You know how the universe just… places people in your path?
Little instances, leading you to something bigger, even if you have no clue at the time? That’s exactly what happened in the early days of 21DEGREES Advisory Services Private Limited. It’s unreal how things connect.
Picture this: Years ago, I had a experimental phase with a venture called Laundry Kingdom. (Spoiler alert: lasted maybe six months!) One of our headaches was finding delivery guys. And that’s where I stumbled upon this absolute gem “Aarif”.
He was a collection agent for Vodafone back then – you know, when companies sent runners to your doorstep if you forgot a bill.
Fast forward to 2017. 21DEGREES Advisory Services Private Limited was gaining traction. Our tax awareness seminars were booming, and suddenly, everyone wanted us to file their ITRs. Great, right?
Except for a new challenge: collecting documents. People weren’t privy with WhatsApp so much. So, what was I doing every day? Battling traffic, crisscrossing the city, just to pick up forms. It was a tiring, time-sucking cycle.
I’ve always believed business is about building genuine, meaningful partnerships. It’s about finding that sweet spot – without blowing your budget.
Then, like a bolt, it hit me: my Vodafone guy! Could he help?
called him up. He mentioned his structure: modest salary, plus ₹50 per pickup. I told him my situation.
Without missing a beat, he goes, “Bhaiya, mein 5 ladke laa du to? Har district ke liye ek”
My eyes sparkled! An idea clicked. I made an offer: “I can’t do a fixed salary. But your team is already out there, right? How about they handle my pickups at their convenience? I’ll pay a flat ₹150 per pickup. Plus, collect payments.
A little back and forth, and the next thing I know, he brings five guys to meet me. We shook hands, ironed out the task, and boom! I had my own little army of runners. My personal travel time for collections? “NOW ZERO”.
Finally, I could focus on what I’m good at – serving our clients – instead of playing document detective across Delhi.
All this made something very clear:
Never Waste a Single Connection: You never know when that random person you met in a different context will become vital. Build real relationships.
You Can’t Do Everything: You’ve got 24 hours. Trying to be a superhero is a recipe for burnout. So Outsource, hire, delegate!
Action Beats Perfection, Every Single Time: As a smart friend once told me, “Jeewan mein bohot acha karne waale kabhi kabhi acha bhi nahi karte.” (People who strive for absolute perfection sometimes don’t even to do what’s just good.)
In business, consistent action will always, always trump the elusive ‘perfect.’ Just do it.
If your grand plan is to do everything yourself, you’re not just limiting your time; you’re limiting your vision and reach. Build your ecosystem, trust in collaboration, and zero in on what truly, genuinely matters.
Radhe Radhe
www.21degrees.in
