From a woman's perspective, I have not faced any discrimination so far (I will not allow it).

And as always I have let my work speak for itself. I strongly believe that actions speak louder than words. I lead from the front and I believe that an ideal leader leads by example. Most of all I love to mentor, coach and guide other talented colleagues -- especially women -- as I think that they need all the support that they can get!

What is success for me as a woman? In my view success is not just making a lot of money or having a fancy title. It is earning respect, trust and credibility and in being the best at what you do. There's no shortcut to achieving this, except through sheer hard work, and lots of talent coupled with competence.

A holistic definition of what success looks like would also include: a wonderful, joyous family life, good health and a strong connection with my inner spirit and the universe at large.

I also believe that any form of success is meaningless unless you have someone to share it with who is genuinely proud and joyous about your achievements. For example, without my husband's and parents' unconditional love and support, I wouldn't have been in a frame of mind to create and build my success story, nor would I be having this sense of fulfillment today.

Whether it's a man or a woman, "success" emanates from very powerful positive thinking and a can-do attitude that ensure everything -- career, family relationships and friends -- bring us happiness and joy.

Samhita T Rao
Managing Director, Grass Roots India