Deepinder Goyal, the visionary founder of India's largest restaurant discovery and food delivery platform, Zomato, shared a profound insight into personal and professional growth: "Have a learning mindset. The three hardest words in the world are: I don't know." This statement, delivered during a November 2017 interview with Entrepreneur India, underscores the crucial role of humility in leadership and innovation.
The Power of Admitting Ignorance
Goyal’s philosophy highlights that true advancement stems from the courage to acknowledge one's limitations. In both personal endeavors and the high-stakes world of business, individuals often feel compelled to project an image of omniscient expertise. However, this pressure to feign knowledge can stifle curiosity, prevent genuine inquiry, and lead to costly misjudgments.
By embracing the phrase "I don't know," leaders like Goyal remove the burden of perfection. This simple admission opens doors to active listening, collaborative problem-solving, and continuous learning—essential ingredients for navigating complex challenges and fostering innovation. It signals a readiness to learn, grow, and adapt, rather than clinging to potentially outdated or incomplete information.
Deepinder Goyal's Entrepreneurial Journey and New Ventures
An Indian billionaire entrepreneur, Deepinder Goyal graduated from IIT Delhi in 2005 with an Integrated M.Tech in Mathematics and Computing. His leadership at Zomato has made him one of the most prominent figures in India's dynamic startup ecosystem, with an estimated net worth primarily derived from his stake in the company.
In February 2026, Goyal transitioned from his role as Group CEO of Zomato’s parent company, Eternal Ltd, to become its Vice Chairman. This strategic move allows him to focus on high-risk, experimental technology startups beyond the food delivery sector. His current focus areas include:
- Temple: A health-tech venture dedicated to developing an advanced wearable device aimed at optimizing human performance.
- LAT Aerospace: An ambitious project focused on creating pilot-free aviation networks for inter-city travel, potentially revolutionizing regional transportation.
These new ventures reflect Goyal's enduring commitment to innovation and his belief in a learning mindset, pushing boundaries in diverse technological fields.