Rising Through Resilience: Mahfuz Chowdhury On The Five Things You Can Do To Become More Resilient During Turbulent Times

An Interview With Savio P. Clemente

Embrace Failure as Feedback: Rather than seeing failure as a reflection of personal worth, view it as feedback for growth and improvement. Think of a professional named James, who encountered setbacks in his career advancement. Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, he reframes his perspective. He recognizes that failures provide valuable insights and feedback. James uses these experiences to identify areas for development, seek further education or training, and ultimately build resilience by transforming setbacks into stepping stones towards success.

Resilience has been described as the ability to withstand adversity and bounce back from difficult life events. Times are not easy now. How do we develop greater resilience to withstand the challenges that keep being thrown at us? In this interview series, we are talking to mental health experts, authors, resilience experts, coaches, and business leaders who can talk about how we can develop greater resilience to improve our lives.

As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mahfuz Chowdhury.

From a shy introvert to a nationally acclaimed brand strategist, keynote speaker, author, and podcast host, Mahfuz has forged an extraordinary path of personal growth and professional success. With unwavering determination, he mastered the art of resilience, breaking through barriers and embracing the power of storytelling. Mahfuz Chowdhury is the author of two influential books on marketing and branding and has released over 150 podcast episodes on personal and professional growth. Through captivating keynote presentations delivered across Canada and the United States, he ignites inspiration and empowers audiences to unlock their true potential. With a passion for mentorship and a commitment to giving back, Mahfuz strives to be the guiding light he once yearned for during moments of shyness.

Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

I’d love to share a glimpse into a journey that took me from a shy introvert to a nationally acclaimed brand strategist, keynote speaker, author, and podcast host.

In my early years, I grappled with shyness and an innate introverted nature. Social interactions and public speaking seemed daunting, and the idea of being the center of attention filled me with anxiety. But deep within, there was an ember of determination, urging me to step out of my comfort zone and explore the vast possibilities that awaited.

With unwavering commitment and a thirst for personal growth, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement. I recognized that if I wanted to break into the dynamic world of marketing, I needed to master the art of resilience. It became my guiding light, propelling me forward, even in the face of daunting challenges.

As I honed my skills and ventured into the marketing industry, I discovered a profound love and passion for storytelling. It became my medium for connecting with others, sharing ideas, and making a lasting impact. Harnessing this passion, I authored two books on marketing and branding, delving into the intricacies of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. These publications became gateways to not only impart knowledge but also empower others to embark on their own transformative journeys.

In parallel, I embarked on a podcasting adventure, releasing over 150 episodes focused on personal and professional growth. It was a platform where I could lend a helping hand to others, drawing from my own experiences and the wisdom of inspiring guests. Through these conversations, I aimed to be the person I wished I had encountered during my own moments of shyness, providing guidance, motivation, and support.

The culmination of my efforts led to remarkable opportunities to deliver keynote presentations across Canada and the United States. Standing on stages, sharing insights, and connecting with audiences, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of storytelling and the ability to inspire others.

But success for me isn’t measured solely by accolades and achievements. It’s about giving back, and paying forward the support and guidance I received on my journey. My true passion lies in being that guiding light for others, helping them overcome their own barriers, and instilling in them the belief that resilience can be nurtured and dreams can be realized.

As I reflect on my journey, it’s clear that the path from a shy introvert to a nationally acclaimed brand strategist and mentor has been shaped by resilience, storytelling, and a commitment to personal growth. It’s an ongoing adventure, filled with new horizons to explore and individuals to inspire.

My ultimate mission is to be the catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals to embrace their true potential and embrace their own unique stories. Through my work as a brand strategist, author, podcast host, and mentor, I aspire to be the person I needed during my shyest moments — to lend a helping hand, ignite the spark of resilience, and guide others toward their own remarkable transformations.

Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?

