How the author learnt resilience, patience and mindfulness from PM Modi. An extract
Amitabh Kant
Few leaders in the world can change the air of the room when they walk into it. It is undeniable that PM Modi is one such person. In the years I have worked with him, I have seen him display equal levels of strategic acumen and empathetic leadership, effortlessly balancing the two in ways that encourage people to think, feel and, most importantly, act.
Firstly, he always approaches challenges with a long-term perspective, considering the broader implications of each decision amongst a host of possible realities. Whether in ministerial presentations or official meetings, I have watched him dissect complex issues with a clarity that allows for innovative solutions. At the same time, his profound empathy shapes the way he engages with people from all walks of life. He listens intently, making everyone feel valued and understood—a quality that builds bridges across turbulent waters.
This duality of intellect and heart inspired me to cultivate a similar balance in my approach to leadership. I have learnt that effective leadership is not just about making decisions, but also about nurturing relationships and creating spaces where others feel empowered to share their thoughts and ideas. PM Modi’s ability to command a room while ensuring every voice is heard is a lesson I carry with me, influencing the way I engage with peers and collaborators alike.
Secondly, the most striking aspect of PM Modi’s leadership is his discipline in listening. He spends an astonishing 95 per cent of his time listening, dedicating nearly the entire hour of meetings to absorbing perspectives before contributing his own thoughts. During my time as his Sherpa, I emulated this firsthand as I spend 55 minutes of the hour-long conference listening to leaders from over twenty nations, international organizations, and guests. This practice goes beyond mere patience; it cultivates a deep understanding of what truly matters to people—their priorities, the sacrifices they are willing to make, and the issues they choose to emphasize or overlook. Only such understanding begets influence. When you genuinely listen, you begin to grasp the nuances of their positions, allowing you to connect on a deeper level and engage more meaningfully. This ability to discern not only enhanced collaboration but also empowered me to inspire actions aligned with shared goals and values. Listening transformed dialogue into a powerful tool for driving change.
Thirdly, PM Modi’s remarkable calmness under pressure stands out. Throughout our numerous interactions, I never once saw him raise his voice or react angrily, regardless of the provocations he faced. This composure has taught me that strength is often found in restraint. He embodies resilience, demonstrating that true leadership involves holding firm in the face of external pressures and adversities without wavering.
As the G20 presidency progressed and the pressure mounted, especially in the final stages, it was crucial for us to believe in our vision for India. He showed me the importance of standing resilient against external pressures, encouraging a culture of perseverance within our team. His steadfastness encouraged me to remain resolute in my convictions, reinforcing that true leadership often involves weathering the storm without capitulating to the demands around you.
Fourthly, PM Modi’s optimistic outlook encouraged a forward-thinking approach, reminding me that maintaining hope was essential to our pursuit of meaningful change. His faith in possibilities encouraged me to adopt a mindset where curiosity and resilience coexisted. Instead of viewing problems as definitive endpoints, I now see them as invitations to reevaluate our strategies and approaches.
Finally, his commitment to physical and mental well-being is evident in his practices of yoga and meditation. These disciplines helped me manage stress during period of high-stakes policy work, allowing me to stay alert and present throughout the day. During intense geopolitical negotiations, where we often found ourselves burning the midnight oil, the strong foundation of health I cultivated through mindfulness practices proved invaluable. These habits of awareness and focus allowed me to remain fully engaged and attentive to the details of each country’s edits and contributions. For the mind and body to absorb and impart new information, they must remain sponge-like: flexible, open, and able to both embrace and let go.
Working alongside PM Modi has been a transformative experience, one that continues to shape my professional outlook and personal growth. As I continue my journey, I strive to embody these invaluable lessons—listening deeply, maintaining composure, embodying resilience, nurturing optimism, and prioritizing well-being—allowing them to guide my engagements and contributions in a complex world.
HOW INDIA SCALED MOUNT G20: THE INSIDE STORY OF THE G20 PRESIDENCY
Amitabh Kant
Rupa Publications, Pg 231, Rs 595