Year: 2023

Chasing Happiness In A Year Of Challenges

woman holding up flowers
Unlocking Happiness. Photo by Felix Young on Pexels.com

Have you ever felt that happiness has eluded you for an eternity?

I certainly experienced that sentiment in 2023.

As the year draws to a close, I took a moment to reflect on the lessons learned and the moments of joy amid the challenges.

The past year brought its share of hardships. My 94-year-old mother endured a collapsed disc, rendering her bedridden for months. Subsequently, a diagnosis of dementia added complexity to her care. Managing her increasing agitation has made the role of a caregiver even more daunting. Throughout this ordeal, feelings of loneliness and sadness enveloped me, as I found it heart-wrenching to witness her suffering.

On a personal note, I underwent health issues. Despite assurances that cataract surgery is routine and boasts a 99.9% success rate, I found myself in the 0.1% with complications to navigate. It made me question why I fell into that statistical minority.

Adding to the challenges, a dear friend received a lung cancer diagnosis, embarking on a grueling journey of radiation and chemotherapy. Observing her wrestle with this life-threatening illness has been emotionally taxing.

The negatives seemed to outweigh the positives in 2023.

Desperate to fill the void of happiness, I sought solace in various activities – immersing myself in social media, binge-watching TV serials, and indulging in online shopping. However, the happiness derived from these pursuits was fleeting, leaving me feeling stuck.

Happiness Or Pleasure

I came to realize that what I was achieving was pleasure, not happiness. Pleasure may offer momentary satisfaction, but it lacks the enduring quality of true happiness.

In my quest for inner peace amidst chaos, a quote by Tibetan teacher Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche struck a chord: “You don’t need to look for peace, calm, joy because when you look for them, they will disappear.” This revelation prompted me to reconsider my approach to happiness.

Life’s stressors were overwhelming, and the more I pursued happiness, the more elusive it became.

Learning Is The First Step To Seeking Happiness

The first step towards true happiness is learning. “Remember this, that very little is needed to make a happy life.” — Marcus Aurelius.

In times of stress, I turned to “The Art Of Happiness” by The Dalai Lama. The book emphasized that external sources like wealth, worldly pursuits, or physical health are not the pathways to happiness. Happiness transcends external stimuli and requires a rejection of negative emotions while embracing positive ones.

Unlocking inner happiness became a priority. “When things change inside you, things change around you.” — Unknown.

While understanding the principles was straightforward, implementing them demanded a mental shift. I had habitually perceived my circumstances negatively, necessitating a conscious effort to adopt a positive perspective and find inner happiness.

Actions taken to unlock my inner happiness:

  1. Compiled a list of positives from 2023, no matter how few.
  2. Recognized and utilized the healing power of nature by creating a balcony garden.
  3. Practiced gratitude by maintaining a gratitude jar, shifting focus from complaints to blessings.
  4. Prioritized self-care through early morning deep breathing exercises and Yoga.
  5. Cultivated a sense of self-worth, aiding in coping with adversities and gaining perspective on negatives.

Aristotle’s belief resonates: “True happiness has to do with ‘internal goods’…instead of those far too popular ‘external goods.’”

Realizing that true happiness lies in appreciating life’s simple blessings has been my paramount lesson from 2023.

Empowering Women: Breaking Stereotypes and Building a Path to Success

woman in black outfit standing beside a table
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
Michelle Obama

I wholeheartedly echo Michelle Obama’s sentiments. I have consistently believed that women must have unwavering self-belief to attain success in any endeavor they choose to pursue.

Education alone does not guarantee a path to success

Recently, during a speed mentoring session with a group of dynamic young ladies, I encountered a disheartening situation. One accomplished woman, having excelled in her studies, completed her engineering degree and secured a position in a prestigious IT company, was suddenly pressured by her family to quit her job and get married.

Unfortunately, such scenarios are not uncommon in India, where societal expectations often dictate a woman’s life choices, especially regarding marriage.


At a school reunion last month, another instance caught my attention. A friend shared that his daughter, a qualified Chartered Accountant, struggled to find a suitable job. Eager to assist, I discovered that the challenge went beyond the job search—she lacked the motivation to pursue employment actively.


These examples highlight a crucial aspect: education alone is not sufficient.

True success requires an inner drive and a purpose. Familial pressures and unsupportive environments often dissuade young women from pursuing their careers. However, a strong desire and ambition enable individuals to filter out the noise and focus on achieving their goals.

Seeking help is not weakness

Young women must seek help without considering it a sign of weakness. As aspiring individuals, building a support system is crucial, and this involves reaching out to parents, in-laws, husbands, brothers, friends, or anyone capable of assisting. Demonstrating your ability to manage responsibilities at home and work can inspire others to support your ambitions.


In today’s world, giving up everything is no longer the only option for women. Technology has brought knowledge to our doorsteps. Embrace it, explore the world, expand your knowledge, and aspire to achieve meaningful goals. While priorities in life may shift, women possess the resilience to adjust their goals accordingly.

Breaking Stereotypes

Establishing robust support systems aids in navigating changing priorities. Although career breaks are inevitable, they need not be permanent setbacks. With numerous online courses available, women can utilize reskilling and personal development opportunities.


Acknowledging that some biases are generational, it’s essential to challenge and change these perspectives over time. Empowering women to believe in themselves, ask for support, and pursue their ambitions is not just an individual endeavour but a collective effort towards breaking stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive society.

“We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.”
Sheryl Sandberg

Navigating Emotional Turbulence: A Personal Journey Of Self Discovery

A personal journey of self discovery
Navigating Emotional Turbulence- Photo by alleksana on Pexels.com

In the past few days, I found myself caught in the midst of a power struggle unfolding around the execution of high-value projects within our gated community. The management association, responsible for overseeing our community buildings, has unfortunately lost the trust of its residents due to a lack of transparency in financial matters. This has led to a surge in communication, with a barrage of emails exchanged between residents and the association board members

On yet another occasion, during a client presentation, my focus was repeatedly disrupted by one of the client partners. This proved to be a source of frustration, but I felt powerless to shield myself from such challenging individuals.

I have had similar experiences in social circles when certain people where certain individuals consistently provoke irritation and leave me feeling annoyed.

During all the above situations, I experienced getting angry, frustrated, judgmental, and a host of feelings I could not decipher. But it was translating into stress, which I knew was detrimental to my wellbeing. In the past, I have felt similar emotions while reacting to toxic situations at work. I would come out of meetings which felt toxic, argumentative, and not worth spending time at.

These emotions drained my energy levels and, for two days following the event, I hated to do anything constructive as they also hindered my ability to think clearly. I pushed myself to work and stay engaged in work, but it wasn’t easy. Any attempt to think clearly failed. I would find it difficult to manage these emotions, but do nothing about it. Thinking it would disappear with time, and I would be fine again.

Recognizing the need for change, I sought the assistance of a coach to help me manage these emotions and develop the capacity to accept circumstances while experiencing the associated feelings. It became evident that my habitual response was reactive, contributing to stress and an unhealthy environment.

Reacting to Situations Emotionally

“Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear”? ~ Lao Tzu

My coach helped me understand that I was reacting to situations. Mindfulness of my emotions during these moments allowed me to pause and respond more thoughtfully, leading to a more composed and confident approach.

A reaction is the root cause for distress, unclear thinking, and creating a toxic environment. When you respond, it would be a more rounded, controlled, and confident you responding to a situation.

Expectation Trap Causing Emotional Turbulence

“You are your own worst enemy. If you can learn to stop expecting impossible perfection, in yourself and others, you may find the happiness that has always eluded you.” ~ Lisa Kleypas, Love in the Afternoon

The root of my frustration and anger, as I discovered, lay in unmet expectations. Like everyone else, I held expectations for my surroundings, relationships, work, and various aspects of life. The intensity of my emotional responses depended on the degree of attachment to these expectations. In times when expectations were unmet, frustration ensued, occasionally leading to self-blame for perceived failures.

Most times, I would blame myself for not meeting expectations. Sometimes I thought I had failed completely and I did not have the ability to meet my own expectations.

To mitigate these emotional storms, I learned to lower my expectations, thereby gaining greater control over the intensity and frequency of my emotional reactions.

Acceptance

“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it.” ~ Michael J Fox

I remember Marshall Goldsmith’s article Can You Let Go?. Marshall talks about how acceptance of certain people, or situations, helps to liberate us from toxic emotions.

I have now learned the art of acceptance. I have lowered my expectations and am mindful of my emotions when responding to certain situations or people. I, therefore, am more controlled and do not react.

Lessons Learned

A pivotal lesson emerged from this journey—learning to be mindful of my emotions and embracing a pause before responding. While it initially required practice and patience, this newfound approach has empowered me to navigate similar situations with a positive response, preventing emotions from becoming a source of stress.

Rangoli- A Time Honoured Tradition

two women are sitting on the floor and drawing a colorful design
Photo by Sanket Mishra on Pexels.com

India recently celebrated the Festival of Lights, Diwali, a time when households embrace the tradition of adorning their entrances with intricate patterns known as Rangoli. The term “Rangoli” originates from the Sanskrit word “Rangavalli,” meaning an array of colours.

Rangoli holds a special significance in Hindu households, serving the dual purpose of inviting the Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, through visually pleasing patterns and welcoming guests. This tradition extends beyond Diwali and is observed during festivals such as Pongal and Onam.

What is Rangoli?

Traditionally, Rangoli is an art of floor decoration symbolizing a household’s happiness, positivity, and vibrancy. This practice has transcended residential spaces in contemporary times, gracing the entrances of businesses and offices during diverse festivals.

Mothers in India pass down the art of Rangoli to their daughters, creating a cultural continuity. I learned this art form from my grandmother and mother, both accomplished artists. My grandmother’s daily ritual of meticulously creating Rangoli at the crack of dawn left an indelible impression. The welcoming ambience, the fragrance of jasmine flowers, and the aroma of morning coffee remain etched in my memory.

My grandmother’s and my mothers’s rangoli, both at the entrance and in the pooja rooms, have always been a visual treat and left me in awe. My daughter-in-law is also an expert in this art form. Her latest rangoli design during this Diwali is in the picture below.

Regional Variations

Rangoli exhibits diverse regional variations across India. Known as Kolam in South India, Mandana in Rajasthan, Alpana in West Bengal, Chowk Purana in Uttar Pradesh, Aripan in Bihar (created using rice flour and paste), and Maharashtra’s floor-drawn designs showcase the rich tapestry of cultural diversity.

Evolution of Rangoli Designs

Scientifically, Rangoli holds significance as geometric patterns, particularly curved ones created by connecting dots, positively impact the environment. These patterns symbolize the universe’s infinite nature and echo sound wave harmonics, contributing to mental well-being.

Inspired by nature, Rangoli designs evoke joy and positivity, ranging from geometric shapes to floral patterns and depictions of Hindu deities. The unbroken lines in these designs serve a protective function, preventing the intrusion of evil spirits.

Worldwide Symbolism

Symmetry in Rangoli designs is universally considered a symbol of prosperity, luck, and growth across religions. It is also believed to be a harbinger of good fortune.

Conclusion

Rangoli is a simple and traditional art form with deep cultural roots. Let every festival inspire us to practice this beautiful tradition, offering a pause in our hectic lifestyles and fostering focus. As we draw traditional Rangolis, we connect with a heritage that transcends generations, embodying joy, positivity, and the spirit of celebration.

The Triumph Of The Hibiscus Plant

My hibiscus plant has a unique and fascinating story. For several years, I’ve been tending to a hibiscus plant on my balcony garden. What makes this plant so special is its vibrant, multicoloured flowers. 

It has consistently bloomed for almost a decade, bringing me immense joy and happiness.

However, six months ago, my beloved hibiscus plant suddenly stopped flowering and begain to wither, appearing sickly. I was determined to revive it and tried everything I could think of.

I repotted it into a larger container, carefully untangled the knotted roots, changed the soil, and added essential nutrients. I patiently waited, hoping that my efforts would pay off, but to my disappointment, the hibiscus showed no signs of rejuvenation.

It continued to look sad and feeble, and I had begun to believe it might have reached the end of its life. I reluctantly decided to discard the plant and purchase a new one.  

However, life had other plans. Due to my upcoming travel, I got caught up with preparations and completely forgot about the plant. In my absence ,my domestic help faithfully watered the hibiscus, along with the rest of my balcony garden.

Upon my return, I was pleasantly surprised to notice a tiny, vibrant green sprig emerging from the plant.  Over the next few weeks, I observed the growth of new leaves.

To my absolute delight, this morning, as I strolled onto my balcony, I was greeted by the enchanting sight of a beautiful pink hibiscus flower in full bloom.  I cannot express the overwhelming happiness I felt upon seeing this unexpected burst of life and colour.  

Lesson Learnt

This experience taught me a valuable lesson.

I didn’t give up on my hibiscus plant; I continued to nurture it, even when all hope seemed lost.

This is a testament to the enduring friendship between me and the plant over the years.

As George Washington wisely noted, ” True friendship is a plant of slow growth,” this hibiscus plant exemplifies the beauty of perseverance and patience in nurturing such relationships.

Finding Balance In A Chaotic World

woman balancing
Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery on Pexels.com

Do I feel off balance today, or is something throwing me off? This is a question I frequently pose to myself, pondering what actions I can take to regain my equilibrium.

It has become a recurring occurrence, happening nearly three times a week, where I am in a state of imbalance.


As Dolly Parton astutely remarked, “Never become so absorbed in the pursuit of a livelihood that you neglect the creation of a life.”


Balance is a fundamental principle of life. However, in today’s ever-changing, volatile, and chaotic world, achieving this balance poses a significant challenge.


My typical routine involves planning my day the night before, yet more often than not, I find myself deviating from these plans. Last-minute requests for urgent work, unexpected errands, or emergencies constantly arise, disrupting my equilibrium.


A recent study conducted by Gallup in collaboration with the Wellbeing for Planet Earth Foundation revealed that one-third of individuals worldwide, equating to almost 2 billion people, feel that their lives are imbalanced.


Various Factors Contributing to Life Imbalance


In our environment, there is a prevailing sense of unrest and disturbance. While technology has brought the world closer together and eliminated boundaries, it has also eroded our core human values.


Intense competition, the never-ending pursuit of wealth and fame, and the desire for a life of comfort, all compounded by the pressure to portray an idealized self on social media, have contributed to the imbalance in our personal lives.


Research indicates that stress-ridden work environments, financial instability, increasing job insecurity, rapid urbanization, a decline in physical activity, and sedentary behaviours are all culprits behind significant health issues.


Conceiving Our Life as a Four-Wheeled Vehicle


Recently, as I prepared for a long road trip, I took my car to the garage for servicing. The mechanic strongly recommended wheel balancing, given the upcoming journey. He advised me to ensure the wheels were aligned correctly to minimize unexpected road bumps.


This experience made me contemplate how our lives can be likened to a four-wheeled vehicle.

When we visualize our lives as cars, we recognize the need for equilibrium on all four wheels. These four wheels represent Personal Life, Relationships, Work Life, and Social Contributions. Striking the right balance between these aspects can undoubtedly lead to a smoother and more enjoyable journey.

However, it is vital to acknowledge that, akin to a car, life may still encounter unanticipated bumps and curves. Being prepared, fostering resilience, and adapting when necessary are crucial for navigating such challenges effectively.

Key Points on Leading a Balanced Life as suggested by Deepak Chopra.

Deepak Chopra, a well-known author and speaker on holistic health and wellness, has provided numerous suggestions for leading a balanced life. While his recommendations encompass a wide range of topics, here are some key points that he has emphasized:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Deepak Chopra often stresses the importance of mindfulness and meditation as tools for reducing stress, increasing self-awareness, and promoting mental clarity. Regular meditation practices help in achieving balance.
  2. Healthy Eating: He advocates for a balanced and nourishing diet. Consuming whole foods, emphasizing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding processed or unhealthy foods are key aspects of leading a balanced life.
  3. Regular Exercise: Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining physical health and mental well-being. Regular exercise can help manage stress, improve mood, and enhance overall vitality.
  4. Stress Management: Deepak Chopra emphasizes the need to manage stress effectively. Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce stress levels.
  5. Quality Sleep: Prioritizing sleep is vital for physical and mental health. He often recommends establishing healthy sleep routines and adequate rest to support overall balance.
  6. Emotional Wellbeing: Nurturing emotional well-being is a significant component of leading a balanced life. This may include expressing emotions, fostering positive relationships, and engaging in joyful activities.
  7. Purpose and Meaning: Finding purpose and meaning in life can contribute to a sense of balance and fulfillment. Deepak Chopra encourages individuals to explore their passions, interests, and values to lead a more purposeful life.
  8. Spiritual Growth: Deepak Chopra often discusses the importance of spiritual growth to connect with one’s inner self and promote a sense of balance and harmony.
  9. Holistic Health: He emphasizes the holistic nature of health, where the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected. Addressing all aspects of health is essential for overall balance.
  10. Positive Affirmations and Intentions: Deepak Chopra recommends using positive affirmations and setting clear intentions to align your thoughts and actions with your goals and values.
  11. Community and Social Connections: Building and maintaining supportive relationships and connections with others is an essential part of leading a balanced life.
  12. Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is critical. Taking time for relaxation, self-reflection, and personal growth can contribute to overall well-being.

Individual needs and circumstances can vary, so it’s valuable to explore and adapt these principles to your own life to create a personalized path toward balance and well-being.

Unleash Your Ikigai: What’s Your Purpose In Life?

woman standing on sunflower field
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

“What motivates you to start your day?” I often pose this question to my coaching clients, and the responses I receive can be truly inspiring and filled with passion.

The Japanese have a term for identifying this morning motivation: “Ikigai.” It encompasses why a person gets up in the morning and the driving force behind their actions.

Confucius once said, “If you do a job that you really love, it won’t feel like work, but rather a source of enjoyment.” This phenomenon occurs when one lives with passion, intensity, and a commitment to fulfilling their deepest desire.

Discovering Your Life’s Purpose

Identifying your life’s purpose can be a challenging quest. However, when you’ve pinpointed your likes and passions, it becomes easier to recognize your purpose. Your individual values and passions guide you towards your personal life goals and help you stride purposefully forward.

For me, a career aimed at improving the lives of others has always been my primary goal. My initial aspiration was to have a meaningful career. To achieve this, I dedicated myself to acquiring new skills and knowledge that made me adaptable to various work environments and domains.

Learning should never cease, and one should strive to be a lifelong learner.

Building Fulfilling Relationships

Fostering healthy and reciprocal relationships enables effective communication with others, fostering a better understanding. As a coach and mentor, I treat individuals in a way that inspires and respects them.

Through my experiences and lessons learned, I openly share my failures, successes, and life journey with the people I mentor.

Nature and Art: A Second Purpose

My love for nature and art enriches my life and serves my second purpose.

Age Is Just A Number

Age should never limit your pursuit of your passions. I recently had a conversation with my 89-year-old cousin, who continues to pursue her passion for theatre, acting in films, and writing stories for magazines. At the age of 85, she even decided to take music lessons.

My 94-year-old mother is another inspiring example. She remains dedicated to her passion for knitting, crafting items for underprivileged children and donating to NGOs that support orphans. These remarkable women have set an extraordinary example, proving that age should never hinder your dreams. Life offers rare opportunities to follow your passions, and you should seize them.

Closing Thoughts

Have you ever noticed how your body feels when you engage in activities you are passionate about? It’s a remarkable sensation, filled with immense joy, relaxation, a natural high, and a deep commitment to the task at hand.

Given my purpose in life to help others, I initially provided a lot of pro-bono coaching and mentoring to help individuals progress in their personal and professional lives. Volunteering in this way allowed me to gain valuable experience. Collaborating with individuals from various industries also gave me insights into how I could add value and assist others.

In the wise words of David Cuschieri, “Love what you do and do what you love. Passion is the key that opens the door to joy and abundance.”

Embracing Nature’s Secrets: A Walk in Berlin’s Largest Park

Tiergarten Berlin- Photo Credit- Author

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than they seek.” – John Muir.


I couldn’t agree more with John Muir. A few years ago, I was in Berlin in the early spring. I had arrived in Berlin on a Sunday morning, feeling sluggish and jet-lagged. To shake off the weariness, I decided to step outside and breathe in some fresh air, and where better to do that than the Tiergarten, which was conveniently close to where I was staying?

The Tiergarten worked wonders for my mood. As John Lubbock aptly put it, “Fresh air is as beneficial for the mind as it is for the body. Nature always seems to be trying to communicate with us, as if she holds some great secret. And indeed, she does.”

Tiergarten-Berlin .Photo Credit-Author

During that early spring morning, the Tiergarten transformed into a breathtaking landscape of pinks, oranges, and greens, with fallen petals creating a delicate carpet on the ground.

It was a delightful experience to take a stroll through the park, absorbing the harmonious blend of colours and the sheer beauty of it all.

This park boasts magnificent trees, serene lakes, and a profusion of flowers.

Tiergarten Berlin. Photo Credit-Author

It’s so vast that one could quickly lose their way; I certainly didn’t realize its immense size when I embarked on my walk.

The Tiergarten is the largest park in Berlin.
Immersing myself in the park’s flora and fauna filled me with an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquillity.

Tiergarten Berlin
Lakes in Tier Garten -Berlin. Photo Credit-Author

That Sunday morning in Berlin started with happiness for me, much like Mary Oliver’s words in

“Hello, sun in my face. Hello, you who made the morning and spread it over the fields… Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness.”

This post was first published in Reciprocal Publication of Medium.

5 Inspiring Quotes That Guide My Life

an encouragement quotes on brown paper
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Life is filled with moments of doubt and uncertainty, but powerful quotes have the ability to keep us on track.

Motivational quotes have always inspired me on my journey, enabling me to overcome challenges and achieve my dreams.

Lesson 1: Determination

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” -Collin Powell.

This lesson has resonated with me throughout my personal and professional life. I’ve encountered numerous challenges during my college days and throughout my career.

However, the enduring wisdom imparted to me by my father was the importance of unwavering focus and determination.

Lesson 2: Experience

“Good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment”-Rita Mae Brown

This insight from Rita Mae Brown has guided my approach to failure.

Instead of becoming demotivated by setbacks, I’ve been taught to view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Experience serves as a valuable source of wisdom, offering invaluable life lessons, personal growth, and self-awareness.

Lesson 3: Mindset

“Obstacles can’t stop you. Problems can’t stop you. Most of all, other people can’t stop you. Only you can stop you.”-Jeffrey Gitomer

Cultivating a growth mindset is essential for overcoming life’s challenges and preventing our minds from becoming roadblocks.

“There is only one way to succeed in anything and that is to give it everything.”-Vince Lombardi.

Vince Lombardi’s words further emphasize the idea that nothing worthwhile comes easily, highlighting the necessity of determination and effort in turning dreams into reality.

Lesson 4: Questions

“Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers.”-Voltaire

Voltaire’s perspective compels us to be grateful. Instead of dwelling on negative questions like “why me,”? it’s important to cultivate gratitude for what we have – the ability to breathe, walk, and think for ourselves.

Lesson 5: Failure

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”-Winston Churchill.

My father instilled in me the belief that hard work and perseverance are within our control, and with enough of both, success becomes inevitable.


These five inspirational quotes continue to shape my life, reminding me of the importance of determination, experience, mindset, thoughtful questions, and the courage to persevere in the face of failure. They serve as guiding beacons on my journey towards personal growth and success.

Life Is A Merry-Go-Round Ride

a brown ferris wheel under blue sky
Photo by Nadiia Yahaha on Pexels.com

Who doesn’t want to feel like a kid again? I would love to be one!! There is something magical about it.

I still love the merry-go-round and don’t hesitate to ride one whenever the opportunity presents itself.

“Life is a merry-go-round ride”, reminds me of the childhood rhyme we all grew up singing in our kindergarten,

“Ring a ring, a rosie

A pocketful of posies

A-tishoo! a-tishoo!

We all fall down.”

Isn’t Life somewhat similar?

Life is a roller coaster, with many highs and lows and curves. We get tossed around, but things level out in the end, and life returns to normal until the next ride.

I can relate to this with my example. When I passed my final year of engineering and received a job offer letter from a well-known engineering company in Pune, I was full of energy and optimism and felt like I was on top of the world.

I started my career excitedly and enthusiastically, like a child hopping onto a merry-go-round.

Like the horses on the merry-go-round that goes up and down, repeating the same motion, my career also experienced success, achievements, failures, setbacks and disappointments. And this continued throughout my career of three decades and more.

Each time I changed jobs, I went through this same cycle. Initially, everything in the new job is exciting, and then slowly, the monotony sets in.

I had to take on further risks, grab new opportunities, work on new initiatives and keep moving. Despite the challenges, I kept pushing forward and finding new ways to develop and grow professionally.

After spending three decades and more in the industry, reflecting on my career journey, I realised that despite the ups and downs, it was all worth it.

I feel grateful for the experiences, the people I met along the way and the lessons I learned.

What I experienced in my career is also what we experience in all aspects of our lives.

Life is Fleeting

The phrase, Life is a merry-go-round also suggests that life is fleeting and we should enjoy the ride while we can.

The fragility of life is daunting, and it inspires us to live in the present and enjoy and appreciate every moment we have.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought home the reality that Life is fleeting.

I lost some good friends who were hale and hearty a few days before they became seriously ill, had to be admitted to the hospital, and succumbed to the disease. It reminded me of the fragility and unpredictability of Life.

It is easy to get caught up in the daily grind of Life. Life can change instantly; therefore, we need to cherish every moment with our loved ones.

Time passes quickly, and I, therefore, adopt some fundamental ways to embrace the fleeting nature of Life,

  1. Appreciating people and letting them know how much I love and care for them helps me cherish every moment I spend with them. Life is short, and we never know when our loved ones will be taken away from us. My mom has been diagnosed with late-onset dementia. I spend time with her and look at old photos with her. She remembers something, and we talk about it. When she is in a good mood, I ask her for recipes, and she tells me whatever she remembers. I spend time every evening watching television with her. My friends come and meet her every evening and hug her.
  2. Pursue my passions even amid all uncertainties. I continue spending time consulting, writing and gardening even though a large part of my day is spent in elder care activities.
  3. I have started maintaining a gratitude journal and spending time every evening reflecting and writing about things I am grateful for. I write about all things that made me smile during the day.

In conclusion, I have learnt to make the most of every moment. Life is a precious gift, and better make it meaningful.