One of the most intriguing and memorable stories from my career dates back 12 years ago when I was just a student embarking on my journey in the marketing industry. It all began with a phone call inviting me to interview for a co-op position at Candybox Marketing, a budding agency that was only two years young at the time.

The twist in the tale was that I had a mere 30 minutes to reach the interview location, which happened to be at a Starbucks coffee shop. As a student with limited financial resources, I quickly realized that I didn’t own a car and couldn’t afford a taxi. To make matters worse, there was no bus in sight that could get me there in time. The temptation to cancel or reschedule the interview crept in, with thoughts of convincing myself that it was just a co-op position and that other opportunities would arise.

However, amidst those doubts, a resilient voice emerged within me, reminding me of the potential impact this opportunity could have on my career. Determined not to let it slip away, I made a bold decision. I rummaged through my belongings and found my favorite running shoes, ready to face the challenge ahead.

As I embarked on my rain-soaked journey, running through the stormy weather, I couldn’t help but wonder if this act of resilience would pay off. Little did I know that this seemingly short and impromptu interview would serve as the catalyst for kickstarting my marketing career.

The interview at that Starbucks coffee shop turned out to be a turning point in my professional life. It opened doors and paved the way for my growth within Candybox Marketing. From that co-op position, I gradually worked my way up, eventually reaching the position of Senior Brand Strategist. It fills me with pride to see how Candybox has flourished over the years, becoming a nationally acclaimed agency and earning prestigious awards. Notably, it has also been recognized as one of Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies for three consecutive years.

Reflecting on this remarkable journey, I owe it all to that rain-soaked run and my trusted running shoes. It taught me valuable lessons about the power of resilience and seizing opportunities, even in the face of challenges. That pivotal moment taught me the importance of believing in myself, pushing beyond comfort zones, and taking bold steps towards my goals.

The story serves as a constant reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary opportunities are disguised in unexpected circumstances. It reinforces the notion that resilience, determination, and a willingness to go the extra mile, quite literally in my case, can lead to remarkable achievements and open doors to incredible professional growth.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?

I know you asked for one person, but I’m going to break the rule and mention two: my mom and dad.

When I reflect on my journey, there is no doubt that my parents have been the driving force behind my accomplishments. I am eternally grateful to them for the incredible opportunities they provided and their unwavering belief in my potential.

My parents’ resilience and determination were evident from the very beginning. They made the courageous decision to leave everything behind and immigrate to Canada, starting a new life filled with uncertainties and challenges. Their immigration journey alone exemplifies the immense strength and resilience they possess.

Coming to a new country with limited resources and a language barrier, my parents faced numerous obstacles. However, they approached each setback as an opportunity for growth and learning. Their resilience shone through as they navigated unfamiliar territories, working tirelessly to provide a better future for our family.

One of the most remarkable aspects of my parents’ support was their unwavering belief in my abilities. They instilled in me the mindset that failures and missteps are not the end but rather a chance to hit the reset button and learn valuable lessons. Instead of discouraging me from pursuing my dreams, they encouraged me to persist and strive for greatness.

Their continuous support and encouragement provided me with the confidence to take risks and embrace challenges. Whenever I stumbled or faced difficulties, my parents were there to offer guidance and remind me of my own resilience. They taught me that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones on the path to success.

I owe a tremendous amount of my growth and achievements to my parents’ unwavering support. Their sacrifices and relentless determination have given me a fair shot at life and empowered me to pursue my dreams fearlessly. They have been my pillars of strength, guiding me through life’s ups and downs and nurturing a sense of resilience within me.

Without their guidance, I would not be where I am today (both physically and in terms of personal growth). Their belief in me has fueled my determination to overcome obstacles and reach for greatness. I am forever grateful for the foundation they laid and the values they instilled in me.

Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of this interview. We would like to explore and flesh out the trait of resilience. How would you define resilience? What do you believe are the characteristics or traits of resilient people?

