Cricket to Product Management: Lessons in Discipline and Resilience from an Athlete's Journey
Key Takeaways for Product Managers from the Professional Life of an Athlete.
It was a lazy afternoon at the Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru, yet a small portion of this iconic venue was alive with the day's hustle. In the restaurant and the adjoining lounge, players and club members moved in a rhythm of leisure and laughter, marking the kind of camaraderie unique to sports teams. Amidst this backdrop, I awaited Bharat Chipli, a seasoned cricketer with stints in the IPL and Ranji Trophy, for what promised to be an enlightening conversation. The phone rang, and on the other end, Bharat's voice carried an apology for a slight delay, setting our meeting back by ten minutes.
As I took in the scene before me—players engaging in light-hearted banter, reflecting on recent games, and sharing laughs—I couldn't help but appreciate the sheer normalcy of these moments in the lives of individuals who, on the field, transform into extraordinary athletes. Bharat's arrival, marked by a courteous inquiry about lunch, seamlessly wove into the afternoon's laid-back vibe.
As we concluded our meal and settled into the heart of our conversation, I found myself engrossed in Bharat's insights. From discussing early career challenges to the importance of mental resilience and adaptability, the conversation was not just about cricket but about the mindset of an athlete. The parallels between the worlds of sports and product management began to emerge, highlighting the universal themes of perseverance, strategic thinking, and continuous learning.
Bharat's journey, punctuated with both achievements and setbacks, offered a fascinating perspective on the mental and physical rigor of professional sports. This dialogue not only shed light on the life of an accomplished athlete but also served as a foundation for understanding how these principles apply beyond the cricket field, particularly in the dynamic field of product management. As we delved deeper, the intertwining paths of sporting excellence and product innovation unfolded, revealing lessons in leadership, team dynamics, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Excerpts from our conversation:
SM: How did your cricketing journey begin, and what were the early challenges you faced, especially when playing in the fourth division cricket at such a young age?
BC: It all started in the BTM layout of Bangalore, where my cricketing passion was nurtured from a young age. At 13, I was introduced to the competitive world of cricket through a camp run by Anantram, which was my first serious encounter with leather ball cricket. Shortly after, I joined Diamond Cricket Club, stepping into the fourth division cricket at just 14. The challenge of facing senior cricketers and adapting to the pace and bounce they generated was significant. However, this experience was crucial in developing my skills as a top-order batsman, a role I've maintained throughout my career.
Takeaway for PMs: The narrative of an athlete's progression, from early challenges to mastering their sport, parallels the journey product managers should embark on. Engaging with a variety of challenging projects from the onset can develop a comprehensive skill set and a resilient mindset. Just as athletes benefit from competing at higher levels early in their careers, product managers can benefit from varied experiences to navigate complex market dynamics and lead innovative projects successfully. This approach not only enhances adaptability but also prepares one for leadership roles.
SM: Can you describe the nature and intensity of your coaching and training sessions during your early cricketing days?
BC: The training camp I attended was where I picked up most of my batting techniques. The sessions weren't particularly intense; much of our learning was based on the trial and error method. We used our failures from matches as learning opportunities, especially if we were dismissed attempting a certain shot, which we would then focus on improving during practice. The development of our batting skills and stroke play evolved with each game, largely through self-learning. It was a journey of discovery, without the aid of sophisticated equipment or advanced coaching techniques. Essentially, it boiled down to how we assimilated skills and strategized our approach to the game.
Take away for PMs: The journey of an athlete, from early training days to mastering the complexities of their sport, underscores several key takeaways for product managers. This narrative emphasizes the importance of adapting based on real-world experiences and the value of an iterative approach to both personal and product development. Learning from successes and failures, much like an athlete refines their technique through continuous practice and feedback, highlights the significance of resilience and flexibility. Athletes' dedication to self-improvement and their ability to strategize and adjust based on performance feedback mirror the skills product managers need to innovate and lead successful projects. Thus, product managers can draw inspiration from the disciplined, feedback-driven approach of athletes, applying these lessons to foster growth, enhance product strategies, and navigate the challenges of the market with agility and insight.
