European entrepreneur shares how India shattered his western mindset: '10 life-changing lessons...'

Nik Huno was particularly impressed by instances of unwavering integrity in everyday life.

European entrepreneur Nik Huno moved to India last year, expecting a cultural shift—but what he experienced went far beyond that. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he shared how his time in the country profoundly altered his Western mindset, offering him invaluable life lessons.

"I’m European. Last year, I moved to India. What I experienced shattered my Western mindset. Here are 10 life-changing lessons I learned in India that reshaped how I see the world," he wrote.

One of Huno’s most striking observations was how people in India maximise limited resources. He saw farmers growing crops in challenging conditions and street vendors bargaining with a level of skill comparable to Wall Street traders. This led him to realise that “constraints aren’t limits”—they can, in fact, fuel innovation and resilience.

He was also deeply moved by Indians’ approach to work, describing it as “sacred.” Unlike in the West, where jobs often feel like a burden, he noticed that even small vendors in India take immense pride in their work. “You can turn anything into a calling—if you show up with presence,” he added.

Im European.Last year, I moved to India.What I experienced shattered my Western mindset.Here are 10 life-changing lessons I learned in India that reshaped how I see the world: pic.twitter.com/gcdxm5ffHu
February 5, 2025

Huno also observed a stark contrast in how status is perceived. In India, he found that wisdom often commands more respect than wealth. It was a revelation for him to see barefoot monks being held in higher regard than affluent CEOs, which made him question the Western emphasis on material success.

At first glance, Indian cities seemed chaotic to him, but over time, he recognised a deeper order within the apparent disorder. “Mumbai’s streets look chaotic, yet they move 20 million people daily. I learned that what seems disorganised often has its rhythm and logic,” he remarked.

His time in India also shifted his perception of freedom and fulfilment. He recounted seeing a street vendor selling tea for just a few cents yet seemingly content with his life. This led him to conclude that “freedom isn’t about having more, it’s about needing less.”

India’s sheer diversity also left a lasting impression on Huno. He noted how, despite the country having over 780 languages, a shared purpose unites its people. “I learned that clarity of purpose transcends all barriers—even language,” he reflected.

He was also struck by India’s deep-rooted respect for nature. He observed how rivers such as the Ganges are not merely water sources but hold immense cultural and spiritual significance. “Respect for nature isn’t optional—it’s essential,” he wrote.

Huno was particularly impressed by instances of unwavering integrity in everyday life. He recounted seeing people refuse bribes using fake currency notes inscribed with messages like “I won’t pay.” This, he said, was a stark reminder that “real value isn’t just about money. The greatest wealth isn’t in your wallet—it’s in your integrity.”

Perhaps the most transformative lesson for him was witnessing the strength of India’s community spirit. “I saw strangers become family in moments of need,” he wrote.

Summing up his experience, Huno concluded, “India didn’t just change my perspective—it rewired it. I see the world as bigger, richer, and more connected than ever before. But the biggest shift? It made me rethink how I live and work—and what true freedom truly means.”