I come from a very poor family. Growing up, I saw nothing but poverty, my parents quarrelled all the time. However, I always dreamed of making it big in life. When I was 16, I left home in search of a job. I finally got a job in a tea stall in Nasik.
The work was menial and at times, people would be very abusive. There were times when I wondered if this is all my life would be. I even thought of ending my life when things got too much to bear.
However, I decided that I would not let these challenges defeat me. I was constantly on the lookout for newer and better opportunities.
If one thing kept me going during the worst days of my life it was the good counsel of my friends. I consider myself lucky to have met people who always wished the best for me. One such person suggested that I become an insurance agent. This was the turning point in my life. Today, I run a successful mutual fund distribution business, with an AUM of Rs. 16 crore and a client base of 300. My SIP books stand at Rs.21 lakh per month.
Life has taught me two lessons. First is to maintain a good rapport with all the people who you meet. I never speak a sharp word with anyone no matter how annoying they are. I often apologise even when I am not wrong. Once they realise their mistakes, they will respect you even more.
Another lesson is continuous learning. It is the only key to success. Not only do I constantly try to evolve myself, I actively encourage all my contacts to develop their knowledge.
