Mumbai, 13th December, 2024: In today’s fast-paced world, leadership and personal growth are crucial elements for success, both in professional and personal spheres. Drawing insights from a diverse range of experiences, thought leaders often share valuable lessons that shape their approach to challenges. Whether it’s the timeless wisdom of Chanakya’s leadership secrets, the thrill of a beloved sport, or the key financial advice we wish we’d known earlier, each perspective offers unique reflections. This article delves into these perspectives, providing insights from personal experiences in leadership, career decisions, and more, along with recommendations that can inspire growth and success.
Join Mr. Rijo Yohannan, Head of Information Protection | Data Privacy | Risk & Compliance at Cigna Healthcare in an engaging and interesting conversation with Mr. Marquis Fernandes, who leads the India Business at Quantic India as they as they explore leadership, data privacy, risk management, and career insights in a dynamic conversation.
Can you recommend a book that has significantly influenced your approach to cybersecurity or leadership, and what key insights from that book have shaped your strategies or mind-set?
I am not an active reader, but the last book I read was “Chanakya’s 7 Secrets of Leadership.”
My key take away from it is that Chanakya’s 7 Secrets of Leadership explores timeless principles of leadership through the lens of ancient wisdom and practical strategies. One important insight is the emphasis on self-discipline and strategic thinking, which are essential for effective decision-making. Chanakya highlights the importance of understanding human behaviour and aligning individual goals with organizational objectives. This has profoundly influenced my leadership approach, encouraging me to build resilient, cohesive teams and to think several steps ahead in challenging situations.
What is your favourite sport to play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
My favourite sport to play is cricket. I love the energy it brings, whether it’s the thrill of hitting a perfect shot, the adrenaline rush of taking a wicket, or simply bonding with teammates over a shared passion. It’s not just about the game; it’s about the moments, the fun, and the memories we create together.
If you could give one piece of financial advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
I would advise my younger self to start investing early, even if it’s just small amounts, and to focus on compounding through diversified investments. I spent too much time trying to “save” rather than making my money work for me. This shift in mind-set would have helped me build a more robust financial foundation earlier in life.
If you had the chance to start your career all over again, what would you do differently, and why?
I wouldn’t change much, as I believe that all the paths I took, whether right or wrong, shaped me into who I am today. However, I would prioritize earning a few security certifications earlier in my career to establish credibility and expertise sooner.
If you weren’t a CISO, what other career path do you think you would have pursued and why?
If I weren’t a CISO, I would pursue a career in the movie industry. I’ve always had a deep love for cinema and would enjoy being involved in storytelling, production, or any creative aspect of filmmaking. Movies have a unique way of connecting people and sparking emotions, and being part of that magic would be incredibly fulfilling.
What kind of podcasts do you enjoy listening to, and is there a particular one you’d recommend to others?
I enjoy podcasts that focus on leadership, technology trends, and personal development. One podcast I’d recommend is “The Knowledge Project” by Shane Parrish. It’s packed with insights on decision-making, strategy, and life lessons from thought leaders across various industries.
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