Manoj Yadav is a renowned engineer, author, and motivational speaker whose work inspires individuals to embrace their true potential. With a career spanning over a decade in the engineering field, Manoj has also made a significant impact through his writing and motivational content. His latest book, Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart: Will You Be My Forever?, is a heartfelt exploration of love, self-worth, and the importance of looking beyond physical appearances. Known for his simple yet powerful storytelling, Manoj encourages readers to discover the beauty within themselves and to live life with purpose and authenticity.
The Literature Times: The title of your book is quite captivating. What inspired you to choose “Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart” as the title, and how does it reflect the essence of the story?
Manoj Yadav: The title “Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart” was inspired by the central idea that real beauty and greatness come from within, not from external appearances. In a world that often values outward success and looks, the story explores how people who seem ordinary on the surface can possess extraordinary qualities in their hearts—such as kindness, courage, empathy, and resilience—that make them truly remarkable. The title serves as a reminder that the most profound and impactful aspects of a person aren’t always visible at first glance. It reflects the essence of the story by highlighting the journey of characters who, despite facing challenges and judgments based on their looks or circumstances, prove that true worth is found in the depth of their character and their actions.
The Literature Times: In the book, you talk about how AI mirrors and complements human thought. Can you elaborate on how you believe AI can enhance human creativity and decision-making?
Manoj Yadav: In the book, I explore the idea that AI doesn’t just mimic human thought—it complements and amplifies it. AI can enhance human creativity and decision-making by offering new perspectives, processing vast amounts of data quickly, and performing tasks that are repetitive or data-heavy, thus freeing up human minds for more innovative, big-picture thinking.
The Literature Times: In your book, Kartik struggles with self-doubt due to his ordinary looks. What message do you hope readers will take away about self-acceptance and overcoming insecurities?
Manoj Yadav: In Kartik’s journey, his struggle with self-doubt stemming from his ordinary looks serves as a powerful metaphor for the insecurities many of us face—whether about our appearance, abilities, or worth. Through his story, I hope readers take away the message that self-acceptance is not about conforming to external standards or seeking validation from others. It’s about embracing who you are at your core and recognizing that true beauty and strength come from within.
The Literature Times: The relationship between Kartik and Arushi highlights the importance of seeing beyond physical appearance. How do you think society can benefit from embracing this mindset in real life?
Manoj Yadav: The relationship between Kartik and Arushi in the book highlights the transformative power of looking beyond physical appearance to truly understand and appreciate someone for who they are on the inside. In their story, both characters learn that authentic connection is built on qualities like kindness, empathy, and shared values, rather than superficial traits.
If society embraces this mindset in real life, it could lead to a profound shift in how we interact with one another. By moving past the emphasis on appearance and outward success, we would create a more inclusive, compassionate world where people are valued for their character, actions, and contributions. This shift would reduce harmful stereotypes, body image issues, and shallow judgments, allowing individuals to feel more accepted and confident in their true selves.
The Literature Times: The theme of self-discovery is central to Kartik’s character arc. Can you share any personal experiences that inspired you to explore this theme in your writing?
Manoj Yadav: The theme of self-discovery in Kartik’s character arc is something I hold close to my heart, as it reflects my own personal journey of growth and transformation. Over the years, I’ve faced my own doubts and insecurities—times when I questioned whether I was on the right path, or if my abilities and dreams were enough. These moments of uncertainty are universal, and I believe they’re an integral part of the human experience. It was through those moments of struggle that I began to understand how essential self-discovery is—not just as a concept, but as a process of embracing who we truly are, beyond external expectations.
The Literature Times: Arushi’s character is portrayed as strong and independent, offering a counterbalance to Kartik’s vulnerability. How important do you think it is for both men and women to embrace vulnerability in their relationships?
Manoj Yadav: Embracing vulnerability in relationships is essential for both men and women because it fosters true intimacy, trust, and emotional connection. In the book, Arushi’s strength and independence provide a counterbalance to Kartik’s vulnerability, but together, they highlight that vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a powerful tool for growth and understanding. When individuals are willing to open up about their fears, insecurities, and desires, it creates a space for deeper emotional bonds to form.
In Kartik and Arushi’s relationship, vulnerability becomes a strength because it enables them to communicate openly, understand each other’s struggles, and offer mutual support. Their dynamic shows that when both partners allow themselves to be vulnerable, they create a partnership built on authenticity and emotional depth. Ultimately, embracing vulnerability is a key to not only personal growth but also to creating relationships that are resilient, compassionate, and deeply connected.
The Literature Times: You’ve written several books, including ‘When I Was in College’ and ‘It Started with a WhatsApp Message’. How does ‘Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart’ differ from your previous works in terms of message or style?
Manoj Yadav: In my earlier books, the focus was often on the excitement and spontaneity of life, particularly in the context of college experiences or modern digital relationships. It Started with a WhatsApp Message, for instance, explored the fast-paced, sometimes unpredictable nature of online connections and how they can lead to meaningful relationships. Similarly, When I Was in College delved into the carefree, adventurous spirit of youth, examining friendships, personal growth, and the discovery of love in the college years.
Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart takes a more introspective approach, shifting the focus towards self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the deeper emotional landscapes of its characters. While there is still romance and the dynamics of relationships, the book places a stronger emphasis on the internal struggles that many people face, particularly around self-worth and societal perceptions of beauty. The message is more about the importance of seeing beyond appearances, both in ourselves and in others, and learning to value inner qualities such as kindness, empathy, and resilience. It’s a story about overcoming insecurities and realizing that our true worth comes from who we are on the inside, rather than how the world perceives us.
Stylistically, Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart is also more reflective and emotional compared to my earlier works. While my previous books had a lighter, often humorous tone, this one takes a more serious and thoughtful approach, exploring deeper themes of vulnerability, personal growth, and emotional connection. The characters are more complex, and their struggles feel more grounded in reality, making it a more contemplative read.
In essence, while all my books share themes of personal growth and relationships, Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart stands out for its focus on self-acceptance, emotional depth, and the importance of looking beyond the surface to understand the true value of a person. It’s a more mature and introspective work, aimed at encouraging readers to embrace their imperfections and recognize the extraordinary qualities that lie within us all.
The Literature Times: Through your motivational work, you encourage people to unlock their true potential. How do you incorporate this philosophy into your storytelling, particularly in this book?
Manoj Yadav: In my motivational work, I focus on helping people unlock their true potential by encouraging them to overcome their self-doubt, embrace their strengths, and step into their authentic selves. This philosophy is deeply woven into the storytelling of Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart. The book’s central theme revolves around self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the realization that true potential comes from within, not from external validation or superficial measures of success.
Ultimately, Ordinary by Looks, Extraordinary by Heart is a reflection of the power of transformation—how embracing who we are, imperfections and all, can help us unlock a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and true to our potential.
