When I was 15

An astrophysicist – that’s what I wanted to be!!

My curiosity about the forces of creation, sustenance and destruction in the vastness of the universe, my love for mathematics, and my introverted nature – all combined to make this my dream. Coupled with my desire to study at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, my goal was therefore to get into the Engineering Physics programme.

At fate would have it, I made it successfully into IIT Bombay, but didn’t get into Engineering Physics. I began a programme in Chemical Engineering. I told myself – never mind, I’ll switch after the first year.

But something strange occurred in that first year at IIT. I was drawn out of my shell, getting deeply involved in team activities in dramatics and sports. I started to realise how much of success in life is due not to the sole ability of the individual, but to the eco-system around him/her. And the passion and dedication with which we feed and nurture this eco-system is what creates a culture of fun, boldness and trust, and eventually translates into success.

One of the most common refrains in our hostel during team events used to be “Come for cheering!”. Regardless of whether we ourselves were playing or performing, we would invariably turn out to cheer others on. Knowing that someone always has your back is the most exhilarating feeling. It removes the fear of failure and the pressure of success, and keeps you focussed on the task at hand. You know that in your effort, you cannot let down those who believe in you and are willing you to succeed.

I grew more and more interested in discovering what motivates peoples’ actions, what makes teams tick, and how to get them into the right psychological state for positive action, reflection and recovery from setbacks. Over the years, I found these lessons especially useful not only in the workplace, but also in life beyond work.

I eventually found my calling in the energy industry, and especially in the renewable energy and cleantech domains. What’s at least as satisfying are the instances when I can be a catalyst for the success of the people and the organisations I serve in these domains.

I could never have imagined this at 15. While I didn’t become an astrophysicist, I do look up at the heavens in wonder. And remain grounded on the Earth that I hope to serve to the best of my ability.

#WhenIWas15