🔷 A Friendship Forged in Learning 🔷

 

Yesterday, I spoke with a friend who just retired after a remarkable 32-year career in Civil Services. He told me, "I wouldn't have been in civil services without you." While I initially deflected, crediting his inherent abilities, his words led me to reflect on the early days of our unexpected friendship.

As a junior executive, I was once informed by my boss that a "troublesome" new person  was joining my team. The complaints were familiar: he wouldn't work, asked too many questions, and frequently took leave. When this young, sharp individual finally arrived, I decided to understand the situation firsthand.

Over lunch, he revealed his aspirations: he was preparing for competitive exams. I then pressed him on his frequent absences. He explained that, coming from a rural area, he struggled with English comprehension. While his core subject knowledge was excellent, new vocabulary and complex language in News or new concepts  often hindered his understanding. Unable to afford specialized coaching, he'd go back to his hometown to learn from his college teachers. His reason for not asking colleagues resonated deeply: "My curiosity was taken as a nuisance."

I recognized his potential immediately. He was intelligent and had a strong grasp of fundamentals. So, I offered my support. "Come to me with any questions," I told him. This simple offer transformed our working relationship. After office hours, we'd regularly sit and discuss various subjects, topics, and issues he wanted to master. He became not just a diligent worker, but also a helpful team member. Our commitment extended to Sundays, where he'd come to my house for intensive revision sessions. This dedicated mentorship lasted about a year before I moved for another assignment. We kept in touch, and the following year, he successfully cleared his exams, beginning his distinguished journey in the Civil Services. Our bond, built on shared learning, remains strong. 

 #LifeLessons #Mentorship #MakingADifference #Leadership #AshwaniSpeak #AshwaniNexus


                                     



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