposed to be this way. We did everything right, didn’t we?”

Elise followed the straight and narrow path to architectural success, checking off each box like a good daughter should. I, Heidi, chased my version of success in healthcare, grabbing every title, every degree, like they were golden tickets to fulfillment. But somehow, we both ended up feeling... stuck. Like we were missing something essential, something that no degree, title, or accolade could fill.

Finding the Unexpected on the "Right" Path

Elise, the eldest and ever the achiever, went into architecture because she loved the idea of creating. But in the male-dominated world of design, it didn't take long for the shine to wear off. Every day felt like a battle against imposter syndrome. Should she wear heels to this meeting? No, the boss doesn’t like it when she’s taller than him. Should she speak up or stay quiet?

When Elise finally decided to trust her instincts, she stopped playing by the rules everyone el...