Self Reflections at 50

Today, as I stand at the milestone of my 50th birthday, I find myself wrapped in a quiet moment of reflection — a rare pause to look back, look within, and look ahead - half a century of living, learning, loving, stumbling, healing, and growing. It's a number that once seemed distant and mysterious, but now feels like a beautiful resting point on life’s winding journey — a vantage from which I can look back with gratitude, and forward with hope.

Before I reflect on myself, I want to start by saying thank you — a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has walked this path with me.

To my parents, who gave me life and values To my wife, who has been my constant — my strength, my companion, my peace

To my children, who taught me the true meaning of selflessness

To my teachers and mentors, who helped shape my thinking. To my friends, who stood by me in laughter and in struggle

Every person who entered my life, even briefly, has left a mark. You have contributed to my being in ways big and small — and for that, I am deeply grateful.

In earlier years, I often measured success through the lens the world gave me — titles, trophies, wealth, headlines. I used to look at those "30 under 30" lists, or read stories of young entrepreneurs building unicorns, and I wondered quietly: What have I really achieved?

I wasn’t featured in magazines (though only once). I didn’t build an empire. I didn’t disrupt industries or make waves on social media.

But then I looked again — at my life, not through society’s eyes, but through the lens of love, purpose, and responsibility.

I raised children who are educated, kind, and grounded — children who studied in the UK (its an achievement for people coming from my background), but more importantly, who grew up with good values.

I fulfilled my responsibilities with sincerity — I was there for my family, I stood by my friends, I supported my wife not just as a partner, but as a companion in life’s everyday moments. I kept my word. I stayed loyal. I gave what I could when others needed me. I stayed humble, and I tried to do the right thing, even when no one was watching.

And that… that is 'success'.

They don’t write headlines about people like me. But I have lived a meaningful life — a real life. I have been a provider, a listener, a shoulder to cry on, a source of laughter, a safe place for my loved ones.

In a world chasing applause, I have found joy in being steady. In being enough. In being there.

It took me 50 years to understand this: success isn’t about being seen by the world. Its about being remembered with love by those who truly matter.

I don’t know how many more birthdays I will be blessed with, but I do know this — the next phase of my life is about peace, presence, and giving back. I want to slow down, not because I am tired, but because I finally understand the value of stillness.

I want to laugh more, worry less. Love more deeply. Forgive more quickly. Be there — fully — for the people who make this life worth living.

Today, I don’t feel old. I feel full — of memories, of gratitude, of quiet joy.

And if I could go back and speak to my younger self, I would simply say: You did well. You were never ordinary.

Happy 50th to me — and thank you, life.