“So, you leave that crown in the garage.” – Indra Nooyi

Staying Grounded

As I reflected on what to write for this issue—while also feeling the pressure of submission deadlines—this powerful statement from Indra Nooyi came to mind. The former PepsiCo Chairman credits it to her mother, and it carries a lesson that resonates deeply.

In her autobiography My Life in Full: Work, Family, and Our Future, Nooyi shares her journey from Chennai to leading the world’s fifth-largest corporation. Reading stories like hers, I’ve often reflected on my own path—not to diminish my efforts, but to appreciate the opportunities that have shaped me.

One moment in Nooyi’s book struck me. The night she was promoted to President of PepsiCo, she drove home, elated, eager to share the news with her mother. But before she could revel in her success, her mother sent her to buy milk for the family. Frustrated, Nooyi later asked, “I just became the President of PepsiCo, and you couldn’t take a moment to listen?“

Her mother’s response was grounding:
“Listen, you may be the President of PepsiCo, but when you step into this house, you are a mother, a wife, a daughter. No one can take your place. So, you leave that crown in the garage.”

Powerful words. A reminder to stay grounded, to balance ambition with humility, and to never lose sight of the roles that truly define us.

As I reflect on my own life, I wonder—have I expressed enough gratitude for the lessons my mother, my wife, my children, my siblings, and friends have imparted?

The Gift of Listening

We often hear, but do we truly listen? In the rush of daily life, wisdom is shared in quiet moments—through a parent’s advice, a mentor’s guidance, or a simple conversation. Yet, how often do we pause to absorb it?

Listening intently is more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding their depth and the experience behind them. True wisdom doesn’t always come in grand speeches; sometimes, it’s in a single sentence that lingers long after it’s spoken.

Take Nooyi’s mother’s words: “Leave your crown in the garage.” A simple phrase, yet it carries a lifetime of perspective on humility and balance. Those who listen deeply to such lessons find themselves anchored in values that endure far beyond titles or achievements.

When we truly listen, we don’t just gain knowledge—we gain insight. We connect. We grow. And sometimes, the most powerful wisdom comes when we are quiet enough to hear it.

Humility is a Practice

True wisdom often comes wrapped in the simplest words, spoken by those who know us best.

Nooyi’s mother’s response was both pragmatic and profoundly authentic:
“You may be the President of PepsiCo, but at home, you are a mother, a wife, a daughter. No one can take your place. So, you leave that crown in the garage.”

That simple statement carries a deep truth—humility is not about diminishing our achievements but about recognizing that no title makes us more important than the roles we play in the lives of those who love us.

Humility is not just an attitude; it is a practice. It is in pausing to hear the wisdom of those who have shaped us. It is in knowing that no matter how high we rise, there is always value in staying grounded. The world may celebrate our success, but it is in the quiet moments—our ability to listen, to serve, and to stay rooted—that we truly lead. As C.S. Lewis said powerfully: 

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It’s thinking of yourself less.”

Yet, I remember my classmate, professional Social Worker and Coach, Dicky once telling me —“People preach best what they need most.” This year, I have taken it upon myself to be more self-aware of my idiosyncrasies, to listen intently, to aspire to think of myself less, and to express gratitude to all those who have been part of my journey.

As I mentioned in the last issue, I’d love to hear your thoughts—what are some of the echoes of gratitude that have impacted you? Share your insights in the comments, and let’s explore them in future issues!

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