India – Brian AiChang's Blog

New World, New Opportunities

It’s been 2 months since we repatriated back to Colorado. It’s been quite the whirlwind – more than I expected. I mean, it’s coming back home – how hard could it be? Let me count the ways:

Buying cars (walking was not an option)
Enrolling kids in school – more like shopping for all of the school supplies
Refurbishing our place to make it “ours” again
Figuring out how to watch sports after “cutting the cord”
Oh, and finding a job once everybody was settled

But, the hardest part of settling back in Colorado was also the most unlikely reason: the peaceful serenity of suburban life. After living in Mumbai with a population of 20 million where people lived on top of each other, it took a bit of an adjustment to live in a Denver suburb city of 65,000 where at night, you can hear the silence. More than anything else, you realize there are very few people that you can relate and share your experience. You miss, more than anything else, the people.

As if India followed me to Colorado, an opportunity presented itself where I was invited to attend the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay’s annual reunion in New York City. Though I am well-travelled, I’ve never been to the Big Apple. The IITians (especially Vinay Karle) welcomed me with open arms, and I felt like part of the family I left behind. I may be the only non-Indian alumni, but I was treated as family – just like I would be in India.

Things are different, not perfect, but different. I do not take for granted blue skies, clean air, or even red lights. As anyone who has lived or visited India, you will appreciate American traffic congestion… Our Mumbai adventures have officially ended but a new one begins which now includes a much larger extended family. You don’t have to move to India to change. Rather, you just have to change to open your world to new possibilities.

IIT Bombay Director Khakhar and myself

Reflections of India

It’s now August 2017. I took a few months break as my family prepared and transitioned back to Colorado after 2 ½ years living in Mumbai. It’s been a whirlwind as we said goodbye (or in Hindi “phir milenge”) to our friends. It was especially tough to say goodbye to our drivers and maid (Sarfaraz, Rafik, and Kunda) who became part of our family. As I look back, it has been an amazing journey. We were able to visit 8 countries in the region and traveled all across India with the exception of Varanasi – we just ran out of time…

I am extremely proud to graduate with my joint Executive MBA from Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and Washington University in St. Louis and had one of my best professional experiences volunteering as the board president at the American School of Bombay. However, I found the best part of India to be the richness of the people: warm, hospitable, passionate, and sometimes, a bit crazy. When I first started my blog, I created a Top 10 “Only in India” list. I want to recap that list and then share my 2 life lessons that India taught me.

Number 10 – Traffic is very congested in India and the use of the car horn is applied liberally. Actually, I believe honking is a form of echo location. Whether you are 5 ft or 50 ft away, honking is mandatory.

Number 9 – Does “yes” mean “no”? No one ever says “no”. How can I tell if “yes” means “yes”?

Number 8 – Seeing the locals’ reaction when saying “Mujhe ullu mat banao” when the situation calls for it. My Hindi teacher said to use this sparingly. I found it amusing to see the reaction I get when a foreigner says it. It added a new dimension to the term.

Number 7 – Scratching my head when my neighbor complained that the shoe rack outside of my flat caused the hallway to be dirty…I’m pretty sure my shoes are not the root cause…

Number 6 – A small city means less than 1,000,000 people.

Number 5 – A wedding attended by 400 people is considered “very small”.

Number 4 – I thought my family’s “island time” in Hawaii was relaxed…India is even more relaxed – always add at least 2 hours (or 2 days or 2 weeks) to a start/delivery time…

Number 3 – There are bad monkeys here. Lock your possessions (especially food), or they will disappear.

Number 2 – You think you are “ballin” (living a good life) until you realize you didn’t have an elephant at your wedding.

Number 1 – Everybody is a cricket coach! The US cannot compare to the passion of the fans here. In fact, when India plays Pakistan in any match, I find it is the best time to drive across the city – fastest commute ever.

Now that I’ve been back in Colorado for 3 weeks, I’ve had time to reflect a little more. I feel a sense of calm. I no longer “rush to the next thing” or complain when something minor happens (just listen to people complain in a Starbuck’s line). Work hard, play hard, and appreciate what’s around you – especially the family.

