The Introvert Guide

There’s something I’ve observed over the years, especially when you work with people, build teams, and try to do the right thing. There’s a fine line between being respectful and becoming invisible. A few months ago, I was working closely with two colleagues - Neeraj and Rhea. Both are thoughtful, kind people, the type who genuinely want to create a healthy work environment. But their styles couldn’t be more different. Neeraj is the quiet type. He listens more than he speaks, avoids confrontation, and gives people their space, maybe a little too much. If someone spoke over him, he’d let it slide. If a decision didn’t sit well with him, he’d stay silent. His heart’s in the right place, he just doesn’t want to impose. Rhea, on the other hand, is equally compassionate, but she doesn’t hold back. She speaks up when needed, even if it’s uncomfortable. She’s direct, but never disrespectful. She knows how to say, “Mujhe lagta hai yeh theek nahi hai,” without sounding aggressive. And because o...

It doesn’t take much to be deeply human. Let me share something personal with you. A while ago, I was at an event for children—my son Dhruva is one of them. As I stood there, watching the amazing teachers and caregivers who work so patiently and passionately every day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. And I decided to speak. I said, “You know, we often talk about the natural order of things—how everything in nature finds its rhythm and harmony when left undisturbed.” Then I paused and added, “But Dhruva doesn’t learn like other children. He doesn’t express himself in ways people expect. He doesn’t always connect with the world the same way. So where does he fit into that ‘natural order’?” There was silence in the room. And in that silence, I shared what I’ve come to believe with all my heart.  “When a child like Dhruva is born—someone with autism or a special need—the world is given a rare opportunity. It’s a chance for the rest of us to show what being truly human looks like....