Name: Kashish Chugh

Title: CEO and Founder

Organisation: Mentify Foundation

Kashish is not an ordinary girl but a dynamic force challenging stereotypes and proving that mastery can transcend the boundaries of a singular passion.She boldly challenges the adage of being a "jack of all trades, master of none," fervently believing that one can master multiple domains.Her philosophy transcends societal expectations, conveying a powerful message that mastery in multiple domains is not only possible but enriching, Kashish stands at the intersection of mental health, social work, art, and spirituality, advocating for a holistic approach that challenges preconceived notions.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

One of the most significant challenges I encountered was overcoming the prevailing notion that age is a determining factor in leadership capability. While the adage "age is just a number" is commonly invoked to support the capabilities of older individuals, the same sentiment is often overlooked when applied to the younger demographic.

Commencing my organization at the age of 18, I, as a young woman, faced skepticism regarding my competence, the depth of my knowledge, and the accomplishments I had achieved. Breaking through these preconceptions required a steadfast commitment to my vision, coupled with a continuous demonstration of my capabilities. This experience reinforced my belief that one's potential is not defined by age, but rather by dedication, skills, and the ability to enact positive change.

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

The trajectory of many esteemed leaders often begins not with a predetermined ambition for leadership, but rather with a profound vision aimed at effecting positive change. In my own journey, shaped by a familial backdrop deeply rooted in Indian traditions and culture, I made the unconventional choice of pursuing psychology—an endeavor that encountered resistance from various quarters.

As I immersed myself in the intricacies of the field, a discernment unfolded: the prevailing perspectives on mental health, though not entirely misguided, required reevaluation. This realization propelled me to establish an organization with a dedicated mission to alter societal perceptions of mental health. I sought to underscore that these issues are not as superficial as commonly perceived but possess deep-seated roots spanning generations within an individual's family.

The conviction that early intervention could not only address individual concerns but also bring about healing for subsequent generations became a driving force. The commencement of my organization marked a pivotal step in fostering this crucial change. The ensuing recognition and appreciation from those impacted reinforced the significance of the value I brought to their lives—a realization that prompted the strategic growth of my organization.

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

I consider myself a highly organized individual, recognizing the pivotal roles of discipline and consistency in achieving excellence in life. However, I firmly believe that personal well-being should be seamlessly integrated into one's daily routine, extending beyond professional commitments.

My day typically commences with a dedicated meditation session, setting a mindful tone for the day ahead. This is followed by prioritizing a nutritious breakfast, laying the foundation for sustained energy and focus. The meticulous scheduling of work meetings the night before ensures a structured and productive workday.

Amidst professional responsibilities, I carve out time for meaningful interactions with family, recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Incorporating outdoor walks into my routine serves not only as a physical activity but also as a mental rejuvenation, fostering holistic well-being.

As the day concludes, I allocate time for leisure reading and reflective moments, acknowledging the significance of continuous personal growth. This thoughtful approach to daily routines reflects my commitment to not only professional excellence but also the cultivation of a balanced and fulfilling life.

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

A recent lesson I've gleaned is the critical importance of maintaining a work-life balance. In the initial phases of my journey, I found myself immersed solely in work, neglecting the need for equilibrium. This unbridled dedication eventually led to a phase of overexertion, reaching a point where my body could no longer sustain the relentless pace.

The consequences were palpable—diminished creative ideas, dwindling working hours, and a notable lack of concentration, creating a sense of stagnation. It became evident that a balanced approach is not only sustainable but also essential for long-term success. Embracing the adage that "slow and steady wins the race," I've since adopted a more measured pace, recognizing the intrinsic value of maintaining equilibrium to ensure sustained productivity and overall well-being.

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?

As an avid reader, I've had the pleasure of immersing myself in a myriad of books, and two particular works have left an indelible impact on me. "It's Okay to Feel Things Deeply" by Carissa Potter and "Show Your Work" by Austin Kleon have been instrumental in shaping my perspective.

Carissa Potter's book resonated with me on a deep emotional level, offering insights into the acceptance of profound feelings. It provided a valuable framework for understanding and navigating emotions, fostering a heightened sense of self-awareness.

Austin Kleon's "Show Your Work" played a pivotal role in transforming my approach to self-expression, especially as someone who has navigated shyness. The book underscored the importance of sharing one's journey, achievements, and goals with others. It illuminated the significance of networking and how openly showcasing one's work can contribute to personal and professional growth.

Given the profound impact these books have had on me, I wholeheartedly recommend them to fellow leaders. They serve as invaluable guides, offering wisdom on embracing emotions and the transformative power of sharing one's work with the world.

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

A valuable piece of advice that I have internalized and would like to share is the recognition that it's okay to let things be sometimes. While meticulous planning is essential, it's crucial to acknowledge that not every situation will unfold according to our predetermined plans. However, this acknowledgment shouldn't be a deterrent to action. Instead, it underscores the importance of preparing oneself for uncertainties and risks that may arise along the way.

Setting realistic expectations becomes key in navigating the unpredictable nature of life and endeavors. Embracing this perspective allows for a more adaptive and resilient approach, fostering the ability to learn and grow from unexpected outcomes. It encourages a balance between proactivity and acceptance, promoting a mindset that is both ambitious and attuned to the inherent unpredictability of the journey.

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

Allow me to share a meaningful story from my leadership experience. There was a pivotal moment when we faced the challenge of conducting a session on short notice, with a target audience nearly four times larger than any we had addressed before. The situation seemed daunting as none of the team members were initially available.

However, the unexpected unfolded into a testament of teamwork and camaraderie. Having fostered an environment of empathy and support within the team, my employees, despite prior commitments, rallied together to lend their assistance. This collective effort not only met the challenge but exceeded expectations, turning what initially felt like a roadblock into a resounding success.

The lesson learned was profound — in the realm of leadership, caring for the well-being of your team is paramount. The bond shared among team members, cultivated through empathy and a sense of collective purpose, proved to be the driving force behind overcoming obstacles. This experience reinforced my belief that the team is more than just a group of individuals; they are a family, and nurturing that familial bond is integral to achieving shared goals and navigating challenges successfully.