There is a lot to be said for being Indian and many of those positive characteristics – intellect, innovation and adaptability etc have led to Indian managers making their mark all over the world and Indian companies competing on even terms with their global counterparts in many sectors. However, there are a few negative traits that we need to watch out for as well. The argumentative nature of Indians has been captured in a celebrated book in recent years but the unwillingness to think positive and stay positive is what gives me the most concern.
“What is there to be positive about” is the comment I have heard from many colleagues and even some young students every time I have made this argument. The newspapers are mainly full of negativism and the acrimonious nature of TV debates which often degenerate into shouting matches on prime time would make us believe that India is a dismal place, full of natural and man-made calamities. The corporate sector too, often accused of poor governance and bad practices, has come in for its share of criticism and cynicism. All this leads to a souring of the atmosphere and a perception among some in recent years that an opportunity to fly away to greener pastures is the best solution.
By Ganesh Natarajan
