Self-Made Man – No such thing

We always proudly use this term “Self-Made man”. The concept of being a "self-made" person typically highlights someone who has achieved success or overcome challenges through personal effort, determination and hard work. However, the idea that anyone is entirely "self-made" seems to be a myth.

Is self-made is possible?

Last week I was attending an online workshop conducted by CII with the topic “Winning with People”.

I have attended this training for half an hour, during this session the trainer was Mr. Suresh Mohan Semwal (Leadership Coach, Author of several books), and this is the first time I am hearing Mr. Semwal. He is speaking on many points but that touched me is – “Self -Made Man”

This left me with thoughts, one -positive impact and two - deep thinking mode.

I also use this terminology “self-made man” for myself, and I am proud of it. But I never realized or never given a thought that I am self-made, and this is because of the outcome of Support, Guidance, Mentorship, teaching, development of parents, siblings, teachers, friends, bosses, colleagues and even people we interact day today like grocery store person, vegetable shop vendor, hairdresser and lot more. They teach us indirectly while discussing their success or failure.

I realized that someone gave birth to you and kept you alive. Someone saw that you received an education. Someone built the physical, economic, and cultural infrastructures of society that supported your efforts. Someone hired you or bought your goods or services.

Our personality is the result of our family upbringing, emotional Support to build confidence.

Family inducts values and develops ethics, discipline, impart teachers and education, given guidance and Mentorship.

?In my view, during our journey to a mature man, teaching from others play vital role in personality development. Learn from the failures and mistakes of others. This helps prevent own setbacks. Advice from family, teachers, mentors steer you in the right direction.

?Conclusion: The notion of being self-made is inspiring because it reflects personal initiative, resilience, and drive. However, the reality is that no one succeeds in isolation. The journey is often influenced by family, mentors, friends, education, society, and even luck. Acknowledging the contributions of others doesn’t diminish individual accomplishments but rather provides a more complete picture of success.