Prior to my advisory journey, I used to run an automobile business. In 1987, I came to know that I had a cancer. The cancer had affected my knee restricting movement of my lower body.
I could not go back to my automobile business as it involved strenuous physical work. One of my friends advised me to become an investment consultant. So, in 1992, I started distribution of company fixed deposits and later other financial products such as insurance and mutual funds. I started my office in my garage. Since my office is in a prime location, I started getting queries from walk in customers. Many of them became my clients. Later, my client base started growing through word of mouth.
Dealing with cancer and facing thoughts of death is a life-changing event for most people. For me, it was a time to minimize regrets and make new priorities.
I decided to accept this phase and start afresh. Life has indeed taught to me never give up. You should not let your disease decide what you do. Professionally, I have learnt that advisors should give priority to the needs of their clients. We should not recommend funds offering attractive commissions.