SM: Many talented young cricketers are spotted in school cricket. Was this the case for you, and how did you come to specialize in batting?
BC: Unfortunately, my school didn’t have a cricket team, which led me to explore other avenues to pursue my passion for cricket. I started attending camps, one of which was a summer camp where I was coached by Jaswanth. He recognized my potential and recommended me to join the Swastik Union club. Initially, I both batted and bowled, but it was at the summer camp where my batting skills were noticed. Based on that, I was encouraged to focus more on batting, shaping the direction of my cricketing journey.
Takeaway for PMs: The journey of an athlete finding their niche outside traditional pathways underscores a vital strategy for product managers: the significance of exploring unconventional routes and focusing on inherent strengths. Similar to how athletes seek specialized training and opportunities to refine their skills, product managers must proactively engage with diverse experiences and solicit feedback to identify and bolster their core competencies. This approach stresses the value of adaptability, ongoing learning, and strategic focus on areas with the highest potential for impact, driving innovation and leading to success in the competitive landscape of product management.
SM: Can you discuss the importance of identifying and concentrating on your strengths, and how did this approach benefit your cricketing career?
BC: Recognizing and focusing on one's strengths is crucial. When we were younger, having guidance to identify those strengths made a significant difference. It’s far more beneficial to excel in one area than to spread oneself too thin across multiple areas without mastering any. This focus on my batting, for instance, led to considerable improvements in my performance. I began scoring a lot more runs, which contributed to my club, Jawans, moving up from the 4th to the 3rd division. My standout performance in the 3rd division allowed me to skip the 2nd division entirely, jumping directly to the 1st division. This progression was a direct result of honing in on my batting skills.
Takeaway for PMs: The narrative of an athlete's deliberate focus on their inherent strengths illustrates a powerful principle for product managers: the essence of understanding and leveraging one’s core skills. Just as targeted improvement in a specific area led to remarkable achievements and advancement in the athlete's career, product managers should also aim to identify and cultivate their unique competencies. This strategy not only enhances personal performance but also significantly contributes to the team and product success. Embracing a focused approach rather than attempting to manage multiple areas superficially can lead to superior outcomes, showcasing the impact of specialization and depth over breadth in the competitive field of product management.
SM: At what age did you advance to the 1st division, and can you share how your performance at this level and beyond shaped your career?
BC: By the age of 17, I had made my mark in the 1st division, which was a pivotal moment in my cricketing journey. My time in the under-19 zonal level was particularly impactful, as I scored three centuries in five two-day matches. This performance not only highlighted my abilities but also led to my selection for the under-19 state team. However, my journey faced a setback during the state under-19 tournament, where I struggled with form and didn’t manage to score much, eventually resulting in my being dropped from the team.
Takeaway for PMs: The ups and downs of an athlete’s path to professional success offer valuable insights for product managers. Achieving early success, such as significant accomplishments in high-pressure situations, can open doors to further opportunities and recognition. Yet, facing challenges and setbacks, like underperforming at critical moments, is also part of the journey. These experiences teach resilience and the importance of continuously learning and adapting. For product managers, this underscores the need to celebrate successes while also embracing failures as opportunities for growth, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence in their careers.
SM: Can you pinpoint what contributed to the difficulties you faced at the state level? Was it a matter of self-belief or something else?
BC: Self-belief has always been a constant for me. In professional sports, backing yourself and having confidence in your abilities is crucial; without it, you won't last long. However, I think the root of my struggle to score runs at the state level was primarily due to my lack of physical strength.
Takeaway for PMs: The athlete's acknowledgment of the importance of self-belief and the identification of physical strength as a limiting factor offer key lessons for product managers. Just as athletes must have unwavering confidence in their abilities and recognize their areas of improvement, product managers need to maintain a strong belief in their vision and strategy while being acutely aware of their weaknesses or gaps in their team's capabilities. This scenario underscores the necessity for continuous self-assessment and the willingness to address and bolster areas needing development, ensuring resilience and the capacity to overcome challenges
SM: How did strength training fit into your regimen, and in your opinion, what are the key attributes of a professional sportsperson?
