“Knowing what you don't want is sometimes more important than knowing exactly what you want.”
There are only a few hoteliers who have the talent to transform a property into a brand. The hospitality industry holds the greatest power to change the lives of people. The podcast session was exceptional, as I had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Himmat Anand, Founder of Tree of Life Resorts.
In the hospitality podcast, he shared with us his journey from quitting his job to building 13+ hotels. He has taken us 35 years back, recounting his journey, and shared with us that at the age of 21, reminiscing about those six months, he vividly recalls sitting on the terrace, engrossed in his studies, diligently rubbing oil on his head. It was during this period that he contemplated avenues for personal growth. Sita, India's premier travel agency at the time, had posted advertisements for management trainees. Intrigued by the prospect, he applied, navigating through a rigorous selection process.
Eventually, he emerged successful, securing a role as a management trainee with Sita. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a transformative journey, setting the stage for my career in the dynamic world of travel and management.
When he came back to India in 1995, things had changed a lot since he left. Figuring out what he didn't like became really important in his journey. He spent about one and a half years working in hotels, and that experience taught him a lot about the industry. Even as the hospitality industry kept changing, these lessons helped me make decisions and navigate my career in a way that felt right for me.
Building a Brand in Hospitality Industry : Tree of Life Resorts
"One day, just crossing the road, I saw a sign that said 'Tree of Life,'" Mr. Anand recalls. The simplicity of the moment belied its profound impact. Destiny, he asserts, needed no further questioning.
When the idea of the Tree of Life began to germinate, Mr. Anand delved into research, discovering the rich symbolism embedded in the name. "It's written in the Bible, in books of Hebrew. Everlasting, with fruits and animals—symbolizing everything beautiful, calm, and serene," he shares.
In the tapestry of life, there's a thread that remains constant—knowing when to transition. The belief that one cannot stay on top forever is a guiding principle, a truth our storyteller has held close throughout his journey. "You cannot be a king forever," he asserts, drawing parallels to even the wealthiest individuals facing swift transformations. With this philosophy as a beacon, he shares a pivotal moment in 2007 when he realized his 25-year corporate career had run its course.
The seed of a dream planted 35 years ago began to sprout—the dream of creating a resort, a sanctuary, a Tree of Life. In a bold move, he decided to leave behind the familiar corridors of the corporate world, investing all his savings into bringing this vision to life. The decision to jump into the unknown and embark on a new journey was fueled by profound self-confidence and unwavering belief.
What are your thoughts on working with your son?
Mr. Himmat Anand unfolds the story of working with his son. From bossy beginnings to a strong bond, their journey reveals strict rules, lessons learned, and the age-old question—why not just pass it on?
Surprisingly, Mr. Himmat Anand views the family legacy as a platform, not just a gift. It's about giving people the right tools for personal growth. A simple tale of family, work, and finding the right balance.
From Corporate Career to Boutique Luxury: Himmat Anand's Story
Throughout his journey, Mr. Anand emphasizes the importance of passion. "I only do things that I am very passionate about," he shares. Whether navigating the corporate world or venturing into boutique luxury, the driving force has always been a deep-seated belief and passion. He advises against undertaking endeavors merely to impress society, emphasizing that belief in oneself should be the driving force.
Known for his quick decision-making, Mr. Anand doesn't dwell on indecision. "I make a lot of decisions quickly, and people often worry about it," he chuckles. He advocates for decisiveness and action, acknowledging the need for belief in one's choices. While open to guidance, once a decision is made, he believes in biting the bullet and moving forward.
In a world where hospitality is often synonymous with guest satisfaction, Mr. Anand adds a unique perspective. He emphasizes a two-way street, where the team is as crucial as the guest. His outspoken stance on industry issues and unwavering support for frontline staff reflect a commitment to a holistic hospitality experience.
As Tree of Life Resorts continues to flourish, Mr. Himmat Anand's journey serves as an inspiring narrative, a testament to the enduring principles of trust, passion, and decisive action.
You can watch the full podcast on YouTube.
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