As startup entrepreneurs, we attend events and parties. We network with the rich and the famous. We’re young and have just started out, yet we dress to impress. It is an investment, we ought to dress for the job we want.
There have been times when I’ve been fortunate enough to borrow my Dad’s car and maintain a crisp look thanks to no public transport. Yet, there have been times when my shoes were muddy, my sleeves were wrinkled. Though my smile was happy and confident, the gaze of the folks I met lingered on the exhibited shabbiness.
“How do a few wrinkles and muddy shoes matter?” is one side of the argument, while “caring enough to be clean, prim and proper..” is the other side. The latter needs money. ‘Investment’ again?
Muddy Shoes Symbolism
It is of perfect poetry material- young, brave individual with feet on the ground, completely hands-on as he builds his own enterprise. What can represent this admirable trait more than artsy dirty shoes and rolled up sleeves?
It is difficult to travel by public transport anywhere in India without being sweaty and without ruining your shoes a bit. There is mud on the uneven streets, dust in the cabs, the paths are crowded and the humidity manages at least a trickle of sweat from your armpits. Did I mention a sweaty forehead?
While the situation is inspiring on paper, turning up shabby for an important meeting or an event is considered unprofessional and irresponsible.
Acceptance & Ambition
It is natural to feel tad embarrassed at the prospect of wearing shoes that are not clean & expensive enough, clothes that are not crisp & rich enough and not owning wheels. However, the comparison happens in our mind when we imagine ourselves to have “reached there” already. But have we?
A helpful thought process would be to understand and accept where we currently stand. The next step might be to look around and see the path we’re on. Question the embarrassment, question the doubt and question the lack of self esteem. Do you see the path ahead? Isn’t it towards prosperity? Aren’t the people we’re meeting way ahead than us at present?
A King Nonetheless
A King should dress like one. Smart investments are required. And about feeling low about the things we discussed- if you’re an entrepreneur doing the right things, the good life is on its way. It cannot come too soon, but ensure you’re on your way. You’re building an empire, it takes time for the trade to boost. Once it does, it makes you rich. You’re a King after all. Be proud and be honest.
🙂