Think Big, Stay Humble: 10 Leadership Lessons from Google CEO Sundar Pichai

From modest roots in India to the helm of Alphabet and Google, Sundar Pichai’s journey is more than just success, it’s a masterclass in leadership, decision-making, and purpose-driven work.

Sundar Pichai’s rise to global leadership wasn’t powered by noise or ego, it was shaped by calm decisiveness, empathy, and clarity. A tech visionary with a soft-spoken style, Pichai’s work habits and leadership philosophy have quietly transformed the way one of the world’s biggest companies functions. But what truly sets him apart is how replicable many of his methods are.

Based on his interviews, speeches, and life journey, here are 10 impactful habits of Sundar Pichai that can elevate your professional game, whether you’re a student, a team leader, or building your own dream.

1. Make Quick, Informed Decisions

Pichai believes waiting for the perfect decision wastes valuable momentum. He recommends taking a decision with the best information available and refining it as you go. “Most decisions can be revisited,” he’s said, so don’t let fear of imperfection paralyse progress.

2. Remove Roadblocks, Don’t Just Delegate

Inspired by his mentor Bill Campbell, Pichai lives by the question: “What ties did you break this week?” True leadership isn’t just guiding or assigning tasks—it’s stepping in when your team is stuck, mediating disagreements, and pushing through indecision to clear the path forward.

3. Never Stop Learning

The tech industry changes fast—and so must you. Pichai constantly urges professionals to seek new skills, explore different perspectives, and surround themselves with people who challenge them. Learning isn’t a phase—it’s a way of life.

4. Love What You Do

For Pichai, passion isn’t optional—it’s fuel. His love for technology and curiosity about solving real-world problems has been his biggest asset. He reminds us that when you enjoy your work, even the tough days feel worth it.

5. Prioritise Rest and Balance

Despite his demanding schedule, Pichai ensures he gets at least 6 hours of sleep daily. For him, productivity starts with mental and physical wellness. He disconnects to reconnect—with himself, his family, and fresh ideas. A well-rested mind makes clearer decisions.

6. Lead with Empathy

Pichai’s leadership is built on emotional intelligence. He listens actively, respects differing views, and builds trust through understanding. This inclusive approach not only creates stronger teams but also helps design better, more human-centric products.

7. Communicate with Clarity

From emails to global keynotes, Pichai simplifies complexity. He champions clear, direct communication—so everyone on the team understands the why behind the what. Simplicity sharpens focus, cuts confusion, and accelerates execution.

8. Measure Impact, Not Activity

“Don’t confuse movement with progress,” is one of his implied mantras. Pichai encourages people to focus on work that truly matters, what creates value not what keeps you busy. Constantly ask: Is this work meaningful?

9. Stay Humble, Always

Even as CEO, Pichai remains grounded. He’s known to welcome feedback, admit mistakes, and give credit freely. His humility builds psychological safety within teams—creating room for bold ideas and honest conversations.

10. Think Long-Term, Stay Patient

Whether launching a new product or reshaping a team, Pichai combines swift short-term actions with a patient long-term vision. He knows real impact takes time and resilience—and he plays the long game with purpose.

Sundar Pichai’s life isn’t just an inspiring story, it’s a practical guide to leading with purpose, learning endlessly, and staying human in the process. His habits aren’t loud or flashy. But they’re deeply powerful.

You don’t have to be the CEO of a tech giant to use these strategies. Start where you are. Lead with empathy. Decide with courage. Learn with hunger. And stay humble.

Because leadership, like life, is built one decision at a time.