Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!

May 2, 2025

Okay a tie, a formal tucked in shirt and smooth talk -wow this guy is so professional that’s what I used to think about professionalism 10 years back. But you know what I discovered “just” dressing up is not being professional.

Going out with friends, I noticed my best friend always received compliments about her dressing style, and everyone was very polite to her. I was curious why she got all the compliments and respect. I also wished to be respected and get compliments. Who doesn’t love that? So I started observing and realized that the way she dressed and behaved made people respect and compliment her. I picked up that trait from her, which is a professional trait.

Few years later, just before I joined my graduation, I was working with my dad in his construction business. My life had a fixed routine—waking up early, getting to specific sites on time, dealing with labourers, engineers, suppliers… all kinds of people. I had to know how to take charge, how to behave, how to negotiate, and how to keep things respectful. And honestly, it all came to me just by trying to be a little like my dad.  It felt like emulating your movie star. Watching him do his thing—confident, calm, respectful—made me realize professionalism is more about how you act than how you look. Being in charge was what I learnt here.

Another big realization hit me while attending events and meetings with my mom. She has this vibe—when she talks, the whole room listens. It’s not just her words, it’s the way she notices little things, stays grateful, and brings positive energy wherever she goes. I remember thinking, “Wow, that’s what a real professional looks like.” That taught me professionalism isn’t just about being ‘on time’ or ‘polite,’ it’s also about the energy you carry and how you make others feel.

Growing up with this environment helped me understand and become the person who I am right now. At first I Really thought being professional just meant showing up well-dressed and doing your job. But now I know it’s about a lot more—like how you treat people, how reliable you are, and how you handle unexpected situations without freaking out. Being professional makes people feel comfortable when you are in the room.

Right now, I’ve picked up a few solid traits. I’m polite, I take initiative, I’m usually on time, and I value discipline. I’ve developed a balance between being focused and having a friendly, goofy nature, allowing me to get the work done while still maintaining a lighthearted approach. I also recognize when I need help and am not afraid to seek assistance when needed.

And when I think of myself 5 years ahead I want to be someone who’s known for never being lazy and always up for challenges. I want to be known for paying attention to every detail—whether it’s in a conversation or a project I’m working on. One trait I really admire, and want to develop, is the ability to thoroughly understand everything before jumping in. It’s something I’ve learned from my Nanaji, who always dives into the smallest details before taking any step. I also want to make sure I keep everything organized, so there’s never any last-minute chaos.

For me, professionalism isn’t a checklist anymore. It’s just how I want to show up every day—with intention, respect, and a bit of my own style. And honestly, I’m just getting started.

What do you think?What does professionalism mean to you?

Taher Murutaza Nasikwala

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