Some days in the life of an entrepreneur feel like a relentless storm. That’s exactly how I felt one evening, coming home from office, only to be greeted by the bright eyes and curious mind of my 10-year-old son, Vivaan. His passion for history and uncanny ability to read situations always amazed me. On one such day, I discovered the profound wisdom that lies in the unique perspective of a child.
I had stepped into the house, visibly exhausted, having had one of those days at work which leaves you drained. Vivaan greeted me with enthusiasm but seeing my state, he suggested we have dinner first. My kid definitely knows that a properly fed father is the key to fun times! My frustration was apparently visible to him though; his concern and curiosity were evident when he asked me whether my day was very hectic.
I debated whether to share my troubles with him. How would I explain to a ten-year-old what it is like to run a company? I tried my best to explain to him, drawing a comparison to my days as a coder. Running a company is a stark contrast to my days of coding. Back then, the problems were structured, had clear solutions and the outcomes were predictable. But now, as I navigate the complexities of leading a company, I am faced with a tapestry of human interactions. It is a multifaceted, unpredictable environment, far removed from the binary world of technology I was once immersed in.
Vivaan was absorbing my words intently. He asked me, “So, what is your role in this big company Papa? Are you like the captain of a ship?” I thought about it. Indeed, in a way, yes, I am like the captain of a ship. I am the founder and CEO. It is like being the person at the helm, trying to steer the ship to success.
Vivaan’s next question stumped me, “But isn’t a ship’s journey about everyone on it, not just the person steering it? It’s like those great leaders in history, right? A leader isn’t just about leading; it’s about being part of a team.” His insight made me pause and reflect.
But isn’t a ship’s journey about everyone on it, not just the person steering it?
While I was trying to steer the ship, I had forgotten that it is about the entire crew. Every member of the team plays a vital role in ensuring the ship crosses troubled waters and sails peacefully into the sunset.
As I was thinking about this, Vivaan must have seen the worry and stress reflect in my expression and my little history buff shook me out of my distraction, “Didn’t Marcus Aurelius say something about focusing on what you can control, instead of worrying? Maybe you shouldn’t worry so much about being important. Just do your best, Papa. The ship will sail fine.”
Maybe you shouldn’t worry so much about being important. Just do your best, Papa. The ship will sail fine.
His words brought a smile to my face. I was spending time taking the load of the world on my shoulders, trying to control the uncontrollable. All I had to do was figure out a plan of action and trust my team, my crew, to work alongside me. And as Vivaan says, if the worries become too much, I can always play a game with him to focus on the present!
Embracing Vivaan’s Wisdom
Dinner with Vivaan turned into more than just a meal; it became a session of unexpected insights, reminding me of:
- The Stoic Approach: Focusing on my actions and letting go of unnecessary worries.
- Mindfulness Through Play: The importance of being present, which can be achieved even through something as simple as playing a game.
- Value of Teamwork: Recognizing that every member of our team contributes to our journey.
- Finding Balance: The need to find joy and relaxation amidst the rigors of leadership.
🌟 A Father’s Reflection
That night, as I watched Vivaan excitedly set up a game, I realized that he was more than a son and a dinner companion, he was a teacher. The greatest lessons often come from the simplest sources – our children. Their perspectives, unclouded by the complexities of adulthood, remind us of the essential truths we often forget. Let’s cherish these moments of clarity and carry their lessons into our daily lives, both as leaders and as parents.
To all the entrepreneurs, parents, and seekers of balance out there: have you discovered profound wisdom in simple family moments? How do you maintain the equilibrium between the demands of work and the joys of life? Share your stories and insights below.
Let’s engage in this journey of learning and growing, often guided by the unassuming wisdom of the children in our lives.