5 takeaways for entrepreneurs shared by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently spoke to Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha. The People Podcastoffering a rare insight into his personal and professional journey. From managing risks and failures to managing anxiety and building meaningful connections, PM Modi shared invaluable lessons that resonate across all walks of life and highlight the key characteristics needed for success.

Here are five things PM Modi said that can inspire and guide anyone pursuing their entrepreneurship dreams.

Lead with a mission, not an ambition

Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of having a mission-driven approach rather than ambition-driven. He explained that true success comes from focusing on a larger goal rather than personal gains.

“In politics, people should have a mission, not an ambition. If you come with a mission, then you will have a place somewhere. The mission must be above the ambition, and then you will build capacity,” he shared.

For entrepreneurs, this translates into a clear and focused objective. Whether it's solving a specific problem, improving lives, or creating something meaningful, staying goal-oriented builds trust, loyalty, and long-term success. Ambition may bring short-term wins, but a mission ensures you create lasting value.

Learn from challenges and failures

Prime Minister Modi described his life as a journey marked by difficulties, which he called his greatest teachers.

“Circumstances shaped my life, and it was perhaps my greatest university. Musibat University taught me everything. And perhaps I learned to love the problems that taught me the most “, he explained.

Failure is part of every entrepreneur’s journey. Instead of fearing it, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Challenges teach resilience and provide insights that success cannot. Many successful startups today are the result of perseverance through difficult times.

Take calculated risks

Prime Minister Modi shared an anecdote from his youth, where he took a rash decision while driving a vehicle downhill to save fuel by switching off the engine. The vehicle spun out of control, teaching him the importance of calculated risks.

“I realized that some risks are not worth taking, but calculated risks are essential. If you fear risk, you limit your growth. In general, people fail in life because they fail. 'get used to their comfort zone. Even a big industrialist doesn't do that. “If you don't take risks and get out of your comfort zone, they won't survive in the long term. The more risks you take, the more you grow,” he emphasized.

In companies, risk-taking is central, but it must be calculated. Whether launching a new product, entering a competitive market, or changing strategy, assess the potential impact before taking the plunge. Bold decisions, when planned well, can lead to transformative growth.

Respect those who helped you succeed

PM Modi spoke about how he honored the people who shaped his life after becoming chief minister. He invited his nonagenarian teachers to a public event to express his gratitude. “Whatever I am, they also have some contribution to make to me,” he shared.

Success is rarely a solo journey. Recognize and celebrate the contributions of mentors, team members, and supporters who have helped you along your journey. Acts of gratitude not only strengthen relationships, but also build goodwill and inspire others to value the people who contributed to their success.

Managing Anxiety by Taking Action

Prime Minister Modi has spoken openly about anxiety and how he deals with it. “It's not like God closed certain doors to me. He would have given me what he gives to everyone. But everyone has their own ability and their own style to deal with these things,” he said. -he emphasized.

While sharing an example from the 2002 Gujarat Godhra incident, he said, “I was agitated. I wanted to go to Godhra immediately to assess the situation. There was no helicopter available, so I insisted on taking a single engine ONGC helicopter, even when they refused to allow it for VIPs, I took responsibility for the risks and did the journey. Being present on the pitch helped me deal with anxiety and focus on what needed to be done,” he explained.

Entrepreneurs are often faced with high pressure situations. Building on Prime Minister Modi's conversation, the key takeaway for entrepreneurs is to focus on the bigger picture, the purpose of their business and the long-term vision they aim to achieve. Instead of getting overwhelmed by short-term problems or setbacks, they should maintain perspective, which helps reduce unnecessary worry, improve decision-making, and maintain clarity even during difficult times. Ultimately, staying grounded in your goal ensures that temporary obstacles don't derail your focus or mental well-being.