Being an entrepreneur in a middle class family | Aditi Khattar | TEDxAIIMSRaipur

Summary

In this inspiring talk, Aditi shares her journey from a conventional middle-class upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Despite facing societal pressures and familial expectations, she followed her passion for media and communication. After navigating challenges such as postpartum depression and career stagnation, Aditi embraced self-discovery through hobbies, ultimately launching a brand that reflects her creativity. Her story emphasizes the importance of finding one’s passion, persistence, self-belief, unlearning limitations, and dreaming big, motivating others to forge their own paths towards fulfillment.

Takeaways

• 🌱 Aditi shares her journey from an orthodox middle-class background to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the surprises life can bring.
• 🎓 Despite academic success, Aditi pursued her passion for journalism over a traditional career path in science, challenging societal expectations.
• 💪 The importance of persistence is emphasized as a vital trait for success, allowing individuals to push through challenges and doubts.
• 🌟 Finding one's passion is crucial; it acts as a motivating force that makes work fulfilling and enjoyable.
• 🧠 Self-belief is fundamental; one must believe in themselves before others can believe in them, helping to overcome doubts.
• 🔄 Aditi discusses the need for unlearning societal and self-imposed limitations that hinder personal growth and self-identity.
• 🚀 Dreaming big can boost confidence and motivation, pushing individuals closer to their aspirations and creating a positive environment.
• 📝 Aditi's entrepreneurial journey began with documenting her experiences on Instagram, demonstrating the power of sharing one's story.
• 🤝 Support from family and employers is vital, highlighting the importance of having a network that encourages personal growth.
• 💖 Aditi’s experience with postpartum depression taught her the significance of prioritizing mental health while navigating motherhood and career.

Q & A

What motivated Aditi to pursue a career outside of her family's expectations?

Aditi felt a strong desire to follow her own passions, which differed from her family's traditional expectations. Despite being pressured to study hard and follow a conventional career path, she aimed to pursue journalism and media, influenced by her idol, Barkha Dutt.

How did Aditi's education path deviate from her family's expectations?

Aditi initially excelled in science but chose to pursue commerce instead to follow her interest in journalism. This decision was met with significant resistance from her family, who re-enrolled her in science.

What was Aditi's experience in her corporate job after graduating?

Initially, Aditi faced skepticism from others for shifting from a science background to a media role. However, she eventually succeeded in her corporate job, receiving promotions and a decent salary, yet she felt unfulfilled.

What challenges did Aditi face after becoming a mother?

Aditi struggled with postpartum depression, feeling stagnant and unmotivated in her career while managing the demands of motherhood. This period was characterized by a sense of monotony and professional stagnation.

How did Aditi begin her journey towards entrepreneurship?

While seeking happiness and fulfillment after resigning from her job, Aditi started documenting her experiences and hobbies on Instagram, which led to her friends approaching her for help with home gardening. This sparked her passion and ultimately led to the creation of her own brand.

What are the key lessons Aditi learned throughout her journey?

Aditi emphasized five key lessons: finding your passion, persistence, self-belief, unlearning limiting beliefs, and dreaming big. Each of these elements contributed to her personal and professional growth.

Why is persistence important according to Aditi?

Persistence is crucial as it helps individuals continue working towards their goals despite challenges and setbacks. Aditi quotes Bill Bradley, stating that while ambition is important, persistence is the vehicle that leads to success.

What does Aditi mean by 'unlearning'?

Unlearning refers to the process of discarding societal and self-imposed limitations and beliefs that hinder personal growth. Aditi describes it as a liberating experience that allows one to embrace new, extraordinary ideas.

What is the significance of dreaming big in Aditi's narrative?

Dreaming big is presented as a motivational tool that boosts confidence and positivity. Aditi believes that ambitious dreams push individuals to take steps toward achieving them, even in the face of difficulties.

How does Aditi describe her current state in relation to her journey?

Aditi describes herself as a successful entrepreneur who is constantly learning and growing. She acknowledges the challenges faced along the way but expresses pride in her achievements and a commitment to continue evolving.