What is my greatest passion in my work?
My greatest passion is empowering people to rediscover their purpose and dignity through meaningful work. For over 32 years in the social and development sector, I have worked to uplift communities, strengthen livelihoods, and build sustainable systems. Today, my focus has shifted to retired professionals, helping them begin their second innings with confidence and leadership. I strongly believe experience should never go waste. Passion, if nurtured, can create impact at any age.
What is my greatest fear?
My greatest fear is seeing talented and experienced people lose confidence in themselves after retirement. Society often sidelines people once they cross a certain age, which I feel is unfair. Experience is one of the most valuable assets a person carries. I fear wasted wisdom more than failure. That is why I work to create opportunities for second careers.
What do I love most about my work?
What I love most is connecting with people and helping them discover new possibilities in life. Every interaction gives me a chance to inspire someone to start again. Seeing retired professionals regain confidence and financial independence gives me immense satisfaction. It is not just about jobs; it is about restoring purpose. That transformation excites me every day.
What is my greatest pitfall?
My greatest pitfall is that I often invest too much emotionally in the people and projects I work with. Sometimes I expect the same level of commitment from others, which can lead to disappointment. But over the years, I have learned patience and acceptance. Every challenge has made me stronger. It has taught me resilience.
What does the statement “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
To me, it means that retirement is only from a job, never from purpose. Passion is timeless—it does not age with us. It evolves and often becomes stronger with experience. I believe the second innings of life can be more impactful than the first. Passion keeps us alive, relevant, and valuable.
What would I like to change about myself?
I would like to become more selective with where I invest my time and energy. In the past, I often stretched myself too thin trying to solve too many problems. Now I am learning to focus on areas where I can create the most meaningful impact. Prioritization is something I continue to improve. Growth never stops.
What is my greatest professional achievement so far?
One of my greatest achievements has been building and scaling rural development programs across India, impacting thousands of farmers, women, and youth. I have served in leadership positions, including CEO at KRIBHCO’s Gramin Vikas Trust and Senior Director at Yuva Parivartan. I have worked across 17 states on sustainable development initiatives. But beyond titles, my greatest achievement is seeing lives transformed. Real impact is my true measure of success.
Where would I most like to live and work?
I would like to live and work where my experience can create the greatest impact – whether in rural India, urban India, or even globally. Geography matters less to me than purpose. I feel most alive when working among people who want change. At present, New Delhi is my base, but my vision is Pan-India. My work goes where it is needed.
What is my most distinctive characteristic?
My ability to connect deeply with people across backgrounds is my most distinctive characteristic. Whether it is farmers, corporates, or retired professionals, I understand people’s aspirations and challenges. I combine empathy with strategy. This helps me build trust quickly. Trust has been my strongest asset.
What is the place outside my home where I get my best ideas?
I get my best ideas while traveling and observing people. Railway stations, village fields, and roadside tea stalls have often inspired me. These are places where real life unfolds. Listening to people’s struggles and dreams gives me clarity. Life itself is my biggest classroom.
Which books have influenced my life and how?
Books on leadership, spirituality, and rural transformation have deeply influenced me. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” taught me discipline and vision. Swami Vivekananda’s teachings inspired me to serve humanity. Books on Gandhian philosophy shaped my understanding of grassroots development. They all reinforced one idea: service is leadership.
“You Only Die Once” – what music would I like to listen to on my last day?
I would like to listen to soulful music that reflects peace, gratitude, and purpose. Songs like “Channa Mereya” and spiritual bhajans would resonate with me. Music that reminds me of life’s journey would be ideal. I would want to feel fulfilled, not regretful. Music should celebrate the journey.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
My hero in fiction is Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. He represents courage, integrity, and standing for what is right. Those values resonate with me deeply. He teaches us to lead with principles. That inspires me.
Who are my real-life heroes and heroines?
My real-life heroes are Swami Vivekananda, Dr. Verghese Kurien, and Mahatma Gandhi. Their dedication to service, transformation, and nation-building inspires me. I have always admired leaders who create systems for people’s empowerment. Their lives remind me that one person can change millions of lives. That keeps me motivated.
Which film would I recommend everyone to watch at least once in their lifetime?
I would recommend Swades. It beautifully captures the importance of returning to one’s roots and serving society. It shows that real progress lies in collective upliftment. The film reflects many values I have lived by. It is powerful and inspiring.
What does the statement “I am the storyteller of my own life” mean to me?
It means I am responsible for shaping my journey, my choices, and my legacy. Life may present challenges, but how we respond defines our story. I do not let circumstances dictate my purpose. Every chapter of my life has been intentional. And my story is still being written.
What role do stories play in my life and work?
Stories are powerful tools of inspiration and learning. In development work, every life carries a story of struggle and resilience. These stories have shaped my understanding of humanity. They also help me motivate others. Stories connect hearts before strategies connect minds.
Which project am I most looking forward to?
I am most excited about expanding my platform, Second Innings Leadership, to reach more retired professionals across India. My goal is to create a nationwide movement where experience meets opportunity. Alongside this, I am helping professionals join Kotak Mahindra Life as Senior Executive Advisors with work-from-home flexibility. This is not just employment; it is empowerment. I see immense potential here.
Who would I like Peter to invite to tell their Passion Never Retires story?
I would love Peter to invite retired teachers, army veterans, social workers, and corporate leaders who have reinvented themselves after retirement. Their journeys can inspire millions. The world needs more stories of resilience and reinvention. These voices matter. Their passion deserves to be heard.
How can people contact me?
Website: https://www.secondinningsleadership.in/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shiv-shanker-singh-227b1743
Mobile/WhatsApp: +91 7014261157
Email: careers@secondinningsleadership.in