I’ve been able to look at new opportunities with a different perspective and worldly view on life based on two life lessons:

“Anything is Possible” – India is the epitome that anything can and will happen. We just do not know it yet. There is an aura that no matter what the situation is or how the odds are against you, there is always a chance/opportunity which no one gives up hope. The work ethic and desire to “push through” and overcome challenges is a testament to Indian resiliency.
“If you can live here, you can live anywhere” – While this is a cliché, this is very true. There is no predictability or a homogenous society where you can set expectations. Everything and I mean everything is different from region, state, city, and neighborhood. If you can adapt to change here, you can adapt to any situation.

We miss the friendships, my maid’s poha, and the vibe of the country. But, it is also good to be back home. I have documented my journey on a personal blog. If you are so inclined, please take a look at my other posts on www.brianaichang.com. If you have any questions, please let me know. I look forward to connecting with you.

Today was a Good Day

As our journey in India comes to a close, I had a moment to reflect of all places…in the gym. Today was “chest day”, and I sat on the bench thinking “it’s way too early in the morning to do this”. I did my warm-up set which felt surprisingly good. I added more weight which didn’t seem that heavy after all. Then, I just went for it. I stacked the bar with 300 lbs (136 kg for you metric fans) and did something I haven’t done in years. I bench pressed it. I was extremely happy that I declared victory and went home.

This led me to reflect our decision to move to India. My wife and I previously discussed how we would love to move overseas and give our children the same opportunity that we both had growing up. That opportunity eventually presented itself, and we literally had to make the decision on the spot – Go or No Go. We chose Go.

The opportunity and decision felt good both professionally and personally – there was no downside. I’ve talked to friends in and out of the US. Our US friends were happy for us but thought we were a bit crazy. Our Indian friends couldn’t believe we made a decision unilaterally vs consulting with the extended family. In India, family decisions are not made that quickly nor by individuals. It’s a collective effort to ensure the best for all. There are pros and cons to everything, but my main point is this – when an opportunity or achievement presents itself, acknowledge, celebrate, and act on it. Do not overthink this positive force and turn it into a gut-wrenching and negative experience. Use it to better and challenge yourself. Otherwise, you never know what you may have lost.

I am grateful we jumped on the Indian journey. It’s been a roller coaster with more highs than lows but one that we will forever cherish and put a smile on our faces. And if I can quote the rapper Ice Cube, “Today was a good day”.

Jugaad

Jugaad? What is it and why am I writing about it? Jugaad is an Indian term which has many references in Hindi.

An “innovative fix” to a solution – Here this raging water was a mere dribble a few days ago in the Himalayas. A sudden rain storm turned this shallow creek into this flood. The “bridge” was made to get across as it was the only way to get out. The guides had no fear and ensured we made it across safely.

Or a creative solution that is not necessarily “proper” with limited resources

This road is under construction with a sewer grate exposed. Since there is no barrier, two large sticks and a traffic cop marks the hazard.

Or it’s a management term signifying frugalness as in the case of Tata Motors developing the Nano, a $1500 car

So why am I writing about jugaad and how does this relate to anything? As I was sitting my car and saw the two sticks and traffic cop (second picture), it struck me that we go through life trying to be perfect. There’s nothing wrong with that. We should strive to be perfect where it matters: being a good person and teaching our children right from wrong. However, don’t let life force you to be perfect, or you’ll die frustrated. Have some “jugaad” in your life – be creative and unique to design solutions for yourself, not what others expect.

If You Think Life Can’t Get Any Crazier…

India celebrates their Republic Day on January 26. Akin to the US Fourth of July, India honors this date when India became a democratic country, free of the British colonial rule. As you can imagine, this joyous occasion is celebrated by all with fireworks, parades, patriotism, and pride. You expect everything and anything to happen…almost.

