Progress on Wheels: The Unseen Role of Teachers in Our Lives

Life presents itself in many forms, but teachers remain constant—a guiding force steering us towards progress. The best educators, in my view, are reflective practitioners, motivators, and passionate mentors.

There have been numerous times when I felt like giving up—whether it was learning to drive, preparing for a competitive exam, or finding the confidence to seek a promotion. Fear of the unknown often holds us back. While it is said that teachers dispel the darkness of the mind, the wrong guidance can just as easily create lasting obstacles.




One of my most challenging learning experiences was driving. It began in India before I moved to Canada. I enrolled in a driving school recommended by a colleague, expecting structured training. However, after a few classes, my instructor disappeared. Despite paying in full, I had to track him down two months later just to complete the course. Although I managed to pass the exam, I still lacked the confidence to drive independently.

Fast forward to Canada, and the cycle repeated itself. My new instructor was more concerned with collecting fees than actually teaching. He lacked punctuality and patience, making my learning experience frustrating. I resigned myself to taking public transportation—until winter struck. No number of layers could shield me from the biting cold, and I realized I had to give driving another shot.

A number had been sitting in my phone for months before I finally made the call. My third instructor came with a solid reference, but my past experiences left me skeptical. To my surprise, he was punctual, dedicated, and, most importantly, used positive reinforcement to rebuild my confidence. Unlike my previous instructors, who only criticized, he understood my fears and worked patiently to counter them. Teaching a beginner is one thing, but undoing poor training is an entirely different challenge.





Despite the obstacles, I passed my test on a snowy morning, relying on tire tracks to navigate the roads. Many friends had bet I would need over 20 lessons, but I proved them wrong by succeeding with just 15. This victory was not just about obtaining a license; it was about regaining confidence and overcoming self-doubt. This experience reinforced an important lesson: true teaching isn’t about money—it’s about dedication, patience, and a genuine investment in a student’s growth. Many prioritize payment, but true mentors focus on results.

My appreciation for great teachers extends beyond school. Throughout my professional journey, I have encountered mentors who played a crucial role in my development. Early in my career, I struggled with speaking up in meetings. A senior colleague, noticing my hesitancy, encouraged me to prepare and present small portions of our projects. His consistent feedback and support gradually helped me develop the confidence to articulate my ideas effectively.

Later, when transitioning into leadership roles, I had another mentor who taught me the art of decision-making under pressure. His advice? “Take calculated risks, but own them. Even a wrong decision teaches you more than hesitation ever will.” That mindset shift made an enormous difference in how I approached problem-solving.

Similarly, I had a professor during my bachelor’s studies who introduced me to the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) framework. He insisted that structured goal-setting was essential not just for academics but for career progression and personal growth. Applying this method to tangible goals, like completing projects, was straightforward. However, using it to overcome intangible fears—such as self-doubt—was a challenge that took time and effort.

These mentors and teachers were not just people who passed through my life; they invested in my growth with no expectations of return. Their impact lingers long after the lessons are over.

Is it more important to give than to take? That’s the foundation of all meaningful relationships. We give in one place and receive in another. I don’t regularly communicate with all my past teachers, but I take moments to remember them and their influence. That reflection inspires me to pay it forward—to mentor someone else, even in small ways. A simple piece of guidance, encouragement, or shared knowledge can create a ripple effect, just as my teachers did for me.

True progress—whether in academics, careers, or personal development—is like driving forward. And behind every successful journey, there is always a great teacher guiding the way.




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