How does a middle-class mindset help build better founders?
As the CEO of HealthKart, Sameer Maheshwari’s journey is a testament to the power of a middle-class mindset in shaping the entrepreneurial spirit. Grit, resilience, and frugality are just a few of the values that he attributes to his humble beginnings, which have helped him navigate the challenges of building a successful startup.
In today’s world, where privilege and safety nets are often seen as the keys to success, Sameer’s story is a refreshing reminder that true entrepreneurial spirit can be nurtured in the most unlikely of environments. In this Founder’s Corner, we delve into the role of a middle-class mindset in building better founders and explore the lessons that Sameer has learned along the way.
Growing up in a middle-class family, Sameer knew that he had to work hard to achieve his goals. He did not have the luxury of taking risks or making mistakes, as every decision had a direct impact on his family’s well-being. This sense of responsibility instilled in him a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn from his mistakes.
One of the most significant advantages of a middle-class mindset is the ability to earn everything. Without the safety net of a wealthy background, Sameer had to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. This taught him the value of hard work, the importance of being frugal, and the need to be resourceful in the face of adversity.
As he started his entrepreneurial journey, Sameer realized that these values were essential in building a successful startup. He learned to be adaptable, to pivot when necessary, and to make do with limited resources. These skills, he believes, are invaluable in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.
Another key aspect of a middle-class mindset is resilience. When faced with setbacks or failures, Sameer knew that he had to bounce back quickly. He could not afford to dwell on his mistakes or let them define him. This resilience has been instrumental in helping him navigate the challenges of building a startup, where failure is an inevitable part of the journey.
A middle-class mindset also teaches you to be humble and grounded. Sameer’s upbringing instilled in him a sense of humility, which has served him well in his entrepreneurial journey. He knows that he is not above criticism and is always open to feedback and suggestions from others.
In contrast, founders from privileged backgrounds may have a different set of values and assumptions that can sometimes hinder their growth. They may be less inclined to take risks, as they have the safety net of their wealth to fall back on. They may also be less likely to be frugal, as they are accustomed to a certain level of luxury and comfort.
A middle-class mindset, on the other hand, is built on the principles of hard work, resilience, and resourcefulness. These values are essential in building a successful startup, as they provide the foundation for adaptability, innovation, and determination.
So, how can founders cultivate a middle-class mindset, even if they come from a privileged background? Sameer believes that it is essential to surround yourself with people from diverse backgrounds and to be open to learning from their experiences. You should also be willing to take calculated risks, to be frugal, and to be resilient in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, a middle-class mindset can be a powerful catalyst for building better founders. The values of hard work, resilience, and frugality are essential in building a successful startup, and they can be cultivated by anyone, regardless of their background. By embracing these values, founders can build a strong foundation for their entrepreneurial journey and develop the skills and resilience needed to overcome the challenges that they will inevitably face.
About the Author:
Sameer Maheshwari is the CEO of HealthKart, a leading online health and nutrition platform. He is a passionate entrepreneur and a strong advocate for the importance of a middle-class mindset in building successful startups.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/founders-corner/middle-class-mindset-founder/
