A year ago, I embarked on a journey at IIM Lucknow, driven by the pursuit of professional growth. I sought knowledge, expertise, and a refined understanding of business dynamics. But as I stand at the end of this transformative chapter, I realize I am leaving with something far greater—a profound evolution of my spirit, character, and perception of life.
What began as a quest for professional excellence soon unfolded into a deeply personal and spiritual exploration. The structured curriculum, case discussions, and strategic frameworks were invaluable, but what truly shaped me was the realization that growth is not just about skills—it’s about resilience, patience, and self-discipline. And nowhere was this lesson more evident than in a simple yet powerful idea: “I can think, I can wait, I can fast.”
The Wisdom of Siddhartha: The Lessons We Often Overlook
Hermann Hesse’s Siddhartha tells the story of a man in search of enlightenment. When asked about his abilities, Siddhartha humbly states:
“I can think, I can wait, I can fast.”
At first glance, these may seem like ordinary statements. But as I reflected on them, I saw their profound relevance—not just in spiritual journeys but in our professional and personal lives as well.
Thinking: The Power of Deep Contemplation
In an environment as intense as IIM, quick decisions and rapid problem-solving are often celebrated. But I realized that the true power lies in the ability to pause, reflect, and analyze beyond the obvious. Critical thinking is not just about finding solutions—it is about questioning assumptions, challenging biases, and understanding perspectives beyond our own. The ability to think deeply is what sets apart great leaders from the rest.
Waiting: The Strength in Patience
Patience is an underrated virtue in a world that demands instant results. IIM taught me that waiting is not about inaction—it is about perseverance. There were times when ideas took longer to materialize, when failures felt discouraging, when the next step seemed uncertain. But waiting allowed me to develop resilience, to trust the process, and to realize that true success is not immediate—it is earned over time.
Fasting: The Discipline to Endure
Fasting is not just about food—it is about the ability to withstand hardships and resist temptations. In the corporate world, in leadership, and in life, there will be moments of struggle, of deprivation, of difficult choices. The ability to endure, to sacrifice short-term pleasures for long-term goals, is what defines true strength. At IIM, I learned to push beyond my comfort zone, to embrace challenges with determination, and to understand that true discipline is the key to transformation.
More Than an Institution—A Journey of Self-Discovery
IIM Lucknow was not just an academic experience; it was a crucible that shaped my mind, spirit, and character. I came seeking professional advancement, but I left with something far deeper—an understanding of what it means to be a better human being.
Beyond business models and strategy decks, I learned that the greatest asset is self-awareness, the greatest skill is patience, and the greatest success is inner peace.
A heartfelt thanks to Professor Neerja Pande, whose guidance in communication not only refined my professional skills but also enlightened us with a path of spirituality and wisdom, leading to profound personal and professional growth.
As we strive for excellence in our careers, let us not forget to nurture the qualities that make us better individuals—the ability to think, to wait, and to fast. Because in mastering these, we master not just our professions but our very existence.
This is not just my story—it is a reminder for all of us, and a lesson we must pass on to the next generation.