How does a middle-class mindset help build better founders?
As I sat down with Sameer Maheshwari, CEO of HealthKart, one of India’s leading online health and wellness platforms, I was struck by his remarkable story of resilience and grit. As we delved deeper into his journey, it became clear that his middle-class upbringing played a significant role in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit. In an era where privilege and safety nets are often seen as essential for success, Sameer’s story is a testament to the power of a middle-class mindset in building better founders.
Growing up in a modest household, Sameer and his family had to work hard to make ends meet. This reality instilled in him a sense of frugality and resourcefulness that served him well throughout his life. “When you’re not used to having things handed to you, you learn to appreciate what you have and make the most of it,” he says. This mindset allowed him to focus on his strengths and interests, rather than relying on family connections or inherited wealth. For Sameer, the middle-class mindset was a catalyst for innovation and creativity, as he had to rely on his own skills and abilities to achieve his goals.
One of the most significant advantages of a middle-class upbringing is the absence of safety nets. With no backup plan or financial cushion, Sameer learned to take calculated risks and adapt to unexpected setbacks. “When you’re not insulated from failure, you’re forced to be more resilient and resourceful,” he explains. This ability to bounce back from adversity is a critical skill for any entrepreneur, and Sameer credits his middle-class upbringing with teaching him the importance of perseverance.
Another key takeaway from Sameer’s experience is the value of earning everything. As a middle-class child, he didn’t have the luxury of relying on others to provide for him. He had to work hard to achieve his goals, whether it was getting good grades, landing a job, or starting his own business. This sense of agency and self-reliance has been a driving force behind his success, as he believes that every achievement is a direct result of his own efforts.
So, how does this middle-class mindset help build better founders? For Sameer, it’s all about the values it instills. “When you’re born with a silver spoon, you may have access to resources and connections, but you often lack the sense of purpose and drive that comes from earning everything,” he explains. In contrast, a middle-class upbringing teaches you to appreciate the value of hard work, to be frugal and resourceful, and to be resilient in the face of adversity. These values are essential for any entrepreneur, as they provide a foundation for long-term success and help to build a strong, sustainable business.
In an era where startup founders are often portrayed as young, ambitious, and well-connected, Sameer’s story is a refreshing reminder of the power of a middle-class mindset. His journey is a testament to the fact that success is not solely dependent on privilege or family connections, but rather on the values and skills that one develops through hard work and determination.
As we wrap up our conversation, I ask Sameer what advice he would give to young entrepreneurs who are just starting out. His response is simple yet profound: “Don’t rely on others to provide for you. Work hard, be frugal, and be resilient. These values will serve you well, regardless of where you come from or what obstacles you face.” For Sameer, the middle-class mindset is not just a personal experience, but a universal truth that can be applied to anyone who seeks to build a successful business.
Source: https://ascendants.in/founders-corner/middle-class-mindset-founder/
