She is a successful business women, scripting inspiring stories and has been leading from the front in the business women league. Spreading her wings in the corporate world, she is a very disciplined professional too who knows how to meet her deadlines. Yes, we are talking of Nivedita R Sarda, President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – Indian Women Network (IWN), Rajasthan Chapter who has made a mark in world of entrepreur who proudly shares that it was her mother in law who helped her take a success path. A few excerpts….
Q1: What are your views on the term ‘women entrepreneurship’? Is it a justified term? Is there a community we can call women entrepreneurs?
Nivedita R Sarda: Women entrepreneurship as a term is very strong. However, there is often confusion about whom to call a woman entrepreneur. A woman who owns land and sells crops or vegetables is a woman entrepreneur. Unfortunately, society tends to recognize only those women who have shops, industries, or provide services as entrepreneurs. This perception needs to change. We need to broaden our understanding and recognition of women entrepreneurs in all forms of business.
Q2: Many people start but fail to take off. Is there a need for mentoring, training, pitching, or handholding?
Nivedita R Sarda: From my experience, women require assertiveness. We seek recognition for our work. Mentoring and handholding are crucial, but self-motivation is the most important. My journey as an entrepreneur was motivated by my mother-in-law, who encouraged me to use my education and skills instead of staying at home. Support from family can be a significant factor in driving women forward. Women often struggle with handling failure because of their high commitment levels. When they face setbacks, they might feel mentally blocked. At such times, they need support and encouragement to try again. Additionally, women often lack the necessary environment to see themselves at growth stages. For instance, aspiring to start a 100-crore manufacturing business can feel daunting without the right network and support. Women have the potential but often miss out on networking and funding opportunities, which are crucial for reaching higher levels of success.
Q3: What are your views on work-life balance?
Nivedita R Sarda: I can only share my personal experience. I adhere to the concept of being fully present where I am. When I am at the office, I focus solely on work, not on what is happening at home. Similarly, when I am at home, I disconnect from work completely. This approach reduces stress and anxiety. Prioritization is also essential. If work is important, dedicate the necessary time to it, and the same goes for home. My father advised me to create a timetable and stick to it. This helps your entire ecosystem adjust, ensuring that your family and colleagues respect your boundaries and time.
Q4: What is your message to women entrepreneurs?
Nivedita R Sarda: Think big, very big, and then work accordingly. Don’t overthink. Just think and do it. Challenges will come, but keep working. It’s like swimming; if you’re drowning, you try to swim to survive. Similarly, as an entrepreneur, you need to continuously work, face challenges, and strive to achieve your goals.