#Choosetochallenge - IWD 2021

International Women’s Day 2021

#ChampionWomanTruth : #Choosetochallenge needs to start with yourself first. 

Growing up, I was afraid of mediocrity as well as of life in the fast lane. Fast forward three decades, and I was airily air-kissing hundreds of expatriates as an entrepreneur. 

I was raised by Tamil Brahmin parents in an ambiance where public display of affection was out of the question. What happened? Well I chose to challenge myself to expand boundaries, without compromising on core values. 

I chose to shatter the mould of ‘mammi’ while saying a firm No to drugs, drink and strapless outfits. I marched on to open the first relocation and cross-cultural company – Global Adjustments – with over 450 MNCs as clients.  

At first, I would shake hands with my clients only inside the office, as I feared people watching would think me ‘too modern’. But soon I realized that the handshake, a hug and air-kissing were a natural progression of trust and comfort as seen through their values, even if not my own. 

I would brace myself, close my eyes and simply stretch out my face. Once done, we got down to business! I saw that I was like them, only in different clothing. 

We offered schooling, health, realty, all under one roof. Business boomed. People of 52 nationalities joined our recent silver jubilee celebrations. 

I had made friends for India by challenging my comfort zone, embracing their success literally and figuratively. 

What do you #choosetochallenge yourself in?