Conversations At Shiv Nadar University

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to spend a couple of hours with the incoming first-year MBA students at Shiv Nadar University. We spoke about The Inner Game… the idea that while students strive for visible outcomes like grades, placements, salaries, and job titles, what truly shapes those outcomes often lies beneath the surface… mindset, energy, focus, and trust.

The session was incredibly engaging and interactive. The students were sharp, curious, and asked some wonderfully thoughtful questions… about handling pressure, managing expectations, staying focused when everything feels important. I must admit I was genuinely impressed by their curiosity, openness, and maturity.

While every generation grows up in a different world, the inner journey doesn’t really change. We all experience self-doubt, face setbacks, and wonder whether we’re good enough. And sooner or later, most of us discover that success isn’t determined only by what we know or what we achieve, but also by how we respond when things don’t go according to plan.

The conversation also reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time. We spend years preparing for the challenges the world throws at us, but far less time understanding the ones within ourselves. Yet it’s the inner work that often shapes the decisions we make, the relationships we build, and ultimately, the lives we create.

My heartfelt thanks to Mugunth for the opportunity… and to all the students for making it such a memorable session.