Are You A Leader? Or An Ostrich?

Leadership is tested not in denial, but in recognition. Avoiding uncomfortable truths may feel safe, but it weakens credibility. Courageous leadership begins by acknowledging problems, owning misjudgements, and facing criticism head-on. Only then can meaningful change begin.

Leading From Behind

Leadership is not always about being out in front. At times, it means leading from behind by empowering others, setting direction, and allowing people to step forward with confidence when the moment calls for it.

Good Guys Do Finish First

Muttiah Muralitharan’s farewell was more than a cricketing milestone. It was a reminder that excellence and decency can coexist. In a fiercely competitive sport, true greatness is revealed not just through records, but through character, humility, and respect.

Your Attitude Determines Your Altitude

The redwood tree grows from a tiny seed into the tallest tree on earth through resilience and adaptability. Inspired by this spirit, our Redwood Awards honour individuals whose attitude and character shape how high they rise.

Interviewing The Interviewer

Over the years, I’ve interviewed hundreds of candidates. Many interviewees miss a simple truth. An interview is not one sided. It’s a space where candidates must ask questions to assess the organisation, its leadership, culture, and values.

IPL: Great Product, Lousy Service!

I went to an IPL match expecting great cricket. Instead, I faced ticketing chaos and long queues, waiting calmly even as a bomb blast went off. The match began, but the customer experience was underwhelming, to put it mildly.

Freebies – A Double-Edged Sword!

A small moment at a supermarket reminded me how fragile brand trust really is. A poorly made freebie thrilled my son but made me question the judgment behind it. Freebies can delight customers, or quietly undo years of careful brand-building.

First Impression = Best Impression?

As a teenager, I was swept away by Rajiv Gandhi’s charisma and presence. Years later, leadership taught me a harder truth. First impressions may open doors, but they rarely predict who will actually perform, endure, and shape history over time.

Kerr’s Folly & Indian Hockey

Last evening, as India slipped out of Hockey World Cup contention, I thought back to the celebrations after our Pakistan win. The rewards felt generous, yet unsettling. A classic case of Kerr’s Folly, undermining teamwork in a team sport.

Never Give Up

“Never give up” is more than a phrase for me. This poem captures the faith, patience and inner strength that help me endure uncertainty and keep moving forward when the road feels long.