The Most Expensive Things I Lost, Broked, and Found: Lessons Learned

As a seasoned tech professional, money is often a substantial factor in my life. Yet, some of the most memorable experiences come from the expensive things I've lost, broken, or had to turn in. These stories are not only amusing yet also carry valuable lessons. Let’s delve into these tales and see what I learned along the way.

1. The Car Dealership Watch Incident

I was at a car dealership, doing my usual work, when I noticed a gleaming watch on the restroom sink. Platinum Rolex, it so happened to be. The owner, presumably, must have just taken it off and left it on the sink. At first, temptation did cross my mind. However, my professional ethics prevailed, and I handed it over to the front desk. After all, such a watch could easily fetch 20k even in a used condition, and I knew someone would be eager to reclaim it.

My brother half-jokingly observed, "You should have kept it! It could have paid for your car!" That, I can assure you, was not the first time I had to remind myself of what integrity means.

2. The Bike I Lost

One of the most significant moments of vulnerability was when I lost my first bike, a 2011 Bajaj Pulsar 150cc. This bike was not just a gift; it represented my hard work and dedication. I had aced my ENT and community medicine exams and received it as a reward from my dad. The bike cost about 80-85k, and the joy I felt on that day simply can’t be described.

Although it was stolen just one year later, it was a painful experience. I was making my way down the stairs for my final-year practicals as a little girl doctor when my bike was nowhere to be seen. I hurried to an autorickshaw and went to my exams without giving it a second thought. When I came back from the exam, I searched the area but the bike was still not found. I immediately filed a report with the police and notified the insurance company.

The stress of the situation was hard to bear. My performance in the surgery exam was not at its best due to all the anxiety. However, my bike was found the following day about 3km away from where I had parked it. The thieves had only wanted to steal the petrol from the bike, breaking the fuel line to do so.

3. The KTM Duke 390 Incident

After the lost bike incident, I decided to get a new bike; a KTM Duke 390. I had saved up the salary from my internship, which was 1.8 lakhs, and my dad contributed an additional 45k. This bike served me faithfully for two years with no crashes. However, my adventurous spirit led me on a day leave to a hill station. While riding on a hairpin bend, I lost my balance and fell off the bike.

The last thing I remember is losing my balance, and the next is waking up with my leg stuck under the bike. Luckily, there was no one else around, so the situation could have been worse. I was wearing gloves but forgot to include them in the picture. If you're ever in such a situation, wearing protective gear is crucial.

Lessons Learned

Each of these experiences taught me something valuable:

Integrity is irreplaceable, no matter how tempting it may seem to take something valuable. Planning and preparation can prevent loss, whether of a bike or other possessions. Protective gear can save you from more severe injuries. Stress management is crucial, especially for doctors preparing for high-pressure situations.

In conclusion, these stories are not just anecdotes but valuable lessons. Learning from mistakes and experiences is the key to growth and success.