SUCCESS = Being involved with passion

There are several factors that influence the degree of success that an individual, an institution or a society can achieve. In my previous blogs, I have shared some of these sutras (principles) responsible for success.  However, there is one simple sutra that is often forgotten or ignored as we move ahead on our path of success, and that is ‘being involved with passion’.  This is one of the most common characteristics that I have observed in all successful persons that I have come across.

I have known Vinod Mathur, vibrant dean of the Wildlife Institute of India based in Dehradun, for more than a decade. Over these years, I have had the fortune of working very closely with Vinod, and consequently, I understand his style of functioning. In addition to the intelligence and wisdom that he applies in resolving a myriad of issues at his institution, Vinod is extremely involved in every task that he undertakes. It is his ability to be involved with passion that ensures that the task is completed successfully. But the unique aspect of Vinod’s personality is his ability to be involved in multiple activities at the same time. All that he requires is his blackberry. I haven’t seen a administrator turned scientists using a blackberry the way Vinod uses it. From the moment he wakes up till he retires, he is constantly on his computing system, and if travelling   then on his blackberry. Every email is answered within a minute, not cryptically but in great detail. It is this detailed response that evokes an equally detailed response from the recipient. This helps him to be on top of every issue that he needs to tackle.

Just a week ago, I was attending a bilateral workshop at his place. While he was contributing significantly to the discussions at the workshop, he was working with his colleagues and collaborators across the globe on developing a new project proposal. As if this was not enough, he was also coordinating gifts for visiting delegates, their travel plans and accommodation all at the same time. On a lighter note, I said to his line manager, ‘what if Vinod’s blackberry was taken away?’. The line manager promptly responded that ‘this would be disastrous not for Vinod but for me as well!’. He then explained that Vinod’s multitasking ability does indeed make his job easier. No wonder Vinod is a most sought after colleague, team member and collaborator.

How can a person be so involved in so many events and issues at the same time with such equal and undiluted passion?  ‘Just do your share of the contributions, and do not think of what benefits you will be able to reap’, is Vinod’s explanation. He further explains, ‘If you devote yourself to something, you will be blessed with benefits’. I was amazed by the simplicity and humility of his answer. No wonder he is successful in every sphere of his life. Thanks Vinod for revealing yet another sutra of success, SUCCESS = being involved with passion!