While having lunch among the ‘brightest of the country’ at the ‘Jaiswal Mess’ during one Sunday afternoon, MPC felt like fish out of the pond. Having spent over a decade in the military, #transitioning through the world of management education seem to be an intimidating challenge for MPC. It has been over a month at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad for MPC. Although not all the subjects have been introduced in the course (probably due for upcoming terms), but MPC was already struggling with a persistent sense of ‘imposter syndrome’.
Surrounded by course mates from all services and with #diverse backgrounds and impressive achievements, he couldn't totally deny the feeling that he didn't belong. Doubts crept into his mind - Was he capable enough? Did he have what it takes to excel in this new environment?
One day, during a particularly challenging case method discussion, MPC found himself at a loss for words. His classmates, on the other hand, were coming up with some very good solutions, that too with confidence. MPC felt of him as inadequate compared to his classmates’ expertise in #management concepts and lingos. This was the day when he decided that it was high time that he confronts his imposter syndrome.
MPC approached one of the professors and opened about his struggles. The professor, although didn’t know MPC well, but going by the reputation of a #veteran, encouraged him to embrace his unique perspective and experiences he had in the military. He said, "Take this as an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace this challenge. You all have got the skills to excel in the #corporate world. Earlier you realize this, easier it will become for you to succeed."
With the newfound perspective, MPC began to approach challenges with the same #strategic mindset and #resourcefulness he honed being in the military. MPC had now found innovative solutions to complex problems and was now steadily coping up with his course mates.
On the day of Valedictory Ceremony, MPC was standing outside KLMDC complex, thinking about the early days. The fish which was ‘feeling out of pond’ had now easily made its way into the ‘ocean’.
This was a testament to his #resilience and #determination. A mix of feelings swirled: pride, a touch of sadness, but mostly an eager grin. This wasn't over, it was a new start, his story to write and #adaptability, his secret weapon.
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