Striving towards Excellence

-Karthik Gurumurthy

Building social capital, I've learned, is similar to developing financial capital - it requires consistent, intentional effort. The simple acts matter tremendously: remembering birthdays (which apparently makes people 14.1% happier!), sending thank-you notes, or just offering a friendly wave to neighbors. These small gestures compound over time, like interest on an investment.

Success network is a strategy that  I'm now implementing in my own life. Instead of trying to figure everything out alone, I'm learning to identify and learn from those who've already achieved what I'm aiming for. Whether it's someone with excellent study habits, a successful career, or a strong relationship, there's wisdom in seeking guidance from those who've walked the path before us.

I've also learned to be discerning about whose advice I take. It's taught me to "stick with the winners" - to seek counsel from those who have actually succeeded in the areas where I want to grow.

This approach to building both social capitas isn't just about networking - it's about creating authentic connections and learning opportunities. It's like having a personal board of advisors, each selected for their specific expertise and proven success.

The key lesson I'm taking away is that success doesn't happen in isolation. It's built through meaningful connections, careful observation of those who've succeeded before us, and the wisdom to know whose advice to seek and whose to politely decline. After all, in our journey toward any goal, the quality of our relationships and the wisdom of our mentors can make all the difference.