"I lived in a cocoon, so to speak. I lived in a surreal world (away from reality in some ways).
"To be away from the game for a while would be good for me, said Dravid, adding, "Whatever decision I take will be based on the fact that I have a young family -- and want to spend time with them."
Dravid said he found strength and encouragement from his parents (Sharad and Pushpa) and brother (Vijay) and they created around him a positive environment which was essential to his success.
His wife, Vijeeta, has been a remarkable partner in his journey.
"She has made sacrifices in her own career and has almost been a single parent bringing up our children alone as I travelled abroad to play. Whenever challenges appeared, she was always there, as sounding board, as ally and as guide."
"Being away from my family became harder and harder through the years and I look forward now to spending time at home and doing the simple things, like just taking my sons (Samit and Anvay) to school," he added.