BC: Looking back, strength training wasn't emphasized as much in our routine as it is today. Our focus was more on technical skills, spending long hours batting in the nets and working on our weaknesses. The mentorship we received was heavily geared towards technique rather than physical conditioning. We relied on rigorous practice to refine our skills. As for the defining attributes of a professional sportsperson, skill development tops the list. Talent alone isn't enough; it demands discipline, hard work, and a relentless dedication to improving one's craft. Passion for the sport is equally important, as it fuels the drive to excel and overcome challenges.
Takeaway for PMs: The athlete's balanced focus on technical skills and the essential attributes of discipline, hard work, and passion highlight a parallel for product managers. Just as athletes dedicate themselves to mastering their craft, product managers must commit to continuous learning and skill development within their domain. Recognizing and addressing gaps, whether in technical knowledge or team capabilities, is crucial. Additionally, the passion for one's product and the problems it solves drives innovation and resilience. This approach fosters a culture of excellence and adaptability, crucial for navigating the complexities of product development and market demands.
SM: Does the pressure to learn quickly and perform early on in your career affect you?
BC: Personally, I didn't feel much pressure, though it varies from person to person. The reality is that mastering techniques swiftly can significantly accelerate your inclusion in the game. If you're on the slower side of the learning curve, it naturally takes longer to be drafted into the side. And honestly, who prefers just practicing over playing actual matches? The key is maintaining focus, being open to learning, and diligently practicing techniques.
Takeaway for PMs: The athlete's perspective on learning and performance emphasizes a crucial insight for product managers: the speed of learning can significantly influence career progression. Just as athletes who quickly master their techniques advance faster in their careers, product managers who rapidly acquire new skills and adapt to market changes can lead their teams to success more efficiently. It highlights the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning, open-mindedness, and focused practice within product management teams. This approach not only accelerates personal growth but also enhances team performance and product innovation, underscoring the value of adaptability and proactiveness in a competitive landscape.
SM: Once you've mastered the necessary skills, does the game become easier?
BC: Mastering skills is just the beginning; learning is an ongoing journey. For instance, during my time with the state under-19 team in Vishakapatanam, despite previously scoring runs frequently, I struggled significantly. It was my first experience on a turf wicket with a lush green outfield, where the ball hardly traveled. Lacking the physical strength, trying to hit the ball harder only led to my dismissal. After failing in several matches, I was demoted back to division cricket, where I had to re-learn how to adapt my game to slow outfields and maintain composure under pressure. It was through practicing hitting the ball harder in the nets that I eventually managed to overcome these challenges.
Takeaway for PMs: This narrative underscores a vital lesson for product managers: the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. Just as athletes face new challenges that require them to adapt and enhance their skills, product managers must remain agile, ready to learn and adjust strategies in response to market changes or project setbacks. This story highlights the need for resilience, the willingness to re-evaluate and refine approaches, and the determination to persevere through difficulties. Success in product management, much like in sports, is not just about mastering a set of skills but continuously evolving and adapting those skills to meet new challenges.
SM: How important is it to play to your strengths and make strategic decisions in the game, and how do you handle the inevitability of making mistakes?
BC: Absolutely, playing to one's strengths and making informed decisions on the field is crucial. When I was part of the under-22 state team, my ability to distinguish which balls to engage with and which to ignore led to scoring big centuries. This level of judgment didn't come easily; it was the result of years of dedicated practice focused on decision-making skills. Mastery in this area underscores the need for patience and discipline. On the other hand, mistakes, such as playing a loose shot, often result from a moment of indecision, a common dilemma where a batsman is unsure whether to play aggressively or defensively. Even though some deliveries are simply outstanding and leave you no choice but to appreciate them as you exit the field, many dismissals are avoidable and stem from a lapse in making the right choice at the right moment.
Takeaway for PMs: The athlete's approach to playing to their strengths and the meticulous development of decision-making skills offer profound insights for product managers. Just as strategic decisions and understanding when to act are pivotal in cricket, product managers must also leverage their strengths and carefully assess situations to make informed choices. The importance of patience, discipline, and continuous improvement in refining these decision-making abilities cannot be overstated. Additionally, acknowledging and learning from mistakes is integral to growth. Product managers should recognize that indecision can lead to missed opportunities or flawed product outcomes, emphasizing the need for clarity and conviction in their strategic directions. This parallels the athlete's journey of embracing both successes and learning moments to achieve excellence.