Resilience, as I see it, goes beyond the traditional notion of bouncing back from difficult situations. In today’s rapidly evolving world, I believe we need to redefine resilience to be more proactive and forward-thinking. Instead of merely weathering storms, resilience should be about embracing change, fostering innovation, and seeking possibilities.

When it comes to personal resilience, we often think of it as something we build and then deploy in times of adversity. We are encouraged to develop coping mechanisms and mental fortitude to help us endure challenging circumstances. However, while researching twenty iconic brands for my latest book, The Resilient Brand, I started to see the idea of resilience through a completely different lens.

Brands, just like individuals, face their own unique challenges and disruptions. Yet, the most successful brands not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity. They do so by taking a proactive approach to resilience. Instead of waiting for adversity to strike, they innovate, adapt, and explore new possibilities to stay ahead of the curve.

Let me illustrate this perspective with a few examples. Think about companies like Apple, Nike, or Tesla. These brands have consistently redefined resilience by challenging the status quo and embracing innovation. Apple didn’t settle for being just a computer company; they transformed the way we listen to music, communicate, and even pay for goods and services. Nike didn’t limit themselves to selling shoes; they became a champion of empowering athletes and inspiring individuals to push their limits. Tesla didn’t conform to the traditional automotive industry; they revolutionized electric vehicles and sustainable energy.

These brands exemplify the proactive nature of resilience. They don’t wait for adversity to dictate their fate; they seize opportunities, disrupt markets, and redefine what is possible. By emulating this approach, we can apply brand resilience principles to our everyday lives. We can proactively seek innovation, embrace change, and explore new possibilities, enabling us to not only weather the storms that come our way but also emerge stronger and more adaptable.

So, in essence, I define resilience as a proactive mindset that empowers individuals and brands to constantly innovate, adapt, and explore new possibilities. It is about embracing change and pursuing growth, rather than merely reacting to challenges. By redefining resilience in this way, we can unlock our true potential and thrive in an ever-changing world.

I believe that the following are qualities that define resilient individuals in today’s dynamic world:

1 — Adaptability: Resilient individuals are adaptable and flexible in the face of change. They embrace uncertainty and are open to new ideas and approaches. Just like successful brands, they don’t cling to outdated methods or rigid mindsets. Instead, they proactively seek ways to evolve and thrive in shifting circumstances.

2 — Growth Mindset: Resilient people have a growth mindset, which means they view failures and setbacks as learning opportunities. They believe that their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. By seeing challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles, they maintain a positive outlook and continuously strive for improvement.

3 — Emotional Intelligence: Resilient individuals possess emotional intelligence, allowing them to understand and manage their own emotions while empathizing with others. They have the ability to regulate their responses to adversity, remain calm under pressure, and effectively communicate their needs and concerns. This emotional intelligence helps them build strong relationships and navigate difficult situations with empathy and understanding.

4 — Resourcefulness: Resilient people are resourceful problem-solvers. They don’t dwell on what they lack but focus on leveraging their strengths and available resources to overcome obstacles. They think creatively, seek alternative solutions, and are not afraid to take calculated risks. Like innovative brands, they find unique ways to address challenges and seize opportunities.

5 — Proactive Mindset: Unlike the reactive approach often associated with personal resilience, resilient individuals embrace a proactive mindset. They anticipate change, look for opportunities to grow, and take initiative in shaping their own paths. They understand that resilience is not about waiting for adversity to strike but about being proactive in pursuing innovation and possibilities.

By cultivating these qualities, individuals can navigate the complexities of life, just as successful brands navigate market challenges, and emerge stronger, more adaptable, and poised for growth.

Courage is often likened to resilience. In your opinion how is courage both similar and different from resilience?

Courage and resilience, as you rightly mentioned, are intertwined qualities that share similarities while embracing your perspective on resilience as a proactive approach encompassing innovation and possibility. Both qualities are essential for navigating challenges and embracing opportunities, albeit in different ways.

