I, a determined BDM at OYO, stood at a crossroads—literally and metaphorically. The central region of Goa, with its 70% concentration of hotels, was a battlefield where 80 BDMs and four sales heads clashed fiercely for dominance. Yet I felt the pull of the unbeaten path, a segment of North Goa less traveled, holding just 300 overlooked hotels. The choice seemed clear, the challenge accepted.

I approached the first hotel, a modest establishment with a faded sign and a welcoming porch. Inside, the manager greeted me with cautious curiosity. "Not many from your company come this far," he remarked, his eyes scanning the unfamiliar OYO badge. "But I'm interested. Let's talk." The conversation flowed, a dance of mutual interest and opportunity.

The breakthrough came unexpected yet deserved. With each meeting, I converted hesitant nods into firm handshakes, securing deals that others had overlooked. I felt the weight of potential, the exhilaration of a path less traveled, as hotel after hotel agreed to join the OYO family. The thrill of climbing to become the second-ranked BDM in India was palpable, a testament to perseverance against all odds.

Despite the success, I couldn't ignore the toxic culture that permeated the workplace. It gnawed at ambition, stifled creativity, and I knew that just like the waves, change was inevitable. It was time to chart a new course, guided by the lessons learned and the dreams that still beckoned.

I felt a renewed sense of purpose as I stepped into the vibrant world of fast-moving consumer goods. Here was a realm where innovation thrived, where I could channel my passion for creating meaningful connections. The unbeaten path had led me here, and I was ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities it promised.

I felt the familiar thrill of a new journey, the anticipation of uncharted territories. The lessons from Goa served as a compass, guiding me through the complexities of the FMCG world. With each step, I was reminded that the unbeaten path, while daunting, was often the most rewarding. And so, I ventured forward, ready to carve new trails and embrace the possibilities that lay ahead.