We often talk about lessons, tools, and experiences but behind every project manager, there are people who made a difference. It could be a mentor, a former boss, a colleague, or even someone outside of work who inspired your mindset and leadership style.
Have you ever wanted to thank someone who helped shape your journey? How many people come to mind? And among them, who truly inspired you to become the professional you are today? I’d love to hear your stories it’s a good reminder that we don’t grow alone.
Throughout my career, I’ve been lucky to have several mentors who guided me along the way. Early on, Sreedhar was someone who truly inspired me to excel and helped me carve out my career path. His support gave me the confidence to take on challenges I might have otherwise avoided.
What’s even more exciting is that I recently saw Sreedhar Bhamidipaty has joined this space too. It’s amazing to see him here and continue to connect with someone who played such a crucial role in shaping my professional growth.
Luis BrancoKiron BondaleRami KaibniAmanda Harris Laura Schofield I have limit to tag only 5 and I have added you all here.. I’d love to hear from some of you who inspired you early in your career? Maybe a mentor who saw your potential or someone whose leadership style stuck with you. Tag them if you can! Let’s celebrate the people behind our journeys. Saving Changes...
Luis BrancoCEO| Business Insight, Consultores de Gestão, LdªCarcavelos, Lisboa, Portugal
What a wonderful reflection, @Pavan Maddi — thank you for inviting us to pause for a moment and look back with gratitude.
Throughout my journey as a project manager, many people have left a deep mark on me — some I had the privilege of knowing personally, others who influenced me through their thinking and intellectual legacy.
Among the most meaningful influences, I must mention my father — a successful entrepreneur in the 1960s and 70s.
Over time, I came to realize that he embodied what Jim Collins would later describe as a Level 5 Leader: a rare combination of personal humility and professional will.
He taught me, by example, that true leadership is grounded in quiet strength, clear vision, and service to others.
I am also deeply grateful to the authors and thinkers who shaped the way I think and act:
- Tom Peters and Stephen Covey, who reinforced the centrality of values and principles in leadership;
- Harold Kerzner, Erick W. Larson, and Clifford F. Gray, who contributed to my methodological rigor and execution discipline;
- Michael Porter and Michael Hammer, for broadening my strategic thinking;
- W. Edwards Deming and Kaoru Ishikawa, whose approach to quality and continuous improvement continues to influence my work;
- Daniel Goleman, Daniel Pink, and David Rock, who deepened my understanding of emotional intelligence, motivation, and neuroscience in leadership;
- And of course, the creators of the Agile Manifesto — especially Alistair Cockburn and Kent Beck, who helped refocus project work on people, collaboration, and adaptability.
Finally, a special word of appreciation for our community here at ProjectManagement.com, where professionals like Kiron Bondale continue to generously share their knowledge and experience — it’s always a privilege to learn with you all.
This question is a powerful reminder that we don’t grow alone.
Each of us is the product of a rich network of influences, learning, and example.
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1 reply by Pavan Maddi
Apr 25, 2025 10:43 AM
Pavan Maddi
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Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt journey.
Your father’s example and the thinkers you’ve mentioned are truly inspiring. I agree our growth is deeply shaped by others. Your story is a great reminder to pause, reflect, and stay grateful for those who guided us.
What a wonderful reflection, @Pavan Maddi — thank you for inviting us to pause for a moment and look back with gratitude.
Throughout my journey as a project manager, many people have left a deep mark on me — some I had the privilege of knowing personally, others who influenced me through their thinking and intellectual legacy.
Among the most meaningful influences, I must mention my father — a successful entrepreneur in the 1960s and 70s.
Over time, I came to realize that he embodied what Jim Collins would later describe as a Level 5 Leader: a rare combination of personal humility and professional will.
He taught me, by example, that true leadership is grounded in quiet strength, clear vision, and service to others.
I am also deeply grateful to the authors and thinkers who shaped the way I think and act:
- Tom Peters and Stephen Covey, who reinforced the centrality of values and principles in leadership;
- Harold Kerzner, Erick W. Larson, and Clifford F. Gray, who contributed to my methodological rigor and execution discipline;
- Michael Porter and Michael Hammer, for broadening my strategic thinking;
- W. Edwards Deming and Kaoru Ishikawa, whose approach to quality and continuous improvement continues to influence my work;
- Daniel Goleman, Daniel Pink, and David Rock, who deepened my understanding of emotional intelligence, motivation, and neuroscience in leadership;
- And of course, the creators of the Agile Manifesto — especially Alistair Cockburn and Kent Beck, who helped refocus project work on people, collaboration, and adaptability.
Finally, a special word of appreciation for our community here at ProjectManagement.com, where professionals like Kiron Bondale continue to generously share their knowledge and experience — it’s always a privilege to learn with you all.
This question is a powerful reminder that we don’t grow alone.
Each of us is the product of a rich network of influences, learning, and example.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt journey.
Your father’s example and the thinkers you’ve mentioned are truly inspiring. I agree our growth is deeply shaped by others. Your story is a great reminder to pause, reflect, and stay grateful for those who guided us.
In the field of project management, I was inspired by a superior at one of my jobs. My boss guided me through the knowledge and culture of project management, allowed me to oversee projects in the department I worked in, and suggested I get certified. And today, I find it was a good guide and direction. Saving Changes...
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