Leadership is not a ticket to comfort and luxury
Straight out of college and fresh from IPS training, my first real assignment landed me in a position that many spend decades working toward — Commissioner of Police, Trivandrum City.
At the time, I had just over seven months of field experience. That’s it. Meanwhile, the Assistant Commissioners (ACPs) working under me were seasoned officers with 20+ years in the trenches. Naturally, they were skeptical. How could someone in their twenties, with barely any on-ground exposure, lead a team of veterans?
When You’re New, People Will Doubt You — And That’s Okay
It was clear from the start that my ideas were met with hesitation. Every time I suggested a different approach or offered a new perspective, the response was often along the lines of:
“Sounds good on paper — but policing doesn’t work that way.”
I understood their reluctance. They had seen the ground reality, while I was still largely operating from what I’d been taught. It became obvious that earning their trust would take more than words.
So I decided to stop talking — and start showing up.
Action Builds Credibility Faster Than Words
I told my senior officers, “Whenever there’s a serious law and order issue, just let me know — I’ll be there personally.”
And I meant it. Instead of sitting behind a desk or managing from the Police Control Room, I made it a point to be physically present during tense situations. Especially during riot control or volatile protests, I stood on the ground with my team.
Slowly, I noticed a shift. The tone changed. The doubts didn’t vanish overnight, but my presence made an impact.
Still, one of the ACPs remained distant. Respectful, yes — but clearly not convinced.
The Moment Things Changed
Then came a particularly tense day. A mob had blocked the National Highway to Kanyakumari. Political figures had started to interfere. The situation was heating up, and violence seemed almost certain.
That day, the same ACP who had kept his distance called me and said,
“Sir, the situation is too volatile. Can you come to the spot?”
I went immediately. We handled it together. And something shifted. From that day on, his approach toward me became noticeably warmer.
Leadership Can’t Be Given — It Has to Be Earned
That experience taught me a lesson I’ve carried ever since: titles can be assigned, but respect must be earned.
You can be appointed to a leadership role, but real influence only comes when people trust your willingness to lead from the front. You don’t inspire others by staying comfortable — you earn their respect when you’re ready to do the hard things yourself.
Leadership Isn’t a Privilege — It’s a Responsibility
Too often, leadership is seen as a position of ease — a step toward more comfort, more authority, more perks.
But in truth, real leadership is about stepping into discomfort when others hesitate. It’s about putting yourself in the tough spots first, not last.
Leadership is not a title you wear. It’s a duty you carry — especially when things get hard.
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