I was on my way to play volleyball at the American School of Bombay when I literally had to pull out my phone to capture this moment. I’ve seen families of 4 on a motorbike and goats in an autorickshaw but never a dog riding on a motorbike like this. How did I react? Shock at first but then quickly re-composed myself as there is a famous phrase uttered here – “This is India”. This shouldn’t have surprised me. It didn’t for the two pedestrians who are walking across the street. But, like life, it’s how you react that counts.

I’ve been slow to write in this month’s blog. Life has a funny way to ensure that all the craziness occurs in a short time span. Within January:

My wife had to travel back to the US for a three week business trip
My father-in-law had surgery in India
I had to conduct a board meeting at the school
Ensure the well-being of my two children
Prepare our transition back to Colorado in July as we finalized plans

Like the reaction to the dog on the motorbike, I took a deep breath and focused on what I can control in my realm of influence – setting up the surgeon’s appointment, concentrate the board’s agenda and subsequent discussions on the fundamentals of the school, and called Papa John’s pizza (for many dinners). For the long term transition activities, there is time to adequately address those issues like enrolling the kids back into school, preparing our house, and finding a job – perhaps those reading this blog can help me with that J

I realized I can’t control life’s “chaos”, but I can control my actions. In the end, Grandpa had a successful cancer-free surgery, my school board meeting aligned and converged the trustees into an unifying decision, and my children were extremely happy eating lots of pizza – “Father of the Year”! (sorry, Mom).

When life brings it on in full force, I urge you to stop and assess:

What you can control
What really matters
What you really need to do

You will quickly realize there are only a few “must do” actions. The rest are just “nice to do”. As they say, “Keep it simple” but also “Keep it sane”.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Last year, we hiked in the Himalayas which experience unusual rains. Turning back, we made camp across from the main road. The small creek became a raging river. But, we persevered and crossed with a makeshift bridge (underwater) at the last moment.

As 2016 draws to a close, we all are looking forward to downtime and “refilling our cup” to spend time with friends and family, finish long overdue projects, and frankly, to just relax. We spend our entire year juggling professional and personal commitments and wait until the end of the year to do the things we wanted to do throughout the entire year. However, instead of relaxing, we cram everything we can during the precious off-time. At the end of the break, we need a break!

My family made a recent decision to move back home to Colorado in the summer of 2017. It was a bittersweet decision as there’s a lot India has to offer from a great international education for my children to living a global lifestyle. However, after finishing business school recently, my desire to reinvigorate my career was the tilting point. I realized that we will not be able to see the great friends we made in India on a regular basis. Some live within minutes but others are hours away by plane. We made a conscious decision visit as many as we can before our time is up, and it’s too late.

It’s been busy but refreshing. A couple of weeks ago, we had a mini class reunion over dinner. Though it’s only been 2 months since graduation, it felt much longer as we slip into our daily routine again. Seeing each other rekindled bonds instantly as well as laughing at our personal stories that we created together.

A few days ago, I traveled to Pune (a 3 hour drive from Mumbai) to see my friend, Sagar) who leads Tenneco’s operations in India where he hosted and personally gave a tour of his factory. It’s not often that a Managing Director would take time out of his day to do so, but my wife and I were honored and grateful. It was exciting to see how well he is doing professionally but also how well his mind, body, and spirit is doing. I also can now empathize for those who made that monthly commute to our classes – definitely a time investment.

We have more trips planned during the end of the month and next year to see as many friends as we can. It’s not to say farewell but to strengthen our friendship. I would urge everyone to breakout of your daily routine and see an old friend. I get it. It takes effort. But, that effort is just a mental barrier as once you see that friend, you’ll realize, it wasn’t any effort. Just don’t wait until it’s too late.

Next is Dr. Ashley Thomas…we’ll see you in Kerala.

Giving Thanks with a Touch of Karma

Living in India for the past two years has taught me many lessons. One was shared by my friend and classmate (Prasad Somanathan) of Indian philosophy and karma that just struck a chord with me. Life sure has its ways to reward and humble you…and quickly too. As we approach the US Thanksgiving, I wanted to share this philosophy around India’s demonetization, a maneuver that has extremely significant upsides, but one the country must endure through the pain of the monetary action.

