Generation Gap and learning from my father!

Like every son, I went through the phases of thinking my father is a superman to he knows nothing, understand nothing and finally oh God, he knows everything! There are many people who have influenced me, but no one’s influence has been greater than my father. Personally, and professionally what I am as an individual reflects what he taught me. Before I share 7 things he taught me, do read the small poem, I wrote as a tribute to him.

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There is no age limit for learning:

When he started working he was a matriculate, but he continued his education and not only did he graduate, he did many courses which related to materials management, procurement and negotiations which enriched him professionally. ?My first exposure to reading was when I raided his trunk containing books, I ended up devouring rashi rathi, rajni aur taare etc. Some of the books were beyond my age, but he said and I realized no reading is bad reading. I have continued the habit, I read everything I could land my hands on.?

(1) You are responsible!

Working in a PSU meant many comforts, but when there was a mega breakdown and some parts critical to operations were to be brought from Durgapur to Bokaro, he travelled in the truck and got the material himself, cutting through all red-tapes and bottlenecks. His job did not require him to do this, but he felt responsible. Always have a feeling of responsibility and accountability to whatever you do was his mantra.

(2) You are not respected for your dress, you are respected for your expertise

He never tucked his shirts and almost never wore shoes (unless required), it was his way of being in touch with his roots! It was his way of showing respect is never gained from external appearance.

?(3) What Cannot be cured, must be endured!

There are many things you have very little control over, so focus on what you could influence and control and leave the rest. Fretting over what is not in your control will make you lose sight of what you could do to mitigate the situation.

(4) Everything is transitory, “Sab Maya Hai”

This too shall pass is something I learnt from him more than Bhagwat Gita could have ever taught me. He was very sincere in believing that, whether it is a good time or a bad time, both will pass, as nothing is permanent.?

(5) Everything has a designated time!

He was very particular about finishing daily chores on designated time and it instilled the habit of getting up at 5.00 am, even before Robin Sharma, popularized the concept of 5.00 am club.

(6) Marrying & having kids at the right time!

He said one should get married and have kids while father is alive. He said you will never be financially and mentally be ready for marriage and parenthood. Nothing would ever be enough, you will always miss something. Marrying and becoming parents at the right time would give you all the time in world to ensure you have enough or you make do with what you have as enough.

(7) Do job, as if it was your business and run business like an employee.

He always maintained, if you want to succeed as a professional, don’t do anything you would not do if it was your business! This includes spending on things you would not do in your own business, hiring people beyond requirement because it is company’s money. Similarly to succeed as an entrepreneur; maintain discipline of a job, have an office, maintain an office time, draw a salary. You have to understand you don’t own the business, you merely serve it. ??