Overcoming Adversity: From University Dreams to Banking Success
Personal adversity can be a significant turning point in our lives, leading us down unexpected paths. My story is one such journey where a series of unfortunate events shaped my future in ways I never imagined.
Dreams and Early Preparation
During my final year of graduation, my dream was to become a professor. From the second year, I began gathering all relevant information, meticulously obtaining it in PDF format with the help of the department chief. This early preparation was key; I had three to four years to prepare and aimed to pass the exam on my first try. With such thorough planning, I was optimistic and confident. However, these dreams were shattered when my dearest friend, Jyoti Maan, died in a tragic accident. Six months later, my own mother passed away, leaving me in a deep state of depression. My grief and despair made it difficult to focus on anything, including my career aspirations.
A New Chapter Begins
One day, while scrolling through YouTube, I discovered a motivational story video that sparked a new thought: perhaps there was another path I could take. I decided to explore banking examination options as a second alternative. Despite the challenges, I took the first step and studied diligently. Graduating from schooling to university, I had always studied in Hindi, which made English studies particularly difficult. However, I was determined. I read novels, took classes, and slowly began to gain an advantage.
Challenges and Triumphs
In the bank examination preliminary rounds, I faced immense difficulties. After several attempts, I was finally selected as an RRB IBPS SBI Junior Associate. This change in my life was nothing short of miraculous. It marked a turning point, leading me to reflect on the role of corruption in my previous line of work and a decision to distance myself from government-related businesses.
Reflecting on Bribery and Corruption
As an entrepreneur for 15 years, I faced numerous challenges. Despite my expertise, I often had to deal with purchase officer clerks issuing orders months after they were due and constant delays in receiving payment cheques. In some cases, I felt the only way to expedite the process was to compromise and offer bribes. Similarly, with 12 cases pending at the sales tax office, I hired a CA to settle the issue after the same method. Never did I give bribes out of favor or for preferential treatment, but these were my experiences. I realized that such corruption could pose significant obstacles to progress. Thankfully, I eventually decided not to engage in business with government agencies, as I found this approach morally and ethically unacceptable.
Conclusion
My journey from my professorial dreams to my current career is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Adversity may steer us in unexpected directions, but it also opens up new possibilities. The lessons learned from overcoming these challenges not only shaped my professional path but also instilled a strong stance against corruption in my personal and professional life.