Author and entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo shared three key lessons on achieving self-reliance at the Outlook Money 40After40 Retirement Expo in Mumbai. He said knowing that one has enough and cultivating personal growth through significant activities are important aspects of self-reliance.
The initial lesson, he said, is to interact with individuals who are different from them. Warikoo told the audience that people tend to attract individuals who share similar traits. However, real self-discovery happens when one interacts with people who have varying experiences and viewpoints. He challenged the audience to shatter their social cliques and learn from diverse people.
The second lesson is to step out of one’s comfort zone. While he acknowledged that material comfort is fine, he cautioned against intellectual comfort since it can stunt mental development. Warikoo explained that as individuals become experienced, they tend to avoid mentally challenging themselves, which slows down their personal development. He challenged people to constantly pursue new experiences and intellectual challenges.
The third lesson, he said, is to ask questions more frequently and adopt lifelong learning. Gen Z is often criticized for being impatient and confused, he noted. However, older generations must consider their viewpoint rather than dismiss them. He urged everyone to maintain their curiosity, never stop learning, and adopt a student mentality by taking up new abilities or topics.
These three lessons of embracing diversity, stepping out of one’s comfort zones, and fostering curiosity are key to improving self-reliance, as they come from continuous learning and personal growth.
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