Why I refused an international speaking opportunity

“Paying in any form for a speaking assignment is against my ethics. And I don’t compromise on that”, was my 2 sentence reply as I rejected an apparently big opportunity as a speaker. 

This would’ve put me on the international arena and I so wanted that. I was to address young entrepreneurs and leaders and that too at a global stage. The event was supported by United Nations; an organization I wanted to be part of since my childhood. Part of the expenses was to be born by the organizers and I was to bear flight tickets.

I could certainly afford but I refused. This is not the first time I’ve done that. I don't charge; but I certainly don't pay as well.

I know that accepting that opportunity would’ve been a great PR boost for me elevating my personal brand. I could’ve flashed the invitation, shared numerous social media stories and posts making it seem as a real big deal. It certainly is a big deal. You don’t get to speak at an international event to global audience everyday. I would’ve made tons of significant connections propelling both personal and business prospects. Even if I leave the learning opportunity aside, it was something I am personally very passionate about. And that made rejecting it a very difficult decision.

Trust me, accepting the offer would’ve made tons of sense and I get it. I am an entrepreneur with 17+ years of experience of building businesses. I know what an opportunity like this means. I also understand the necessities of branding, networking and marketing.

But there are things that are not for sale. There are things you can’t trade off. There are things you don’t compromise upon.

So, here is why I said no:

1.    I genuinely believe I have a responsibility to inspire younger generations. We all have. I believe they look up to me as a role model.

And I want my life to be my message. Not merely what I say, but what I do as well.

Accepting offers like this would’ve given a reason to the young entrepreneurs and leaders to do similar stunts because it’s glamorous. By seeing the social media applause I am getting for this, young people would naturally desire the same and that would take their focus away from “doing” things. There are 100s of organization giving awards and flashy opportunities like this and they charge fees in the names of “organizing expenses”; young people fall prey to that. I cannot contribute to this mad rat race. 

2.    In a country where young people should be focusing on building a financial security and giving their families a better life, seeing them running behind flashy dramas like this is unfortunate.

They are seduced by the glamour of entrepreneurship and media. Even worse, the “encouragement gang” rallies behind making them climb the wrong mountains.

Over glorification of hustle and media stories is not worth in the end. It’s not real. And I cannot contribute to this. I would rather say and live the truth. My truth.

3.    An opportunity like this by the nature of it is prone to be seen larger than the message I deliver. Young people see the stage and grandeur of it and miss out the message.

I stand for real work, not only the talk. If sharing my story inspires people; I’d rather do the real thing.

I will use social media or if I can afford the time and money; I’d rather travel to the ones who are deprived. Like I did in #RoadtoBharat; an initiative which inspires the deprived and needy ones to stand up and fight for their futures. I did take help from family and friends. And you can too.

4.    In a world where I see almost everybody especially the encouragement gang flashing their “speaker here, speaker there” tags, knowing the real story is easy for someone like me who has spent a lot of time behind the scenes and orchestrating shows like this. And trust me the social pressure is too much.

Your brain tells you to accept and use it to your advantage. But it takes a toll on your soul. You know it’s not real. You know the truth. You feel fake. And I can’t live with that.

I also suggest that everyone must do what he or she really feels for. I you believe it’s important enough; then go for it. Don’t listen to anyone.

Now, some may argue that nobody has to know that I paid for some expenses. And it’s a no big deal if I pay a small portion. 

But I would always know that. And isn’t that enough? Is there anything else that matters?