Exclusive! "When You Know, You Just Know" - Aashi Sahni on Quitting Her 9-to-5 for Content Creation

You've probably come across Aashi Sahni's corporate reels, and if you're like me, you immediately thought she was meant for more - and I'm glad she took that first step to follow her dream. We caught up with Aashi to learn more about her journey, her recent music video, and much more. If you're an aspiring creator who's hesitant to take that first step, you need to read this interview!

First of all, you're absolutely nailing it on social media. It's been an amazing journey for you. Do you ever pause, smile, and think, “Wow, I'm finally where I always dreamed of being?”

Honestly? Yes, sometimes I do pause, smile, and just soak it all in. There are these quiet moments, especially late at night after a long shoot or edit, when I just sit back and think, “Is this really happening?” But at the same time, I feel like I'm just getting started. Every new milestone feels surreal, but it also reminds me that there's so much more I want to create and explore. I'm beyond grateful, but also hungry to grow.

From 9-to-5 to full-time content, what was that exact moment when you knew, "I have to leave this job”?

Honestly, when you know, you just know. My biggest driving force was having built a family on Instagram through my followers. Creating content for them never felt like work, it was so fulfilling. I just realised I needed to shift my energies back to myself. And while I loved creating content for my company, nothing compares to the happiness I felt while working on my page. I've never looked back, literally the best decision!

From social media manager to creator, what's one corporate skill that secretly helps you slay content life today?

Time-blocking and creative planning! Working in a structured environment taught me how to break down big goals into bite-sized, achievable steps. That discipline really helps me be consistent and intentional with my content calendar. Also, understanding brand language and audience targeting gives me an edge while planning collaborations. People think content is spontaneous, but it's equal parts strategy and soul.

What would Aashi-the-employee say to Aashi-the-creator today?

She'd probably laugh and say, “We really did it, huh?” And then she'd cry happy tears and remind me to stay grounded, keep creating from the heart, and never forget why we started. She'd also give me a little pep talk about imposter syndrome, because no matter how far we've come, those doubts still creep in. But above all, she'd be proud that I chose courage over comfort.

If I told you two years ago that you'd be starring in a T-Series music video, would you have believed it? How did it happen, and what was your reaction when you got the offer? Did you have a "pinch me" moment?

You know, the world around you will always ask you to lower your dreams, expectations, and ambitions, constantly. And my case was no different. I was constantly told, “Zyada udh mat,” “Get back to reality.” Arey, par mujhe sapne dekhne hain? Toh dekhne hain! You know the feeling you get when you prove everyone who second-guessed you wrong? It's unmatched.

Because I know my dreams aren't delusions. They may take a hell of a lot of effort and time, but one thing about me is that I won't give up till I get there. This music video was just one such manifestation of my dreams through constant hard work.

If you had told me two years ago that I'd be starring in a T-Series music video, I honestly wouldn't have believed it. It still feels surreal. When I got the call, I was over the moon and had tears of joy. After being away from home for three months, through countless ups and downs, to finally have something tangible... oof, no better feeling. And what a boost to make me work even harder.

I think the real “pinch me” moment hit when I stepped onto the set and saw the scale of the production. The lights, the crew, the vibe, it all felt like a dream. It's one of those moments I'll never forget, and I'm so grateful for it.

How was the overall experience shooting the music video? And what's one thing you learned from that experience that's going to stay with you for a long time?

The overall experience taught me how powerful teamwork is. From lighting to choreography to direction, every person on set plays a huge role in what you see on screen. It humbled me and reminded me how much more I want to learn as a performer. It's an experience I'll always carry with me, as someone who wants to keep growing in the world of storytelling.

You're making phenomenal content like 'Laila Majnu' with a strong storytelling core. It's not easy! How do you prepare yourself creatively? What goes into making it look that good?

For me, every piece of content is like a film. I can't just “act,” I have to emotionally feel the story. So, I study the characters, break down their body language, and rehearse until it flows naturally. I also spend time on moodboards and sound design, because visuals and audio go hand in hand in evoking emotions. The goal is always to make the audience feel something, even if it's just for 30 seconds. And that takes a lot of mental prep and heart.

Does acting excite you? Did you grow up idolising Bollywood or acting in front of your mirror?

Oh, absolutely. I've been a Bollywood baby since day one. I used to mimic dialogues in front of the mirror. I still listen to music while getting ready and lip-sync like I'm in my own movie — full main character energy, every single time! Acting has always excited me, but I never imagined it would be a real career path. The more I do it now, even in small ways, the more alive I feel. It's a dream I didn't know I was allowed to chase, and now I never want to stop.

The space you're in is fast-paced and demanding. How do you deal with pressure or rejection? What keeps you grounded and going?

I've learned that pressure is part of the process, not a sign to stop. When things don't work out or numbers don't hit, I remind myself that I'm building something long-term, not chasing overnight validation. My family, especially my mom, really helps me stay grounded. She reminds me that the world outside Instagram matters too. I also take breaks when needed, and most importantly, I create from joy, not fear.

One content creator you think is absolutely killing it right now?

One content creator who's absolutely killing it right now is my friend Rajan Arora. I've seen his journey, and the consistency and effort he puts into every piece of content is truly inspiring. He's constantly evolving and finding ways to connect with his audience.

And finally, what's one message you'd love to give to creators who are still stuck in a job, dreaming of breaking out like you did?

I know how scary it is. I've been there, sitting at a desk, watching others chase their dreams, wondering, “When will it be my turn?” My advice: start small, stay consistent, and don't wait for the perfect time, because it doesn't exist. You don't have to quit everything overnight. Just start choosing yourself a little more every day. You are allowed to bet on your passion. And when you do, the universe listens.