Observe to Unmask – Knowing People Better with Pushpendra Mehta

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In this conversation, we explored with Pushpendra Mehta, author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller Observe to Unmask: 100 Small Things to Know People Better, the subtle yet powerful art of observation—and how truly seeing others (and ourselves) changes everything.

Drawing from his acclaimed book and life experiences across India and the U.S., Pushpendra shared how quiet observation, sharpened perception, and intuitive listening can help us decode human behaviour, build stronger relationships, and lead with empathy and insight.

We also discussed the karma behind human interactions—how our choices, thoughts, and even unnoticed behaviours can set karmic cycles in motion in both personal and professional life. How a lack of self-awareness and understanding of the karma creation process can lead to unintended consequences—and how we can course-correct through conscious living.

Here are some insights from the interview you don’t want to miss:

1. The Importance of Observation: Pushpendra emphasised the subtle yet powerful art of observation. By observing your thoughts, words, actions, and patterns, you become better equipped to understand yourself and others, which can lead to more successful personal and professional interactions.
   
2. Understanding Karma: Pushpendra discussed karma as a reflection of our past, present, and future actions. He noted that every action creates a karma, which results in a consequence—either favourable or not. This highlights the importance of self-awareness and positive actions to avoid negative karmic entanglement.
   
3. Effective Hiring Practices: By asking candidates uncommon questions during the interview process, such as how they overcome failure, you can better assess their compatibility with your organisation. This helps in making informed decisions and hiring the right talent.
   
4. Expressing Gratitude: Pushpendra pointed out that many people are emotionally stingy when it comes to expressing gratitude, appreciation, or compliments. Being more generous with positive affirmations can have a significant impact on relationships and workplace culture.
   
5. Learning from the First 18-21 Years: Understanding a person’s journey from childhood to adulthood can provide insights into their current behaviors and motivations. This perspective helps in discerning what people might pursue based on what was lacking during their formative years.

Pursue your passion, work with your intuition, learn as a child, and adapt as water – Pushpendra Mehta

Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, seeker, or simply curious about what shapes people and outcomes—this conversation will leave you thinking, observing, and living a little differently.

You can listen to this Business Elevation Show interview with Pushpendra Mehta & Chris Cooper here. Alternatively on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Tunein, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio (latter US only).

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More about Pushpendra Mehta:

Pushpendra Mehta is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book, “Observe to Unmask: 100 Small Things to Know People Better,” and the acclaimed novel, The Suitable Inheritor, a captivating spiritual romance story that spans Chicago and Peru with an India connect. 

A writer, speaker, and mentor, Pushpendra focuses on enriching the understanding of human behaviour and providing solutions to both business and personal challenges through the power of karma, observation, perception, and intuition.

He is currently working on a book that explores how a lack of self-observation and understanding of the karma creation process leads to negative karmas—bringing unforeseen consequences in the workplace and personal life.  

Raised in India and now based in Atlanta, USA, Pushpendra is a Contributing Writer for Entrepreneur Media (home of Entrepreneur magazine) and an alumnus of Northwestern University.

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