Sitting for an exam yesterday, after weeks of preparation, reminded me of the complexities of continuous learning. It’s both an exhilarating journey and a formidable challenge. Balancing work, life, and studies while absorbing new concepts feels like a marathon—one that tests not just intellect but endurance.
But despite the struggles, learning at top institutions like the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow offers immense value—not only in terms of academics but also through the brilliant minds we learn alongside.
The Challenges of Long Courses
Long executive programs require discipline, patience, and the ability to retain knowledge over months. At times, the sheer volume of material makes it feel impossible to keep up. Our final Economics classes were a true test of endurance. Fatigue set in, making complex topics seem insurmountable. Yet, just when we thought we had hit our limit, the sessions reignited our curiosity, proving that endurance is as crucial as intellect in executive learning.
Then came the real challenge: exam prep. With just two weeks to revisit 14 modules, the amount of material was daunting. And when we found out the exam would feature 64 MCQs to be completed in 80 minutes, frustration—and humor—took over. Our WhatsApp group became a battleground of witty comments on how concepts were tangling in our minds.
In the midst of this, Dr. Asheesh Jain humorously declared that we were trapped in an “Indrajaal“—a reference from the Atharvaveda where Indra ensnares his enemies in an inescapable net. It perfectly described our situation. A rockstar batchmate, Bhaskar Bhatt , elaborated on its origins, and our discussion evolved into a blend of ancient mysticism and exam preparation. Some likened it to the “Mayajaal,” while I even connected it to the 64 Yoginis, drawing from ancient Indian Tantra. When you’re buried in study material, why not add a bit of mysticism?
Peer Power
One of the greatest privileges of a leadership program is the opportunity to learn alongside exceptional peers and renowned faculty. It rekindles the fire that often dims under the weight of daily routines, workplace dynamics, and growing professional commitments, reminding us why we embarked on this journey of growth in the first place.
More than just a learning experience, a leadership program expands our perspectives. Engaging with peers from diverse industries, each bringing unique insights and real-world experiences, challenges our thinking and broadens our horizons. Conversations extend beyond coursework—discussions on strategy, economics, and organizational behavior often spark new ways of looking at our own professional challenges.
A special shout-out to my batch mates who meticulously organized study materials, making it easier for everyone to learn at their own pace. And of course, the spirited discussions, the shared problem-solving sessions, and the lighthearted WhatsApp banter made the journey even more enriching.
Connecting the Dots: Seeing the Bigger Picture
Beyond the classroom, the real magic lies in how different subjects start converging, offering a holistic view of leadership and business strategy. HR, economics, finance, leadership, strategy, brand, product, and customer relationship no longer feel like separate subjects but interconnected pieces of a larger puzzle.
This ability to connect the dots is perhaps the most valuable part of the program. Concepts that once seemed unrelated now provide a structured way to understand business and leadership at a deeper level.
And it’s not just theory—it has real, tangible impact. A big shoutout to a batchmate who aced an interview using insights from our Organizational Behavior modules. It’s a great reminder that while the 70:20:10 model focuses primarily on depth, making room for structured learning expands our breadth of knowledge. This broader perspective not only deepens our understanding but also opens doors to new horizons, enriching both personal and professional growth.
The Pre-Exam Panic & The Fun of Group Learning
The pre-exam phase is always a mix of panic and preparation. With so much to cover, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This time, GPT came to the rescue, generating explanations, summaries, and structured notes. The result? A 60-page cheat sheet. Ironically, it led to a new dilemma: Had I studied too much? The more I read, the more I questioned whether I was absorbing the material or just confusing myself further.
But the real fun came from group discussions. Our WhatsApp group was buzzing with theories, last-minute clarifications, and, of course, jokes about how we’d all be staring blankly at the exam paper. It was during these discussions that the real learning happened—breaking down complex concepts and helping each other connect the dots.
A special mention goes to our class representatives, who kept us on track with constant reminders about exam dates. He also added a “Vishesh Tippani”—a little last-minute panic to keep us on our toes, bringing back childhood memories of cramming for exams!
Looking Forward to the Immersion
Now that the exam is behind me, I’m excited for the upcoming immersion week—a chance to finally meet my peers and professors in person after months of online learning. While online learning builds knowledge, immersion solidifies it. The real magic of leadership development happens not just through lectures but through face-to-face interactions, shared perspectives, and real-world problem-solving. It’s an opportunity to dive into presentations, engage in face-to-face discussions, and reconnect with the faculty who have guided us through this journey. I’m looking forward to the enriching interactions, the camaraderie, and the chance to relive the college experience in a way that goes beyond virtual screens.
Final Thoughts
Continuous learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about expanding perspectives, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and challenging our own thinking. It’s tiring, yes. But it’s also incredibly rewarding.
For those who have juggled work and studies—have you ever been caught in your own ‘Indrajaal,’ only to have a moment of clarity that made everything click?
Quiet Reflections 