TheCconnects: Welcome, Mansoor Kodiyil, and thank you for joining us today. It’s a pleasure to have someone of your caliber, accomplished author, director, and life coach, with such a multifaceted journey. Let’s start at the beginning. Can you share with our readers a bit about your professional journey and how it led you to your current roles?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Thank you for having me. My journey has been a tapestry of experiences woven together by passion, resilience, and a commitment to learning. I started off in a modest setting, where my love for literature and storytelling was ignited at a very young age. I was always intrigued by the human experience and the complexities of emotions, which naturally drew me towards writing. Over the years, as I explored various facets of life, I found that my work as a career and life coach was a perfect extension of my passion for guiding others. Eventually, these experiences converged, leading me to the role of Director at Summit English Academy, where I have the privilege of nurturing young minds and inspiring a culture of continuous learning. Writing Forever and Always allowed me to express deeper truths about life, love, and sacrifice, and has now been recognized with the prestigious SAHITYA SPARSH nomination.
TheCconnects: That’s truly inspiring. Throughout your journey, who would you say has influenced you the most, and how did their influence shape your personal and professional outlook?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Influence can come from many sources, but if I had to pick one, it would be my mother. Her unwavering strength, empathy, and ability to navigate life’s challenges taught me the essence of resilience and compassion. Her life was a masterclass in balancing personal ambition with deep-rooted care for family and community. I’ve always admired how she managed to provide love and guidance even in the face of adversity. Professionally, her example instilled in me the belief that true success is measured not just by achievements, but by the positive impact we have on others. This belief is at the core of my work as a life coach and mentor.
TheCconnects: It’s remarkable how personal experiences shape our professional philosophies. Speaking of challenges, what are some of the biggest obstacles you’ve encountered in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Every journey has its fair share of challenges, and mine is no exception. One of the most significant hurdles was balancing the creative side of writing with the rigorous demands of running an educational institution and coaching individuals. There were times when self-doubt crept in, especially when I faced criticism or when projects didn’t go as planned. However, I learned that failure is not the opposite of success but a stepping stone towards it. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning allowed me to view every setback as an opportunity to improve and innovate. Additionally, maintaining a strong support system, both professionally and personally, was crucial. I surrounded myself with mentors, colleagues, and loved ones who helped me keep perspective and remain focused on my goals.
TheCconnects: That’s a valuable lesson for everyone, especially those starting out. Now, your book Forever and Always delves into the intricate dynamics of maternal love and societal pressures. What key lessons have you learned through your writing and professional experiences that you’d like to share with our readers?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Writing Forever and Always was a deeply personal journey. One of the most profound lessons I learned is that love, in its many forms, often comes with sacrifice and hard choices. The narrative not only explores the fierce and protective nature of maternal love but also exposes the vulnerability and strength that coexist within us. Professionally, I have learned that authenticity is paramount. In both literature and coaching, being true to oneself is essential. People resonate with real stories,stories of resilience, loss, and triumph. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a coach, or a writer, the authenticity of your journey is what connects you to your audience. I also believe that challenges, though daunting, are the catalysts for personal and professional growth.
TheCconnects: You’ve certainly given us much to reflect upon. Shifting focus a little, what do you see as the biggest challenge for brands in the digital space today, and how do you think your work addresses these challenges?
Mansoor Kodiyil: In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, one of the most significant challenges for brands is maintaining authenticity while navigating the vast sea of content. With so much information at our fingertips, it’s easy for messages to get lost or diluted. For brands, especially in education and personal development, it’s crucial to create content that not only informs but also resonates on a human level. At Summit English Academy and through my coaching, we focus on genuine storytelling and building trust. Whether it’s through inspirational narratives, insightful articles, or personal interactions, the goal is to create a connection that goes beyond the transactional. By focusing on the human aspects, empathy, resilience, and growth, we can help brands cut through the digital noise and establish meaningful relationships with their audience.
TheCconnects: That’s a refreshing perspective. Now, outside your professional world, what do you do in your free time? How do you balance the demands of your multiple roles?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Balancing multiple roles requires intentionality and self-care. I make it a point to set aside time for reflection and leisure. One of my favorite pastimes is reading, diving into diverse genres, from classic literature to contemporary non-fiction. This not only fuels my creativity but also provides a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life. I also enjoy nature walks and spending time with my family. These moments allow me to disconnect from work, reflect on my thoughts, and return with renewed energy and fresh ideas. In a way, these personal moments are just as important as professional commitments because they keep me grounded and remind me why I do what I do.
TheCconnects: It sounds like you have a well-rounded approach to life. With your extensive experience across different fields, what advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals in your industry?
Mansoor Kodiyil: My advice is simple yet profound: embrace your uniqueness and remain steadfast in your vision. The journey of entrepreneurship and professional development is filled with unpredictability. It’s essential to remain flexible and open to learning from every experience, whether it’s a success or a setback. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge you to think differently, and never lose sight of the core values that drive you. Also, always remember that your personal growth is as important as your professional achievements. Invest in self-care, continuously seek knowledge, and strive to create value not only for yourself but for those around you. Success, in my view, is a combination of personal fulfillment and the positive impact you have on your community.
TheCconnects: Your insights are both profound and actionable. Before we wrap up, could you share a little about any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Certainly! I’m currently working on a new project that aims to blend storytelling with interactive learning. It’s an initiative under Summit English Academy that will use narrative techniques to enhance critical thinking and creative problem-solving among students. The idea is to transform traditional education by integrating engaging stories that challenge learners to explore different perspectives. Additionally, I am in the early stages of another book project that will delve into the modern challenges of balancing personal identity with societal expectations, a theme that has become increasingly relevant in our digital age. I’m excited about both projects because they represent a fusion of my passions: literature, education, and personal development.
TheCconnects: Thank you, Mansoor, for sharing such thoughtful insights and experiences. Your journey is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and continuous learning. For our readers interested in delving deeper into your work, could you share where they might purchase Forever and Always or explore more about your projects?
Mansoor Kodiyil: Absolutely. Forever and Always is available on Amazon, and you can easily purchase it by following this link: Forever and Always on Amazon.
I believe the book will offer you a profound glimpse into the intricacies of maternal love, societal expectations, and the courage it takes to stand up for what matters most. Additionally, for updates on my upcoming projects and more about my work with Summit English Academy, feel free to visit our official website and follow our social media channels.
TheCconnects: That sounds incredibly exciting and innovative. Your ability to weave together different disciplines to create impactful experiences is truly commendable. Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave behind through your work?
Mansoor Kodiyil: At the heart of my work is a desire to inspire and empower. I hope to leave behind a legacy where individuals feel seen, heard, and capable of overcoming the challenges they face. Whether through my writing, my role as a director, or my coaching, I want to contribute to a world where authenticity and empathy drive change. I believe that every story matters, and every individual has the potential to make a difference. If my work encourages even a single person to pursue their dreams, embrace their vulnerabilities, and strive for growth, then I consider that a success.
TheCconnects: Thank you, Mansoor, for sharing such thoughtful insights and experiences. Your journey is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and continuous learning. We’re looking forward to seeing where your future endeavors take you, and we know your work will continue to inspire many.
Mansoor Kodiyil: Thank you so much for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share my story, and I hope our conversation resonates with your readers. Here’s to the power of stories and the endless journey of growth.
