How Does a Middle-Class Mindset Help Build Better Founders?
As the old adage goes, “necessity is the mother of invention.” For many entrepreneurs, it’s the harsh realities of growing up in a middle-class background that instills the grit, resilience, and frugality necessary to build successful businesses. Sameer Maheshwari, CEO of HealthKart, is a testament to this notion. In an exclusive interview with Ascendants, he shares how his middle-class upbringing shaped his entrepreneurial journey, teaching him valuable lessons that have propelled him to success.
Growing up in a middle-class family, Sameer faced numerous challenges that forced him to rely on his wits and resourcefulness. “I didn’t have the luxury of taking risks or making mistakes,” he recalls. “Every decision had to be carefully thought out, and every rupee had to be earned.” This hyper-awareness of financial constraints instilled in him a strong sense of frugality, which has remained a guiding principle throughout his entrepreneurial career.
The absence of privilege or safety nets also taught Sameer to be resilient in the face of adversity. “When you’re not used to having things handed to you on a platter, you learn to rely on yourself,” he explains. “You develop a ‘can-do’ attitude, which helps you bounce back from setbacks and failures.” This quality of resilience has been instrumental in propelling HealthKart to success, as Sameer and his team have had to navigate numerous challenges, from regulatory hurdles to market competition.
Moreover, growing up in a middle-class environment forced Sameer to be resourceful and creative. “We didn’t have the means to hire professionals for everything, so I had to learn to do things myself,” he recalls. This DIY ethos has served him well in his entrepreneurial journey, allowing him to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and think outside the box.
The middle-class mindset also instilled in Sameer a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility. “I knew that every rupee I earned was a result of my hard work, and I was accountable for every decision I made,” he explains. This sense of responsibility has been crucial in building trust with investors, customers, and employees, all of whom appreciate Sameer’s commitment to excellence.
In an era where entrepreneurship is increasingly glamorized, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a middle-class mindset. However, Sameer believes that this approach gives founders a significant edge. “Values like frugality, resilience, and hard work are intangible assets that no amount of money can buy,” he argues. “These qualities are essential for building a successful business, and they’re often overlooked in the rush to attract investors or build a brand.”
Moreover, the middle-class mindset is not just about personal traits; it’s also about the relationships you build along the way. “Growing up in a middle-class environment taught me the value of networks and relationships,” Sameer explains. “I learned to collaborate, to ask for help, and to build strong relationships with people who shared my values.” This ability to build and maintain strong networks has been crucial in HealthKart’s success, as Sameer has cultivated a team of talented individuals who share his vision and are committed to achieving it.
As entrepreneurs, we often focus on the visible traits that define success – charisma, confidence, and a willingness to take risks. However, Sameer’s story serves as a powerful reminder that it’s the invisible qualities – resilience, frugality, and hard work – that truly set successful founders apart. By embracing the middle-class mindset, entrepreneurs can develop the values and skills necessary to build successful businesses, even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Sameer’s journey is a testament to the power of the middle-class mindset in building successful entrepreneurs. By embracing the challenges and constraints of growing up in a middle-class environment, Sameer developed the qualities that have propelled him to success – resilience, frugality, and hard work. As entrepreneurs, we would do well to remember that these values are not just essential for building successful businesses, but also for building strong relationships and cultivating a sense of responsibility and accountability.
Source: https://ascendants.in/founders-corner/middle-class-mindset-founder/
