How does a middle-class mindset help build better founders?
As I sat down with Sameer Maheshwari, CEO of HealthKart, a leading online health and wellness platform, I couldn’t help but notice the humility and gratitude that radiated from him. It was as if the struggles he faced growing up in a middle-class family had forged him into the resilient entrepreneur he is today. His story is a testament to the transformative power of a middle-class mindset, and the values it instills in entrepreneurs.
Growing up in a middle-class family can be challenging, to say the least. The financial constraints, the lack of luxury, and the constant struggle to make ends meet can be overwhelming. But Sameer’s experience is a prime example of how these challenges can shape an individual’s journey, teaching them valuable lessons that can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs.
Resilience: The First Lesson
Sameer’s journey began in a small town in India, where his family struggled to make ends meet. His parents worked hard to provide for him and his siblings, but it was a constant battle to balance the books. This early exposure to financial struggles instilled in him a sense of resilience, which would serve him well in the years to come.
“When you’re growing up in a middle-class family, you learn to be resourceful and adaptable,” Sameer explains. “You have to find ways to make do with what you have, to stretch your resources, and to be frugal. This mindset helps you build a strong foundation, and it becomes a default way of thinking.”
As an entrepreneur, Sameer credits this resilience with helping him navigate the ups and downs of starting a business. “When things go wrong, which they inevitably do, you need to be able to bounce back,” he says. “A middle-class mindset teaches you to be proactive, to take risks, and to learn from your mistakes. This is essential for entrepreneurs, who often face uncertainty and unpredictability.”
Frugality: The Second Lesson
Growing up in a middle-class family also taught Sameer the value of frugality. He learned to be mindful of every rupee, to prioritize his spending, and to find ways to save. This frugality became a habit, and it has served him well in his business ventures.
“Frugality is not just about saving money; it’s about being intentional with your resources,” Sameer explains. “When you’re an entrepreneur, you have limited resources, and you need to make the most of them. A middle-class mindset helps you prioritize, to focus on what’s essential, and to eliminate waste. This discipline is crucial for building a sustainable business.”
Grit: The Third Lesson
Finally, Sameer’s middle-class upbringing instilled in him a sense of grit, a determination to succeed despite the odds. Growing up, he faced numerous challenges, from limited financial resources to limited opportunities. But he never gave up, and he never lost sight of his goals.
“Grit is what separates successful entrepreneurs from those who give up,” Sameer says. “When you’re from a middle-class background, you learn to persevere, to push through obstacles, and to stay focused on your goals. This grit is essential for overcoming the challenges that come with starting a business.”
The Entrepreneurial Advantage
So, what does a middle-class mindset bring to the table for entrepreneurs? Sameer believes that it provides a unique set of values that can’t be replicated with money or privilege.
“Privilege and safety nets may provide temporary comfort, but they don’t prepare you for the real world,” Sameer explains. “A middle-class mindset, on the other hand, teaches you to be resourceful, adaptable, and resilient. It gives you the skills and the mindset to build a successful business, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity.”
Conclusion
Sameer’s story is a testament to the power of a middle-class mindset. It’s a reminder that success is not solely dependent on privilege or wealth, but on the values and lessons that we learn along the way. As entrepreneurs, we can learn from Sameer’s experiences, and cultivate the same resilience, frugality, and grit that have helped him build a successful business.
So, the next time you find yourself facing a challenge or obstacle, remember that you have the power to overcome it. Draw on the lessons of a middle-class mindset, and use them to build a stronger, more resilient you. With this mindset, you’ll be unstoppable.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/founders-corner/middle-class-mindset-founder/