Courage, like resilience, involves inner strength and a willingness to confront difficult situations. It manifests as the ability to take bold action, step into the unknown, and face fear head-on. Courage empowers individuals to embrace vulnerability, challenge the status quo, and pursue their aspirations with determination and tenacity.

Resilience, on the other hand, expands beyond adversity. It encompasses not only the ability to bounce back from setbacks but also the proactive mindset of embracing innovation and exploring possibilities. Resilience is about staying ahead of the curve, adapting to change, and maintaining optimism even in times of calm. It is the capacity to proactively seek growth opportunities, continuously learn, and leverage innovation as a means of progress.

In this context, courage can be seen as a catalyst for the proactive resilience you envision. It takes courage to step outside your comfort zones, challenge conventional thinking, and embrace innovative solutions. By mustering the courage to explore new possibilities, individuals can foster a proactive mindset of resilience, where they actively seek opportunities for growth and approach challenges with a sense of optimism and possibility.

Together, courage and resilience create a powerful combination. Courage fuels the initial leap, propelling individuals to take risks and embrace change. Resilience sustains that courage, enabling individuals to persist in the face of challenges, learn from setbacks, and continue pushing forward with innovative thinking.

By embracing your perspective on resilience, individuals can cultivate a proactive approach to navigating life’s complexities. This approach involves actively seeking innovative solutions, embracing change, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. It encourages individuals to tap into their courage, challenge boundaries, and proactively shape their own paths rather than solely relying on resilience during times of adversity.

Together, courage and resilience form a powerful mindset that fosters personal growth, innovation, and a proactive approach to navigating life’s journey.

When you think of resilience, which person comes to mind? Can you explain why you chose that person?

When I think of resilience, one person who comes to mind is Malala Yousafzai. Malala’s story is a testament to the extraordinary strength and resilience of the human spirit, particularly in the face of adversity and oppression.

Malala, a Pakistani activist for female education, became a global symbol of resilience after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012. Despite the life-threatening attack, she refused to be silenced and continued her advocacy for girls’ education with even greater determination.

What makes Malala a remarkable example of resilience is her unwavering commitment to her cause and her ability to transform personal trauma into a catalyst for positive change. Instead of succumbing to fear or bitterness, she used her experience as a platform to amplify her message and inspire millions around the world.

Malala’s resilience is characterized by her remarkable adaptability. She adapted to her circumstances by relocating to the United Kingdom and continuing her education, while simultaneously advocating for the rights of girls worldwide. Her growth mindset is evident in her pursuit of knowledge, continuously expanding her understanding of the complex issues surrounding education and gender equality.

Furthermore, Malala demonstrates emotional intelligence by her ability to connect with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and age groups. Her empathy and compassion have allowed her to bridge divides and mobilize support for her cause.

Malala’s resourcefulness shines through her creative approach to activism. She leverages various platforms, including public speaking engagements, writing books, and establishing the Malala Fund, to empower girls and promote education globally. Her proactive mindset is evident in her relentless drive to create lasting change and her belief in the transformative power of education.

Malala Yousafzai’s resilience serves as an inspiration to us all. Her courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to her cause have shown that resilience is not only about personal survival but about using one’s voice and experiences to ignite change and empower others. Her story reminds us that resilience can be a force for positive transformation, transcending individual challenges and making a lasting impact on the world.

Has there ever been a time that someone told you something was impossible, but you did it anyway? Can you share the story with us?

Absolutely! I experienced this heavily during my journey from a shy introvert to becoming a high-energy keynote speaker who delivers impactful keynotes across Canada and the United States.

As a naturally reserved individual, the idea of speaking in front of others or being the center of attention seemed daunting and out of reach. Many doubted that I could overcome my introverted nature and excel in public speaking. However, I refused to let their skepticism define me or limit my potential.

Driven by a desire to break free from my comfort zone, I embarked on a transformational journey. I became a devoted student of the art of public speaking, immersing myself in books, courses, and conferences that provided insights into effective communication and presentation skills.

