Four questions to ask when not sure of the direction your life is taking: Sebi chief to IIM-A students

Madhabi Puri Buch, chairperson of SEBI, was the chief guest at the 59th convocation of IIM-Ahmedabad

During moments of enjoyment and fulfilment, it is best to embrace the experience without overthinking, Madhabi Puri Buch, chairperson of  Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) said in her speech to the graduating class of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad on  March 30. However, when encountering dilemmas or internal struggles, she presented four questions that could prove as a guide to one's journey forward. She was the chief guest at the 59th convocation of the premier B-school.

Firstly, Buch urged the listeners to reflect on what drives them at their essence. She told the audience to ask themselves, "What exactly is my mantra. What exactly is my core, what exactly is my mojo?"

Secondly, she prompted individuals to assess the goals they are aiming for, ensuring alignment with their aspirations and desires. "What goal am I taking aim at, am I sure that this is the goal I want to shoot for."

Thirdly, Buch emphasised the importance of ensuring that one's mantra aligns with their chosen goals, and be open to rethink one's mantra in case of any misalignment. "Is my mantra a match for the goal that I am aiming for? If yes, great. If not, maybe I need to rethink my mantra or rethink my goal," she said.

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Lastly, she reminded the audience that goal-setting is a dynamic process that evolves over time. Whether at 25, 40, or 55, one's goals will naturally shift with different life stages and experiences. With a potential working career spanning over four decades, there is ample time to achieve their aspirations if they bring their best efforts to the table, Buch assured the listeners.

In today’s multi-faceted world, Buch acknowledged the infinite possibilities of aligning different mantras with various goals. She encouraged individuals to remain adaptable in their approach, selecting the right "arrow" from their quiver of options to suit each unique circumstance.

Buch acknowledged that in today's multi-faceted world, there are infinite combinations of mantras that can help one achieve their goal. She encouraged individuals to remain adaptable in their approach, selecting the right arrow from their quiver of options to suit each unique circumstance.

She said that each one among those graduating will eventually find their own mantra, their personal superpower and mojo, which would be like a default setting. "And until you find that special mantra, it is as though you have a quiver full of arrows. Some sharp, some not so sharp. And as you take aim at the goals that you choose, you may find that your sharp arrows work perfectly well or that you need to sharpen some of your arrows," Buch said. Each arrow bears one's unique stamp, one's time, energy, passion, intellect, knowledge, emotional intelligence, and essence, she added.