New Delhi, Sept. 2 -- At 18, Abhishek Agarwal discovered what being completely broke actually meant. He lacked money for education and even basic food.

For seven days, Agarwal survived mainly on bread and water. Hunger was painful, but helplessness left a deeper mark.

Years later, the founder of The Deliberate Pause views that week differently. He now considers those seven days among his most important experiences.

"I was broke as Fu*k when I was 18. And, I think everyone should be completely broke at least once in their life. I know that sounds like a horrible thing to wish on someone," Agarwal wrote.

"And I don't mean the kind of broke where you can't afford the vacation you wanted, or you have to wait until next month to buy someth...