Despite the initial doubts and uncertainty, I committed myself to relentless practice and self-improvement. I took the bold step of recording my speeches and studying them meticulously, seeking areas for growth and refinement. It was a humbling process, but it allowed me to identify my strengths and weaknesses, empowering me to develop an authentic and impactful speaking style.

With each speaking engagement, I gained confidence and honed my craft. I started with small local events, gradually expanding my reach and venturing into larger conferences and keynotes. The more I pushed myself, the more I realized that the impossible was merely a perception waiting to be shattered.

Over time, I not only conquered my fear of public speaking but excelled at it. People who were aware of my introverted nature couldn’t believe the transformation they witnessed. They were astounded by my ability to captivate audiences and deliver inspiring speeches.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about the power of perseverance and self-belief. It reinforced the notion that others’ opinions of what is possible do not define our capabilities. I learned to trust my own potential, embrace challenges, and persist in the face of adversity.

Did you have a time in your life when you had one of your greatest setbacks, but you bounced back from it stronger than ever? Can you share that story with us?

More than I can count! Let me share a more recent story:

One of the greatest setbacks I experienced in my life was when I was invited to be on a reality TV show in the United States. It was an incredible opportunity that I had eagerly anticipated, and I had invested so much time and effort into preparing for it. I couldn’t help but imagine how this opportunity could potentially change my life, and I enthusiastically shared the news with everyone I knew.

However, just as I was getting ready to embark on this exciting journey, the unexpected happened. The global pandemic struck, causing widespread travel restrictions and uncertainties. Sadly, the TV show had to cancel my contract due to these circumstances. It was a heartbreaking moment for me, as I had pinned so many hopes on this opportunity and had even turned down other keynote speaking engagements to keep my schedule open.

Amidst the disappointment and frustration, I made a conscious decision to turn this setback into motivation. Instead of dwelling on what could have been, I picked up the phone and reached out to all the keynote events that I had previously canceled. I was determined to make up for the lost time and channel my energy into new opportunities.

As fate would have it, my proactive efforts paid off. I received an invitation to speak at a prestigious podcast conference, which turned out to be a game-changer. Not only did I deliver a powerful keynote, but I also had the honor of being recognized as a Guinness World Records holder for delivering a keynote at the world’s largest podcast event.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. Firstly, it reinforced the importance of resilience in the face of unexpected setbacks. Life is full of unpredictable twists and turns, and it is our ability to adapt and persevere that determines our success. Even when faced with disappointment, it’s crucial to maintain a positive mindset and proactively seek new opportunities.

Secondly, this setback reminded me of the significance of staying open-minded and embracing alternative paths. While the TV show didn’t materialize, it led me to explore other avenues that ultimately proved to be even more rewarding. By reaching out to the keynote events I had previously canceled, I discovered new speaking opportunities and achieved recognition for my expertise.

Lastly, this experience highlighted the power of seizing the moment and making the most of the present. Losing the TV series opportunity made me realize the value of time and the importance of making every opportunity count. It served as a reminder to prioritize my goals, make bold decisions, and actively pursue my aspirations.

The setback I faced when the reality TV show contract was canceled due to pandemic-related travel restrictions was a heartbreaking moment in my life. However, it motivated me to rebound and seek out new opportunities. Through my proactive efforts, I was able to secure speaking engagements and achieve recognition that surpassed my initial expectations. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and seizing the moment, reminding me that setbacks can often lead to even greater achievements if we remain determined and open to new possibilities.

How have you cultivated resilience throughout your life? Did you have any experiences growing up that have contributed to building your resiliency? Can you share a story?

Growing up, I had an experience that significantly contributed to building my resilience. When I was in University, I faced a period of academic challenges and setbacks that tested my perseverance and resilience.

During that time, I had always been a diligent and high-achieving student, but suddenly I found myself struggling in a particular subject. No matter how hard I studied or sought help, I couldn’t seem to grasp the concepts or achieve the grades I desired. It was a disheartening and frustrating experience, especially because I truly believed that it was a subject I could excel in.

