It was a typical morning in Delhi, the kind that fuels sharp minds and big ambitions. I was sitting across from a key client, someone I’ve been guiding in their journey to build a luxury brand. We were deep in conversation, setting benchmarks and aspirations. The goal? To create something that radiates exclusivity and elegance—a brand people dream of owning.
Naturally, Mercedes-Benz became our reference point. After all, when you’re talking about luxury, it’s hard not to bring up the iconic three-pointed star. With the ease of someone who has coached many brands, I said, “Mercedes must be selling at least 100,000 cars annually in India.”
My client paused, looked at me thoughtfully, and said, “That’s an interesting figure, Arshad. Have you verified it?”
I smiled. “No, but come on—you see them everywhere! It’s obvious they’re selling at least that much.”
His smile widened, one of those smiles that says, “Let’s see where this goes.” He suggested we check.
The Moment of Truth
Out came my phone, and a quick search later, the reality hit me: Mercedes-Benz India had sold 17,408 cars in 2023—a record year for them. Fantastic for a luxury brand, but only a fraction of the number I had so confidently stated.
I looked up at my client, half embarrassed and half amused. He chuckled and said, “It seems your perception is shaped by your environment. You must be moving in circles where Mercedes is a common sight.”
Why This Moment Was About More Than Numbers
As a coach, I’m often seen as someone who has the answers, someone who can provide clarity and direction. But here I was, confronted with my own unchecked assumption. It was humbling, yes, but also deeply insightful.
The truth is, my role as a coach isn’t about always being right. It’s about guiding my clients to think critically, to challenge their own assumptions—and sometimes, mine too.
The Coach Who Learns
This wasn’t just a moment of error; it was a moment of growth. It reminded me why I love what I do. Coaching isn’t about projecting infallibility; it’s about creating a space where ideas can be tested, where we’re all learning together.
Here’s what I took away from this:
- Perception Shapes Reality—Until It’s Tested:
My assumption about Mercedes sales was based on what I see in my daily life. My client challenged me to look beyond my own perspective, a valuable reminder for all of us in leadership and decision-making roles.
- The Power of Humility:
As a coach, admitting when you’re wrong doesn’t diminish your credibility; it strengthens it. My client respected the fact that I could laugh at myself and take the lesson in stride.
- Coaching Is a Two-Way Street:
While I guide my clients, they often guide me too. This mutual exchange is what makes the process so enriching.
The Bigger Picture
That moment wasn’t just about correcting a number; it was about reinforcing what coaching is truly about. It’s about exploring, questioning, and evolving together. My role isn’t to have all the answers but to help my clients—and myself—uncover the right ones.
So, the next time you see a Mercedes-Benz on the road, think of this story. It’s a reminder that even those who guide others sometimes need a nudge themselves. And as a coach, those moments aren’t setbacks—they’re stepping stones.
Because in the end, it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress. And as I tell my clients, progress always starts with a willingness to learn—especially when the lesson comes from a humbling dose of reality
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