On Nov 8, Prime Minister Modi banned 500 and 1000 rupee notes (equivalent of the US banning $10 and $20 bills) overnight to eliminate the “black money” economy which is believed to be ~25% of the GDP. While this has caused liquidity issues for all (India is a predominantly cash economy) especially those who do not have bank accounts (e.g. rural India, the poor), it is viewed as a necessary step to transition India from a developing country. Investors must have confidence in the country’s transparency as India fights corruption.

I am thankful that my family is fortunate to be sheltered from these impacts since we have debit and credit cards as alternative money sources. I am also thankful that as an American citizen, we emerged from our banking crisis in 2008. However, I am also reminded of what Prasad shared with me in this situation that can apply to all.
1) Whatever happens had to happen that way – it could not change.
2) Whoever you meet in life, you are supposed to meet, and there is a purpose to meeting that person. There is no chance meeting.
3) Whatever has to start in life, it will only happen at that time – neither before or later.
4) What is over is over. Don’t hold on to the past.
Utilizing these principles of karma, I can view how demonetization affects me as an individual:
1) I was destined to be in India to witness, learn, and grow from India’s demonetization. I have never seen firsthand at how it directly impacts lives and now I carry these lessons forth.
2) I was accepted, enrolled, and graduated from the Executive MBA program from Washington University in St Louis and Indian Institute of Technology Bombay. Without meeting my friends and classmates, I would not have had the opportunity to learn how the Indian economy and monetization policy really works.
3) India’s demonetization started on Nov 8, 2016. After the Indian government continually warned its people that change was coming, it finally acted on that day.
4) Demonetization is here to stay and will not be called off. It’s a way of life, and now we have to get on with it.

We have lots to be thankful for and if we sprinkle some Indian philosophy, we can enrich why we are thankful.

ROAD TRIP!!

Sometimes in life, you have to “shake things up” to refresh your mind, body, and soul. One year ago, several of my Indian classmates and I decided to do just that – a road trip across the United States. It would be our unofficial capstone event as we complete our Executive MBA degree from Washington University and Indian Institute of Technology – Bombay. It was also a way for me to repay them for looking out for me in India.
pawn-shop On September 20, this dream became a reality. We started our 9 day, 7 states, and 2500 mile road trip from San Francisco to St. Louis. On the way, we drove through California, Nevada (Reno, Tonopah, Goldfield, and Las Vegas), Arizona (Grand Canyon), Utah (Moab), Colorado (Denver), Kansas (Hayes, Kansas City), and Missouri (St. Louis). Of course we had to visit Las Vegas, but the beauty of the trip was stopping at the national parks (Grand Canyon, Arches, and Rocky Mountain) and most importantly, meeting the people along the way. We met:

My cousin, Shelley, in San Francisco who taught us about leadership and the courage to be the one to make the change
Bob and Harold, at the Hawthorne Munitions Museum in Hawthorne, Nevada who exuded pride and patriotism (as a fellow vet, I salute your commitment)
Sharon in Goldfield, NV who epitomizes self-reliance and free thinking
Sumi in Las Vegas who is a high school classmate that I cherish with her honesty (even if it’s brutal)
Bill in Boulder, CO who shared his love of space by giving us a tour of his satellite operations
Ron, the owner of my son’s previous childcare facility, in Broomfield, CO who was gracious to share his insights so one of my classmates can open a daycare facility in India
Cindy, a family friend in Kansas City who hosted and endured us for an overnight stay and also provided a glimpse of US hospitality

While we will have formally completed our graduate degree on Oct 14, the life-long lessons we experienced have shaped our perspectives to listen, understand, and enjoy the company of others. We have much to learn if we are willing. I still can’t believe our journey has ended, but what a way to end it. I couldn’t have been any happier with the way it turned out and look forward to the next. My right foot, on the other hand, is happy to earn a rest from the gas pedal.

