Jobs change values don’t | Lt. Col Nitin Mehta | TEDxChrist Delhi NCR

The speaker shares his life story, emphasizing that core values remain constant regardless of the uniform one wears. He began as a 21-year-old army officer, feeling the weight of national responsibility. Twenty-one years later, he transitioned to modeling and then acting, changing his professional "uniform" but striving to maintain his integrity. During his army days, two incidents profoundly shaped his outlook. The first involved an 18-year-old soldier who, despite exhaustion, reminded him of their duty to the nation. This solidified the importance of pushing through difficulties. The second incident highlighted the value of mutual support; he helped a colleague carrying excess weight, illustrating that it's about collective progress, not just asking for help. These experiences reinforced the army's motto: "Naam, Namak, Nishan" – standing for your name, loyalty, and country. Despite being a shy, "anti-social" individual who initially shied away from cameras, a chance encounter led him into modeling. He recounts a challenging ramp walk where he pushed himself to achieve a designer's vision, demonstrating that dedication and commitment, learned in the army, are crucial. Similarly, in acting, he embraced difficult stunts, refusing body doubles, to honor the principle that a job entrusted must be completed, no matter the obstacle. Looking towards the future, with the rise of AI and uncertain job markets, the speaker stresses that character and values are paramount. These are what truly define a person and their long-term success, far more than any position or title. He reiterates the importance of "Naam, Namak, Nishan" as guiding principles for loyalty, integrity, and honor. At 54, he continues to reinvent himself, attributing his journey to his unwavering values: dedication, integrity, and commitment. The ultimate message is to always keep your values, as they are the constant that will guide you through life's many changes.