Every professional and leader today is looking for life-changing tips and tricks to succeed in their life. In fact as the world of work gets more and more unpredictable and fluid, one wonders, -what is the right job? How should I lead? Where should I work? And what should I do?

All we have to do is look around for answers and inspiration from others who have transcended on a similar learning journey. In a recent webinar hosted by SOIL Institute of Management, Ravi Venkatesan, UNICEF Special Representative, Former Chairman - Microsoft India shares some life lessons from his journey. 

“Every job that I have done is not because I was qualified to do it but because I was fascinated by it,” said Ravi. 

He spoke to SOIL Institute of Management Founder & Chairman, Anil Sachdev and shared how you can become a better version of yourself. Here are some key takeaways from the webinar:

Passion is contagious

Sharing lessons from his own journey Ravi shares how one should follow their own passion and be driven by a sense of purpose in whatever they do and wherever they go. Ultimately, it is the joy of working, of being associated with an idea, and the power of creating an impact that comes before aspects like money and influence. 

“The convergence of what you love, what you are good at, and what the world needs, that’s where lies happiness and success,” shared Ravi. 

A child like curiosity and an open mind

What is the secret of success? It goes beyond hard work and is followed by undeterred grit. To be able to make new innovations and lead with more success, professionals today and in the future must always have a child like curiosity, and a receptive mind, willing to listen and experiment with new ideas. 

“The capacity for hard work, not giving up attitude and tenaciousness is what takes people ahead in life,” said Ravi. 

Setbacks are natural. In fact Ravi believes that if you don't have failures on your journey it indicates you are not pushing yourself enough. 

Becoming comfortable with extreme uncertainty

The ongoing pandemic is just an example of the VUCA world we have always been talking about. It has only reminded us of how important it is to become comfortable with uncertainty. To build the agility and adaptability, to be able to move in tune with time. 

The largely stable world we have had for 30 to 40 years is over. Hence, Ravi suggests to have a different mindset and approach to survive and thrive. 

“Forget about the job,” exclaimed Ravi. It’s an old construct being broken down by black swan events like the pandemic. “See your life as a series of projects.”

The power of impact

About two years ago, UNICEF started a mission called Generation unlimited. Today’s young generation (18 to 24 years old) is living in a world where everything is going through tremendous change. Single biggest issue across the world is lack of leadership. We have a variety of problems, said Ravi, however, the foundational challenge holding us back from solving even other challenges is the lack of leadership. 

“The problem is we look to people for formal authority and power to provide leadership,” said Ravi. But the leadership must come from young people who are willing to take risks and create a real change in the society. 

The leaders in formal power must encourage and empower these young people with opportunities and ecosystems where they can flourish and create an impact. Ravi along with UNICEF is working towards empowering these young individuals. 

When self-driven, passionate and courageous young leaders will come together to work under the guidance of the ones with more power and experience, the entire society shall become a better version of itself. 

Image Credits: Marico Innovation Foundation