Instead of giving up or succumbing to self-doubt, I decided to approach the situation with a resilient mindset. I shifted my perspective and saw this setback as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. I recognized that failure and challenges are a natural part of life, and what truly matters is how we respond to them.

I sought additional support from teachers, engaged in extra practice, and adopted new study strategies. I persisted, even when progress seemed slow or when doubts crept in. It was not an easy journey, but I maintained a resilient mindset and kept pushing forward.

Eventually, my efforts paid off. I started to regain my confidence and gradually discovered my passion and love for Marketing. What was once a significant obstacle transformed into a valuable lesson in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of perseverance.

This experience taught me that setbacks and failures do not define us. Instead, it is our response to these challenges that truly matters. It instilled in me the belief that resilience is not just about bouncing back from adversity but also about using setbacks as stepping stones for growth and personal development.

Today, I carry the lessons I learned during that time with me. Whenever I face obstacles or setbacks, I draw upon the resilience I cultivated during that period of my life. It serves as a reminder that with determination, a positive mindset, and a willingness to learn and adapt, I can overcome any challenge that comes my way.

My experience of facing academic challenges during University played a pivotal role in building my resilience. It taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of setbacks. By embracing resilience, I learned that even in the face of adversity, there is always an opportunity for growth and personal development.

Resilience is like a muscle that can be strengthened. In your opinion, what are 5 steps that someone can take to become more resilient? Please share a story or an example for each.

Certainly! Strengthening resilience is indeed like building a muscle; it requires intentional effort and practice. Here are five steps that someone can take to become more resilient, along with stories or examples to illustrate each step:

1. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Embrace failures as learning opportunities and believe in your ability to grow and adapt. For instance, imagine a budding entrepreneur who launched a startup that didn’t succeed as expected. Instead of giving up, they view it as a valuable learning experience. They identify the lessons learned, analyze what went wrong, and use that knowledge to refine their approach for future ventures. By adopting a growth mindset, they bounce back stronger and more resilient.
2. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who uplift you during challenging times. Consider the story of Sarah, a young professional who faced setbacks in her career. Instead of isolating herself, she actively sought out mentors, colleagues, and friends who could provide guidance and encouragement. Their support helped her maintain a positive outlook, gain new perspectives, and navigate obstacles with resilience.
3. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to maintain emotional and physical well-being. Take time to recharge, engage in activities that bring you joy, and practice mindfulness. Picture a busy executive named Alex who faces high-pressure situations regularly. To enhance their resilience, they prioritize self-care by incorporating regular exercise, meditation, and hobbies into their routine. These practices help them manage stress, stay balanced, and maintain a resilient mindset.
4. Set Realistic Goals and Take Action: Break larger challenges into smaller, achievable goals, and take consistent action towards them. Consider the story of Maria, a student preparing for a challenging exam. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, she breaks down her study material into manageable chunks. By setting realistic daily study goals and consistently working towards them, she builds a sense of accomplishment and resilience. Each small milestone becomes a stepping stone towards her larger objective.
5. Embrace Failure as Feedback: Rather than seeing failure as a reflection of personal worth, view it as feedback for growth and improvement. Think of a professional named James, who encountered setbacks in his career advancement. Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, he reframes his perspective. He recognizes that failures provide valuable insights and feedback. James uses these experiences to identify areas for development, seek further education or training, and ultimately build resilience by transforming setbacks into stepping stones towards success.

By cultivating a growth mindset, building a supportive network, practicing self-care, setting realistic goals, and embracing failure as feedback, individuals can take proactive steps to enhance their resilience. These stories demonstrate how adopting these steps can empower individuals to bounce back from setbacks, maintain a positive outlook, and continually grow in the face of challenges.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)

If I could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, it would be a movement centered around cultivating empathy and fostering meaningful connections between individuals.

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, it’s easy to get caught up in our own lives and overlook the struggles and experiences of others. The movement I envision would encourage people to actively seek understanding, compassion, and empathy for one another.

