Leadership, Patience, and Purpose: A father's Perspective

The arrival of my son, Aagaman, has deeply transformed how I view life, purpose, and leadership. As I hold him and watch him grow, I feel a sense of responsibility that’s far more profound than anything I’ve known. This shift has led me to reflect on the concept of existentialism, especially through the lens of Jean-Paul Sartre, who famously wrote, "Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does." This idea resonates powerfully with me now. As a father, I’m constantly reminded of the choices I make—how each action, however small, influences the life he will grow into and the values he will inherit.

Reading Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning in this new light has also been revelatory. Frankl’s view that "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves," now feels more relevant than ever. With Aagaman here, I approach my work with renewed optimism, as his presence has taught me to find meaning and purpose even in the daily grind. I’ve started to see challenges at work as opportunities, focusing on the growth and well-being of those around me rather than simply hitting targets or chasing goals.

A similar approach to selfless leadership and dedication can be seen in The Pursuit of Happyness. In the film, Chris Gardner (played by Will Smith) faces relentless challenges and setbacks. Yet, he sacrifices his own comfort and dignity to give his son a better future, embodying the essence of leadership that is not self-centered but focused on lifting others. His journey reminds me that true leadership is about empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to those who rely on us.

In reflecting on leadership, I am reminded of the myth of Sisyphus, who was condemned to roll a boulder up a hill only to see it roll back down, over and over. Although his task seems hopeless, philosopher Albert Camus famously suggested that “one must imagine Sisyphus happy.” For me, this myth speaks to the resilience and perseverance inherent in both parenthood and leadership. Leading others can often feel like pushing a boulder uphill, yet the real meaning lies in embracing the journey, finding hope in small victories, and building strength from the process. Inspired by Aagaman, I am learning that leadership, like life, is about finding purpose in the climb and inspiring others to do the same.