SM: In moments of indecision on the field, how do you resolve the dilemma between taking an aggressive stance and playing it safe?
BC: The solution lies in clarity and commitment. If I decide to take on the bowler, I commit fully to that decision—my mindset leads, and my actions follow. Any hint of self-doubt means I choose the safer route and defend. Opportunities to score will come again, but only if you're still in the game. The key is to remain where the action is; after all, you can't score runs from the sidelines. Achieving this level of decisiveness isn’t straightforward—it requires rigorous practice and a sharp mental focus to not only make these decisions but also to trust them.
Takeaway for PMs: This principle of decisive action, guided by clarity and commitment, holds valuable lessons for product managers. Just like in cricket, where a player must quickly decide whether to attack or defend based on their judgment and confidence, product managers face similar decisions in the development and launch of products. The lesson here is the importance of decisive action based on informed judgment and the courage to follow through with your decisions. Hesitation or second-guessing can undermine success, just as self-doubt on the cricket field can lead to missed opportunities or mistakes. Cultivating a mindset of clarity, commitment, and resilience is essential, along with the understanding that not every decision will be perfect but taking informed, confident action is key to moving forward and achieving success.
SM: Was there ever a moment in your career when you considered leaving professional cricket behind?
BC: Yes, at 21, right after the cricket season ended with no immediate matches on the horizon, I stepped away from the game and entered the corporate world, joining a company called AXA. For 8 months, I adapted to a lifestyle far removed from the rigorous demands of cricket, and I was beginning to settle into this new routine. However, it was around this time that I received an offer to join Canara Bank and play for their cricket team. Initially hesitant, I was persuaded by my father and Vijay Bharadwaj, a former Indian cricketer, to accept the offer. They reminded me of the strong foundation I had built in cricket and questioned why I would want to abandon it. Their belief in my potential and my father’s unwavering support since my early days—driving me to practice and games—played a significant role in my decision. Eventually, in 2004, I took up the offer with Canara Bank and found myself back in the cricketing fray.
Takeaway for PMs: This story of contemplating a shift away from one’s passion, only to be drawn back in, resonates deeply with the career paths of many product managers. It highlights the importance of resilience and the willingness to reconsider decisions when new opportunities arise. Product managers might face moments of doubt or consider pivoting to entirely different career paths. However, the reminder to reflect on one’s foundational skills and the progress made can be a powerful motivator to persevere. The support system—mentors, peers, or family—plays a crucial role in navigating these crossroads, emphasizing the value of external perspectives in reaffirming one’s commitment to their chosen path. This narrative underscores the journey of navigating career uncertainties with resilience, guided by a clear understanding of one’s abilities and the support of a strong network.
SM: Can you share your journey through selection for the Ranji team, facing setbacks like injuries and being dropped, and how you dealt with these challenges?
BC: I was on the brink of joining the Ranji team in 2004, but a bout of typhoid right before selections cost me the season—a devastating blow. However, I chose not to dwell on the past and focused on enjoying the game, which led to my debut in 2005 against Railways, where I opened for Karnataka. Despite this achievement, I faced another setback in 2008-2009 when I was dropped from the team. Rather than viewing this as a bitter experience, I saw it as a reminder of the competition and the need for continuous performance. This period taught me the importance of intense training and sharp focus. Making a comeback two years later reinforced the idea that entering and re-entering the team both demand high levels of effort. It's a cycle of practice, perform, and promote that never ends.
Takeaway for PMs: The experiences of overcoming illness, making a debut, and facing subsequent setbacks underscore a critical lesson for product managers: the journey is fraught with challenges, but perseverance and adaptability are key. Just as a player must accept and learn from being sidelined, understanding that continuous improvement is necessary to stay ahead, product managers should view failures and setbacks as opportunities for growth. The cycle of practice, perform, and promote in sports mirrors the iterative process of developing, launching, and refining products in product management. The need for constant effort, learning from experiences, and staying focused on goals, despite obstacles, is crucial for sustained success in any competitive field.
