A contrarian view: Bhagat Singh and the will to win
A freedom that is only asked for is rarely given. What Bhagat Singh's stand says about will, in a nation's struggle and in business.
Bhagat Singh, a young visionary with a fire in his heart, refused to bow down to British oppression. In the face of colonial rule, he chose a path of direct action and sacrifice, taking a resolute stand against injustice. His actions were borne out of the frustration and urgency of those who believed that direct action was the only language the oppressors understood.
I don't mean to take anything away from Mohandas Gandhi's commitment to free Bharat. But I believe that for a nation's freedom struggle, as in life and as in business, it is unrealistic to expect that what you want will be served to you on a silver platter if you just ask for it nicely.
In our work with people and organizations, the one thing I have seen as the key differentiator between performance and non-performance is the resolution of will. In other words, the stand people take for their word: to not bend against any circumstances, and to make a difference.
And the victory, when it comes, cannot come as alms, or as an act of benevolence from your oppressor or your competitor. It can't be handed over. The win has to be your own, born out of your own free spirit and intentional efforts. The feud between Tata and JLR, and its eventual conclusion, comes to mind.
That's why, when I read about mompreneurs like Riddhi Sharma, and their journeys in both raising wonderful children and building extraordinary businesses, my belief in the power of our word is reinforced.
I am naturally inspired by the deep connection between Bharat's culture and the power of the word, and I am upbeat about the rekindling of this ancient movement.
To everyone reading this: I wish that this Independence Day, your relationship with your word and with your country becomes extraordinary.