Name: Dr. Ripal Ranpara

Title: Founder, Assistant Professor

Organisation: Excellence Education Tech, Atmiya University

ripalranpara.com

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Dr. Ripal's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

I firmly believe in viewing situations and making decisions from the perspective of my employees. I've always held the belief that if employees are content and fulfilled in their roles, they are more likely to contribute positively to the organization as a whole. As a leader, my primary focus should be on steering the ship, meaning the organization, towards its goals and objectives.

It's essential for me not to get entangled in unnecessary competition or power struggles. Instead, I strive to maintain a fearless and courageous approach to leadership. This means making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization, even if they are difficult or unpopular. It also means being unafraid to take calculated risks when necessary to drive progress.

Throughout this journey, I ensure that the well-being and concerns of my employees are always kept in mind. Their satisfaction and growth are integral to the success of the organization, and I am dedicated to supporting them in their professional journeys, side by side with our shared goals.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

leadership is indeed a journey, not a destination. It's a beautiful and transformative journey where you often discover your true self when faced with challenges and uncertainties. Just as a ship's captain navigates through storms and calm seas, a leader learns and grows through the various phases of their journey.

My journey into leadership began with a deep passion for my field and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. It all started during my academic years when I discovered my love for technology and its potential to transform lives. I pursued education and honed my skills in computer science and information technology. As I progressed in my career, I found myself naturally taking on leadership roles. I became a mentor to fellow students, sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them excel. This initial taste of leadership fueled my enthusiasm further. After completing my education, I joined the academic world as an Assistant Professor. This role allowed me to extend my influence to a broader audience of students. I saw teaching not just as a profession but as a means to inspire and empower the next generation. Simultaneously, I delved into the world of technology and research, contributing to academic projects and collaborating with various organizations. These experiences broadened my horizons and exposed me to the challenges and opportunities of leadership in the tech industry.

My leadership journey truly took off when I founded Excellence Education Tech, a platform dedicated to fostering learning and innovation. It was a step toward creating a positive impact beyond the classroom.

Over the years, I became involved in numerous professional bodies, committees, and initiatives, both at the national and international levels. This allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals and share my passion for technology, education, and research.

Today, my leadership journey continues to evolve as I seek opportunities to drive positive change, mentor emerging talents, and advocate for the advancement of technology and education. Each step of this journey has been shaped by my unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep sense of purpose.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Balancing work and personal health is of paramount importance, and I learned this lesson early in my career. In the initial phases, I was driven by an insatiable passion for my work, often putting in more than 18 hours a day. Despite well-intentioned advice from senior colleagues cautioning me about the toll it was taking on my health, I pushed myself relentlessly. However, there came a point where the consequences of this extreme dedication became undeniable. I started experiencing dizziness and overwhelming stress, to the extent that I couldn't even sit for ten minutes without feeling overwhelmed. It was a challenging period, but it served as a wake-up call. I realized that if I wanted a sustainable and successful career in the long run, I had to prioritize both my health and my work. This realization led me to adopt a more balanced and sustainable approach, ensuring that I could give my best to my professional endeavours while also safeguarding my well-being. Nowadays, I have incorporated various practices into my daily routine to maintain that crucial balance between my work and personal well-being. Meditation has become a cornerstone of my daily life, helping me cultivate mindfulness and manage stress effectively. Nature walks have also become a cherished part of my routine, offering a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. Self-talk has proven to be a powerful tool in my journey towards a more balanced life. It allows me to reflect, set intentions, and stay focused on my priorities. This shift in my approach, emphasizing practices like meditation, nature walks, self-reflection, and quality time with loved ones, has not only improved my overall well-being but has also enhanced my effectiveness as a leader. It's a testament to the importance of nurturing both personal and professional aspects of life for long-term success and fulfilment.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that has resonated with me is the importance of self-satisfaction. It serves as a reminder that true leadership encompasses not only achieving external goals but also finding personal fulfillment and contentment in the impact and contributions made. This lesson reinforces the idea that effective leadership starts with self-fulfillment, which then radiates outward to inspire and empower others.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

"The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne has had a profound impact on my leadership journey. This book introduced me to the concept of the law of attraction and the power of positive thinking. It emphasized the idea that our thoughts and beliefs have a direct influence on our reality and the outcomes we achieve.

The book's teachings encouraged me to adopt a more positive and optimistic mindset in both my personal and professional life. It made me realize the significance of visualizing success, setting clear intentions, and maintaining unwavering belief in my goals. As a leader, this newfound perspective allowed me to approach challenges with greater confidence and resilience.

"The Secret" reinforced the notion that positivity and self-belief are not only personal attributes but also leadership qualities that can inspire and motivate others. It helped me understand that by embodying these principles, I could lead by example and empower those around me to achieve their full potential. "The Secret" taught me that leadership is not just about external strategies and techniques; it begins with a positive and focused mindset. This book has been a guiding force in my leadership journey, reminding me of the transformative power of thoughts and beliefs in achieving both personal and professional success.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

My advice to a young leader would be this: Embrace authenticity with unwavering passion. Be unapologetically yourself, because your unique perspective and individuality are your greatest assets. When you lead with authenticity, you inspire trust, build genuine connections, and create a positive impact that resonates with others. So, believe in your authentic self, stay true to your values, and lead with your heart. Your authenticity will be your guiding light on the remarkable journey of leadership. I would also emphasize the importance of being integral, humble, and never doubting your intentions. These qualities are the bedrock of effective leadership. Integrity ensures that your actions align with your values, earning the trust and respect of those you lead.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

Still way to go to experience the leadership. I always believe I have so much to do so less time but let me share.One meaningful story that stands out from my time as a leader revolves around a student I had the privilege to mentor. This student initially struggled with self-confidence and doubted their abilities. As a leader, my role was not just about imparting knowledge but also about instilling belief and fostering personal growth.

Over time, through mentorship and support, I watched this student transform. They gradually began to believe in themselves, take on challenging projects, and excel in their academic journey. The turning point came when they presented their research at a prestigious conference, receiving recognition and applause from peers and experts.

Seeing this transformation was deeply fulfilling as a leader. It highlighted the power of mentorship, belief in others, and the potential for personal growth. This experience reinforced my commitment to guiding and inspiring others, knowing that with the right support and encouragement, individuals can achieve remarkable growth and success. It's a reminder of the profound impact leaders can have on the lives of those they mentor and lead.