the-road-trip-crew

Time is of the Essence

I’m not sure what happened, but time has a way of sneaking and then speeding by you. In May, I was looking forward to spending time back home in Denver. In July, I came back to Mumbai and the next thing I know, it’s September. During that time, I finished my last graduate class in India, started my new term as the board president of an international school (volunteer), traveled to Vietnam to attend a governance conference, and now preparing to travel to Washington University in St Louis (WashU) to complete the joint Executive MBA program with Indian Institute of Technology Bombay(IITB) in October.

hari-in-action

Hari Sankaran, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS), succinctly stated 3 points that leaders must act upon for professional (and personal) success when he spoke to our batch (Note: In India, business schools use the term batch vs cohorts like the US).

People don’t know what they want – It is up to you to decipher what they want and need.
Congruence of leadership – The leadership team must all be aligned or face barriers and impediments along the way
Time is of the essence – You must act and take advantage of the opportunities given

When I first started my journey in India, I was focused on traveling and applying what I learned from graduate school. Little did I know was that was not really what I wanted.

Point 1 – What I realized I wanted was the ability to make a positive impact through strategic thinking, collaboration, and implementation in a multi-national environment. I have been fortunate to be able to give back through volunteerism.

Point 2 – Without the support of my family, the international school community, and WashU and IITB, I would not have been able to shape concepts and lead the decision making process effectively. Without this unified team, I would have struggled significantly.

Point 3 – “Paralysis analysis”. You have to act and put yourself out there. To me, luck is not a result but rather preparing yourself to take advantage of an opportunity that presents itself. I did not intend to become the board president but going back to school helped me prepare for this honor when it presented itself.

So simple yet so hard to execute properly. Sometimes it’s trial and error. Other times, it is “luck”. By knowing what questions to ask, how to build consensus, and when to act is the difference between struggle or success. So far, so good – I cannot complain of my results.

lobsang-pendha

Talk about “luck” – I was able to meet Lobsang Pendha, one of the Dalia Lama’s senior leaders in Vietnam.

A Little Randomness Goes A Long Way

Last week, I heard my phone buzz notifying me that I had a text. It was early in the morning, and I will not respond until I completed my “beauty rest”. However, instead of sleeping in (my family was back in Colorado as I had to come back to India early to attend grad school classes), I was wide awake at 5:30 AM. The texts were from a group chat of my friend sharing his trip to Boston as he was wrapping up his day. Another friend then asked what I was doing up so early and when my family was coming back. Once I told him I’m a pseudo bachelor for another week, he just said, “I’m coming over…I’ll show you mornings in Mumbai…”

Powai chi stand

If I was back home, I probably would have argued that I’m not going out that early, and I would see him another time. But, I realized he was on to something. We both needed to get out and do something different to give us a mental break – from his daily work “grind” to my established morning routine. 15 minutes later, he picked me up and went directly to a local chi (tea) stand. It’s like the local barbershop where you can find out everything that is going on in your neighborhood. It was surprisingly busy as typically, Indians are not morning people.

Afterwards, off to the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay to explore more of the campus. Since he was raised on campus (his mother is a professor), he showed me new areas including the Padmavati Devi temple and its chakra as well as views from atop a hill – it was also a good thing we were there after 6 AM since panthers have their own work schedule…

Padmavati Devi Temple Gate PNG Padmavati Devi Temple png Chakra png

It was definitely rejuvenating to see something new and more importantly, enjoy the company of others. We all get in a rut. Sometimes you feel trapped. But I urge you to break free from life’s routines and do something random. It can be small things like meeting a friend you haven’t seen in a while for lunch to life changing by moving ½ way around the world to India. Whatever it is, do something new. You’ll either love it or know you’ll never do that again. But the point is to “do” and take control of what you can control…your mindset and actions.

Panther sign png
So thank you, Ravi Vishnu, for teaching me a life lesson at 5:30 AM.