Minorities all over the world are trapped in a dichotomy. On one hand, you are visible, because you are different. On the other hand, you are invisible, because your perspective doesn’t align or even matter to people who aren’t different. When we say who we truly are and what we feel–we make people feel uncomfortable.
As startup founder, I believe the most important thing is having a team that loves to learn. Startups begin with a spark — an idea, a belief, a vision. They spring into existence to do something that not many other companies are doing. No matter how great your business idea may be, you won’t get very far if you don’t have the right people to turn your ideas into reality.
What is my ideal day? Like all innocuous questions, it was easy to ask and difficult to answer. I think of all the things I love doing – like travelling, eating out and hiking – all of which are not possible right now because of the Coronavirus.
Apprentice-style learn-by-doing is a trademark of Gujarati businesses. I had learnt under a master from the day I emerged from the womb. Business school felt trivial and theoretical in comparison. During my first year, I gave my lecturers a hard time by misbehaving and sleeping in class. My good grades came as a surprise to them. Who needs school when life is our best teacher?
Most people love the idea of being a ‘boss’. They want nothing more than to be ‘in charge’. They love being the top dog, the alpha, the one that runs the whole show. Unfortunately, most people want to rule over others. They have no idea how to lead others. This isn’t surprising. Leadership isn’t a subject that’s taught in school or a skill that’s actively encouraged.
