Siddharth Maheshwari, a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Indian School of Business (ISB), reflects on the challenges he faced as a new manager, admitting that his actions led to the resignation of three capable employees. He emphasizes that while his education equipped him with problem-solving and strategic skills, it did not prepare him for the human aspects of management. Maheshwari shares specific instances where his failure to recognize employees' contributions and his defensiveness in disagreements resulted in lost talent. He learned that clear communication and open appreciation are vital for fostering a positive work environment. His insights resonate with many professionals, sparking discussions about the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Maheshwari concludes that true leadership skills are often acquired through experience and the mistakes made along the way.