Delhi might not be the first place that comes to mind for a thriving fitness scene, but that perception changed for me dramatically on a Sunday morning in March 2024.
Over 9,000 people, myself included, weren't there for street food or nightlife – we were ready to tackle the Devil's Circuit, Asia's largest obstacle course race.
Forget fancy drinks and dance floors. Here, the only refreshments were water and sweat, and the course was a muddy battleground filled with challenges.
This wasn't just about running a few kilometres. It was about scaling towering walls, conquering the intimidating "Heights of Hell" descent, and battling through the aptly named "Rumble Tumble."
The Devil's Circuit became the ultimate test of my well-rounded fitness. It pushed me not just physically, but mentally as well.
I’ve discussed my experience in detail in my Medium blog: My First Obstacle Course Experience
This experience offered lessons that drew parallels between the obstacle course and the world of entrepreneurship, especially recalling the early days of BYOB:
Just like the Devil's Circuit demanded a combination of strength, agility, and mental grit, building a successful company requires a well-rounded strategy.
It's not just about a catchy logo or clever marketing campaign. A holistic approach encompassing marketing, customer service, and product development is crucial for long-term success.
Lining up for the race, a mix of excitement and fear filled me. Similarly, when planning to start my business, I was walking into the unknown. There was a time when I even had to learn to code ( I am not even a developer 😀) to save our website from a hacking incident.
The Devil's Circuit reminded me that sometimes the biggest rewards come from embracing the scary parts. It fuels your entrepreneurial spirit to keep hustling and learning along the way.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the race was the incredible sense of community. Fellow runners offered encouragement, helping hands, and shared celebrations at every obstacle.
This camaraderie mirrored the importance of building a strong support network in entrepreneurship. Mentors, collaborators, and even competitors can offer valuable guidance and insights on your journey. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who believe in your vision and can help you navigate the inevitable challenges.
Crossing the finish line, covered in mud and scratches but exhilarated, was an unforgettable moment. The sense of accomplishment wasn't just about reaching the end, but about conquering each obstacle along the way which I was not even properly prepared for.
This resonated with my entrepreneurial journey. Along the way, there were big milestones, like new website launches and reaching international sales targets, etc. But celebrating the smaller victories is equally important. Every accomplishment, from getting a good response for a social media post to closing a big international client in the first meeting, keeps you motivated and pushes you forward.
The Devil's Circuit wouldn't be the same without the boundless energy of Adnan Adeeb. His infectious enthusiasm was a force to be reckoned with, and it's clear his passion is what drives this incredible event. Equally motivating was seeing participants in their 50s effortlessly overtaking me.
These experiences reminded me of the importance of finding inspiration in unexpected places. Mentorship, success stories, and even setbacks can all fuel your entrepreneurial drive.
The Devil's Circuit was an eye-opening experience, both physically and metaphorically. It pushed me beyond my limits, forced me to confront my anxieties, and ultimately, made me a stronger individual in business as well.
