Industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Naval Tata is one of India’s most influential business leaders. He is Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons and Chairman of Tata Trusts. Born in 1937, he is the great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata group, and was raised by his grandmother, Lady Nawazbai Tata.

He was inspired by his strong values, says Ratan Tata, and he still wants to establish himself among young and inspiring leaders today.

Here are the 12 most inspiring quotes by Sir Ratan Tata.

1. “I don’t believe in taking the right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right.”

💬 This quote reminds us that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about commitment and adaptability.

2. “Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going, because a straight line even in an ECG means we are not alive.”

💬 Powerful perspective on embracing life’s challenges.

3. “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.”

💬 Teamwork, vision, and sustainability in one line.

4. “None can destroy iron, but its own rust can. Likewise, none can destroy a person but his own mindset can.”

💬 Your thoughts shape your reality—guard them wisely.

5. “Take the stones people throw at you, and use them to build a monument.”

💬 Turn criticism and hardship into motivation.

6. “Business need to go beyond the interest of their companies to the communities they serve.”

💬 A reminder of the power of ethical entrepreneurship.

7. “Don’t be serious, enjoy life as it comes.”

💬 Balance is key—success and happiness can coexist.

8. “I have always been very confident and very upbeat about the future potential of India. I think it is a great country with great potential.”

💬 Visionary optimism from one of India’s greatest business minds.

9. “Power and wealth are not two of my main stakes.”

💬 True leadership lies in purpose, not possession.

10. “A person who is trying to copy others will be a successful follower, not a leader.”

💬 Authenticity is what sets real leaders apart.

11. “People still believe what they read is necessarily the truth.”

💬 A timely call to be discerning and well-informed.

12. “Take chances. There’s a difference between being bold and being foolish.”

💬 Calculated risk is the bridge between dreams and reality.