Your Attitude Matters Part 2: Real Stories
Your Attitude Matters – Part 2
Real Stories of Power, Perception, and Presence of Mind
Opening
In mathematics, outcomes do not always depend on large numbers. Sometimes, a single well-placed step, a timely decision, or a change in approach can alter the entire solution.
Human behavior follows a similar logic.
Power does not always reside in position, wealth, or appearance. Often, it lies quietly in self-control, confidence, and awareness of one’s social reality. The following real-life incidents reveal how attitude — when combined with presence of mind — can challenge corruption, prejudice, and superficial judgments without raising a voice.
Story 1: A Farmer, a Bank Manager, and a Silent Warning
In a village branch of a reputed bank, a young farmer was repeatedly humiliated while applying for a tractor loan. The branch manager deliberately delayed the process, making him run from pillar to post for documents.
The reason was evident.
The manager knew that the farmer was neither influential nor capable of offering any commission. To maximize personal gain, the manager proposed a deal - the loan would be approved only if the farmer agreed to purchase a tractor along with a trailer, on which the manager would receive a higher cut.
The farmer needed only a tractor.
When he refused the unnecessary addition, the loan was rejected once again.
“Come next month,” the manager said casually. “I will take approval from my seniors.”
The farmer had tolerated the humiliation patiently for weeks. This time, something changed.
Looking directly into the manager’s eyes, calm yet firm, he said:
“Manager sahab, you seem to be forgetting something. Your way home passes through my village. I will be waiting eagerly for your arrival today — and would like to welcome you wholeheartedly.”
The farmer smiled.
The manager did not.
The sudden shift - confidence replacing helplessness - alarmed the corrupt officer. Without further delay, the loan papers were signed. Not only for this farmer, but also for several other pending cases.
Sometimes, attitude exposes fear hidden behind authority.
Story 2: Judged by Appearance, Defeated by Negotiation (1990)
Around 1990, a friend of mine from a typical village background arrived at a city wedding lodge to book a marriage hall. At that time, marriage halls were few and highly in demand.
It was winter.
He was wrapped in an old blanket. His farmer uncle accompanied him, dressed in worn-out clothes. At the gate, the security guard stopped them, assuming they did not belong there.
After repeated requests, they were allowed to meet the manager.
The manager smiled politely - the kind of smile reserved for people not taken seriously. Seeing their appearance and background, he assumed limited capacity and quoted what he believed was the lowest possible price.
My friend pleaded respectfully:
“Sir, we are poor people, but we wish to book your lodge if you can offer a reasonable rate.”
The uncle, shocked by the quoted amount, stepped out silently.
But my friend - Ravindra (name changed) - stayed.
He negotiated calmly, firmly, and persistently. Without references, without anger, without revealing his background, he managed to reduce the price further. A booking amount was paid, and the deal was almost finalized.
Moments later, a local leader entered the lodge and recognized Ravindra. Stopping to talk, he casually introduced him to the manager:
“These people are big landowners.”
The manager froze.
The deal was completed - at a price far lower than initially imagined.
Years later, Ravindra would go on to become a police officer in Delhi.
Appearances mislead. Attitude negotiates reality.
Reflections
These stories reveal uncomfortable truths:
- Authority often exploits perceived helplessness
- Society judges capacity by appearance
- Silence is mistaken for weakness
Yet they also show that:
- Confidence unsettles corruption
- Awareness shifts power dynamics
- Calm assertion leaves lasting impact
Attitude, when informed and controlled, becomes a non-violent instrument of justice.
Key Takeaways
- Power is not always institutional; it is often psychological
- Presence of mind can dismantle unfair systems
- Respect is negotiated through behavior, not background
- Calm confidence is more effective than confrontation
- Never underestimate the silent strength of self-awareness
Strong Disclaimer
These narratives are shared strictly for educational and reflective purposes. They do not promote intimidation, threat, misuse of influence, or unethical pressure.
The intent is to highlight behavioral dynamics, power perception, and human decision-making under social and economic stress. Readers are encouraged to respond to real-life situations lawfully, ethically, and responsibly.
Context, intent, and emotional intelligence remain critical.
From the Desk of the Author
As an educator and observer of human behavior, I believe real learning occurs where textbooks end and life begins. Villages, banks, marriage halls, and public offices become classrooms when viewed with awareness.
Mathematics trains the mind to detect patterns. Life demands that we recognize them.
At Mathivation HUB, we explore both.
An Honest Question to Readers
Have you ever been judged by appearance or position - and how did your attitude change the outcome?
Reflect before you answer.
Signature
Rakesh Kushwaha
Educator | Writer | Founder – Mathivation HUB
Where Mathematics Meets Mindset
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