This story dates back to 2014. I was doing my Master’s thesis research at a lab in Bangalore. My sister’s wedding was around the corner and I was all about planning these cute surprise gifts for the couple. I had a strong urge to earn money for this on my own, rather than relying on pocket money from my parents, so I geared up to hustle.

I had three months left and a target of atleast 4000 bucks to make. I first thought, “Maybe McDonald’s or Dominos could work,” but my friend completely shot that idea down, calling it too risky for me. In India, it’s not common to see students, especially girls, doing any side hustles. I had to find something that was both safe and gave me some quick money. Tutoring crossed my mind, but I had zero clue on how to start. I googled for tutoring services in Bangalore and dialed every number that popped up asking them if they needed a tutor.

Finally a call came in with the home tutoring offer. I had to give a crash course in social science and english to a 9th grade kid, three hours everyday as his finals were near. That was perfect for my quick money mission.The next two months were the busiest. Lab work from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm, then a sprint to the student’s house for a three-hour tutoring session until 9:00 pm. Back home, a few hours prepping for the next day’s class, an hour crafting my sister’s wedding scrapbook gift, and finally sleeping by 1 am. This was the exact schedule for straight 2 months. But, hey, it paid off – I had more than enough cash for the wedding gifts. I was so proud of myself spending my hard-earned money on those gifts. And that feeling is literally unexplainable.

Looking back, what I’m even prouder of now is my attitude and mindset at that time. No complaints, pouring in all my sincerity into every task, no overthinking – just laser focused on getting things done. I did things I had no idea where to start, I called at least 40 people asking if they needed tutors before landing the offer and the rejections did not shake me at all, I just thought of the next step at all times, I loved my busy days and was proud of my productivity and I was very optimistic. Nowadays, when I find myself stuck in my career or feel low due to rejections, I remind myself of my younger self and reinstall the same attitude and mindset. Mindset matters!

So, what is the mindset from your younger self that you’d like to revive in yourself now?