SM: The saying goes, "A team that stays together wins together." How much do you believe in this?
BC: The sentiment rings true in the context of creating a cohesive team environment. A sense of belonging among team members is crucial. Teams that cultivate a strong culture of unity and collaboration tend to perform better. This success stems from each member's understanding of their teammates' strengths and weaknesses, fostering a supportive environment. When the team's collective goal becomes more significant than any individual's ambitions, such teams invariably outperform others. The philosophy of prioritizing the team's cause over personal glory is a key driver of superior performance.
Takeaway for PMs: The principle of team cohesion leading to success is highly relevant for product managers. Building a culture where every team member feels valued and understood is foundational to achieving common goals. Product managers should focus on fostering environments that encourage collaboration, mutual understanding, and a shared vision. Recognizing and leveraging each team member's unique strengths while compensating for weaknesses can create a synergistic effect, propelling the team toward its objectives. Emphasizing the team's collective mission over individual achievements is crucial for cultivating a successful, high-performing team.
SM: How do you manage criticism, and what's your approach to dealing with it?
BC: Facing criticism can be disheartening, but it's part of the game. Every player is aware of their own weaknesses; critics simply make these issues more public. My strategy is to dive back into practice and focus on preparing for the next game. Dwelling on criticism is unproductive. Giving it more attention only amplifies its impact. However, the critical part is to learn from the mistakes highlighted by such critiques and ensure they are not repeated. This mindset of using criticism as a tool for improvement rather than a source of discouragement is vital.
Takeaway for PMs: The approach to handling criticism shared here is immensely valuable for product managers. Criticism, while often tough to hear, sheds light on potential areas for improvement. The key is not to linger on the negative feedback but to use it constructively to enhance one's work and personal growth. Product managers should embrace criticism as an opportunity to refine their products and strategies. Focusing on actionable insights from feedback and preventing recurrent issues can significantly contribute to both personal development and the product's success. This attitude towards criticism as a catalyst for improvement is essential for navigating the complexities of product management effectively.
SM: Do you actively seek out advice and also offer it to others when needed?
BC: Absolutely, I believe in being proactive about seeking advice, especially from more experienced seniors and coaches. Being inquisitive is crucial because advice isn't just offered unsolicited. When it comes to sharing advice, especially during a match, if I notice a junior player struggling or making errors, I make it a point to approach them with some guidance. However, off the field, I expect them to take the initiative to seek advice, demonstrating their eagerness to learn and grow. The exchange of advice is very much context-dependent.
Takeaway for PMs: The exchange of advice, both seeking and giving, as described, holds a valuable lesson for product managers. Being proactive in seeking guidance from more experienced colleagues can uncover insights and foster personal growth. Similarly, offering advice or feedback to team members can contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and learning. This dynamic not only enhances individual skills but also strengthens team collaboration. Encouraging a culture where team members feel comfortable seeking and sharing advice can drive innovation and improve overall team performance, underscoring the importance of open communication and mutual support in product management.
SM: What guidance would you offer to young players aspiring to reach professional levels?
BC: My key piece of advice would be to keep things simple. It's easy to get overwhelmed by trying to tackle too many aspects of the game simultaneously. Focus on mastering one area before moving on to the next. Equally important is maintaining a strong sense of self-belief. Trusting in your ability to overcome any challenge will not only keep you grounded but also propel you forward in your career. This mindset is fundamental to achieving and sustaining success in the highly competitive world of sports.
Takeaway for PMs: The advice of focusing on simplicity and cultivating self-belief is equally applicable to product managers. In a field where complexity and rapid change are the norms, prioritizing and mastering one area at a time can lead to more effective outcomes. Likewise, confidence in one's abilities to navigate challenges is crucial. This approach ensures that product managers can maintain clarity of purpose and direction, even when faced with the inevitable hurdles of product development and management. Embracing these principles can help product managers achieve their goals and lead their teams to success.
SM: Thank you, Bharat. It was a pleasure talking to you and learning from your experiences.
BC: You're welcome, and I wish you all the best in your endeavors.