Career Lessons from my 50 Marathons | Gurucharan Singh Gandhi | TEDxUnited Institute of Technology
In this deeply inspiring talk, Gurucharan Singh Gandhi takes us on a journey through two of his greatest teachers; running and work. With over 25 years in corporate leadership and 50 half marathons across mountains, cities, and coasts, he beautifully connects the discipline of endurance running with the long arc of a career.Through personal anecdotes and profound reflections, Mr. Gandhi explores what it truly means to “last the distance.” He speaks about preparation that begins before the start line, the illusion of easy paths, the need to respect life’s terrain, and the quiet strength found in perseverance. His message transcends professions, reminding us that careers, like marathons, are not races to win but journeys to complete with purpose, humility, and inner steadiness.With warmth, wisdom, and relatable candor, Mr. Gandhi leaves us with a thought that lingers long after: in running, in life, and in our careers, the real victory lies in staying the course. Gurucharan Singh Gandhi masterfully navigates two seemingly disparate worlds: the high-stakes environment of corporate leadership , currently serving as CHRO, Vodafone and the reflective solitude of a writer and long-distance runner. As a top HR leader for major corporations like Vodafone Idea and the Aditya Birla Group, he has spent over two decades decoding the complexities of human capital. Yet, he is equally known for his literary pursuits, including the bestselling book "Kabeer in Korporates," which uniquely distills ancient wisdom for the modern workplace. A seasoned marathoner with over 50 half-marathons to his name, Gurucharan embodies the principles of resilience and balance. His story offers a compelling roadmap on how to build a successful professional life without sacrificing personal passion and holistic well-being. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 15:56The Science of Burnout — And How Your Brain Rebuilds You! | Agastya Sharma | TEDxYouth@JGISWhat really happens to your brain when you’re burnt out? In this insightful TEDx talk, Agastya Bhuvnesh Sharma dives deep into the neuroscience of burnout — explaining how chronic stress rewires our brain, silences motivation, and weakens emotional control.But there’s hope. Through fascinating research and relatable insights, Agastya reveals how the same brain that breaks down under pressure is also wired to rebuild itself — through rest, reflection, and resilience.From the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex to the dopamine system, this talk explores how understanding our mind’s biology can help us move from breakdown to breakthrough. Agastya Sharma, a 16-year-old IBDP student at JG International School, is passionate about science, education, and social impact. With a strong academic focus on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, he aspires to become a neurosurgeon, inspired by his curiosity about the human brain and its healing potential. Agastya has led community outreach initiatives with organizations such as Hamari Pahchan and India Recycles, championing education and social equity. A seasoned public speaker and MUN awardee, he is fluent in five languages and is currently authoring a research paper on BDNF-mediated neurogenesis. Balancing academics with badminton and guitar, Agastya envisions opening a hospital that provides affordable healthcare for underserved communities. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 15:24Making Happiness a Choice - A Journey from Challenges to Joy | Ms. Shalini Jaiswal | TEDxYouth@JGISWhat if happiness wasn’t something to chase — but something you could choose every day?In this heartfelt TEDx talk, the speaker shares a deeply personal journey of turning life’s challenges into opportunities for joy and strength. Drawing from her experience as a mother of twin sons diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, she reveals how compassion, honesty, gratitude, and mindfulness can transform pain into purpose.This talk reminds us that happiness isn’t about perfect circumstances — it’s about perspective, gratitude, and courage to respond to life with positivity. Shalini Jaiswal is an accomplished education leader with over 10 years of teaching and 19 years in school administration. Currently Principal of Seth M. R. Jaipuria School, Lucknow, she has previously led St. John’s Universal School, Mumbai, to national and international recognition, winning the British Council International School Award and a top Times of India ranking. Recipient of accolades including Progressive Principal of India and the Gloria de Souza Excellence Award, she is also a TEDx community member who has hosted TEDxYouth events. A dynamic leader, she continues to shape institutions that empower students with values, innovation, and global outlook. Her vision is to nurture future-ready learners who combine academic excellence with strong character and creativity. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx