Thirukkural verse (in Tamil script)
குடிசெய்வார்க்கு இல்லை பருவம் மடிசெய்து
மானம் கருதக் கெடும்
Meaning: There is no specific season (or time) for those who wish to uplift their community. Delay, driven by laziness, will lead to the loss of honor.
Startup application: This Thirukkural can be interpreted in the context of modern business and startup culture as emphasizing the importance of proactive leadership, timely action, and continuous effort. Here are some examples of how it can be applied:
- Seizing opportunities: In the fast-paced startup world, there’s no “perfect time” to innovate or expand. Leaders should be ready to act when opportunities arise.
- Continuous improvement: Successful startups don’t wait for ideal conditions to enhance their products or services. They constantly iterate and improve.
- Market responsiveness: Startups need to be agile and responsive to market changes, not waiting for “the right moment” to adapt.
- Work ethic: The Thirukkural warns against laziness, which in a startup context translates to maintaining a strong work ethic and avoiding procrastination.
- Company culture: Foster a culture of proactivity where team members are encouraged to take initiative rather than waiting for instructions.