This movement would emphasize the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, bridging divides, and finding common ground. It would inspire individuals to step outside their comfort zones, engage in meaningful conversations, and build authentic connections with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs.

Imagine a world where people take the time to truly listen to one another, to understand each other’s struggles, hopes, and dreams. By fostering empathy, this movement would help break down barriers, reduce conflicts, and promote unity among communities.

Practical initiatives within this movement could include promoting dialogue circles, community events, and educational programs focused on empathy-building and understanding. It could involve creating safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable sharing their stories and experiences, fostering an environment of acceptance and support.

The benefits of such a movement would extend to various areas of society. It could help address issues such as social injustice, discrimination, and polarization. By promoting empathy and understanding, this movement would lead to greater harmony, cooperation, and a more inclusive society.

Ultimately, the power of this movement lies in its potential to create a ripple effect of positive change. When individuals truly understand and empathize with one another, they are more likely to act compassionately, support each other, and work together towards solutions that benefit all.

Inspiring a movement focused on cultivating empathy and fostering meaningful connections has the potential to bring about transformative change. By encouraging individuals to listen, understand, and empathize, we can create a world where people feel seen, heard, and valued. This movement would empower individuals to bridge divides, foster unity, and bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, ultimately building a more compassionate and harmonious society.

We are blessed that some very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them :-)

If given the chance, I would love to have a private meal with Elon Musk. His relentless pursuit of innovation, his ability to overcome setbacks, and his resilience in the face of criticism make him a fascinating figure to engage in conversation with.

Elon Musk has proven himself to be a visionary entrepreneur, pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability. Despite encountering numerous challenges along the way, he has consistently demonstrated resilience by persevering and adapting his approach.

Sitting down with Elon Musk would provide a unique opportunity to gain insights into his mindset and learn about the strategies he employs to navigate the complexities of his ventures. I would be eager to discuss his experiences with SpaceX, Tesla, and other groundbreaking projects, and to understand how he maintains his resilience in the face of immense pressure and scrutiny.

Moreover, Elon Musk’s ability to think outside the box and tackle ambitious goals is truly inspiring. Engaging in a private conversation with him would allow for a deeper exploration of his creative process, risk-taking mentality, and his views on the role of resilience in driving innovation and progress.

Furthermore, Elon Musk’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and his belief in the potential of technology to shape a better future are topics that would undoubtedly spark thought-provoking discussions. Exploring his perspectives on resilience in the context of sustainability and global challenges would provide valuable insights for individuals striving to make a positive impact in their own fields.

This would be such a captivating opportunity! His resilience, innovative mindset, and ability to disrupt industries make him a remarkable individual. Engaging in conversation with him would offer a chance to gain insights into his entrepreneurial journey, learn about the power of resilience in navigating complex landscapes, and explore his visionary perspectives on shaping a better world.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

I would love to exchange stories of resilience with every single one of you. Connect with me directly on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahfuzchowdhury/) or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mahfuzc/). I am just one DM away.

This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for joining us!

It was my pleasure. Thanks for giving me a platform to share my perspective on resilience!

About The Interviewer: Savio P. Clemente coaches cancer survivors to overcome the confusion and gain the clarity needed to get busy living in mind, body, and spirit. He inspires health and wellness seekers to find meaning in the “why” and cultivate resilience in their mindset. Savio is a Board Certified Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC, ACC), #1 best-selling author, syndicated columnist, podcaster, stage 3 cancer survivor, and founder of The Human Resolve LLC. He has interviewed notable celebrities and TV personalities and has been featured on Fox News, The Wrap, and has worked with Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, BuzzFeed, Food Network, WW and Bloomberg. Savio has been invited to cover numerous industry events throughout the U.S. and abroad. His mission is to provide clients, listeners, and viewers alike with tangible takeaways on how to lead a truly healthy, wealthy, and wise lifestyle.