The Secret to Doing More

Before we dive in, here’s a quick challenge—without paying attention to your breath, answer this: do we pause between inhale and exhale? Now, observe your breath: Do you feel that tiny pause before you inhale? And brief stillness before you exhale? This pause is life’s natural rhythm. Even breathing isn’t a nonstop sprint; it flows … Continue reading The Secret to Doing More →

When you get bumped up…

I fondly remember the times I got opportunity to pick larger or wider roles. I recall the excitement, as it opened doors to new opportunities. However, once the initial excitement subsided, I recall feeling overwhelmed. Suddenly, my to-do list seemed endless, and being “busy” became my new normal. My pride in being a hands-on person … Continue reading When you get bumped up… →

Who says working with diverse people is easy?

I was presenting a couple of approaches to solve a difficult problem. After presenting the solutions, I said, “If you have a different point of view or suggestion, please share” A junior colleague raised her hand and said, “Padma, I don’t think this is going to work. And here’s why…” Immediately a thought crossed my … Continue reading Who says working with diverse people is easy? →

The soft power of consistency

Indeed, consistency gives one superpower! It isn’t flashy or scream for attention, nor does it promise instant results. However, it can quietly transform an individual or a team or an organization. Here’s why it works. Imagine you want to learn piano. You’re excited, so you practice for four hours straight on day one. Then life … Continue reading The soft power of consistency →

Don’t make another resolution till you read this…

65% respondents said that they set a new year resolution or goal (My LinkedIn poll last week) Studies have shown that Gym memberships surge in January; ~12% new members join, but the attendance drops by ~50% by March. Only 9% report successfully sticking to their New Year resolutions by December. So how can we stay … Continue reading Don’t make another resolution till you read this… →

Tale of two roads to success

Imagine this: You’re on a road trip with your friends. You have meticulously planned every detail. The snacks are packed, the playlist is ready, and the route is set. But halfway through, your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. What happens next determines whether your trip is a tale of triumph or frustration.Success … Continue reading Tale of two roads to success →

Behind talent

Last weekend, I went to a music concert with friends. The ambiance was magical; one artist stayed with most of us—the sarangi player. As his fingers danced effortlessly on the strings, the hall resonated with melodies.“Wow! He is so talented!” we exclaimed, marvelling at the ease with which he created magic.The next day, I was stuck … Continue reading Behind talent →

Growth mind-set in action

It happened more than two decades ago, but I vividly remember the emotions: sense of failure and melancholy.I was facilitating a session on Key Account Management for the first time. I had prepared for it for days. By lunch, the participants were walking out of the room! They found the session extremely boring. My manager … Continue reading Growth mind-set in action →

Who is your best competitor?

Who is you best competitor? Spoiler alert – its closer than you imagineAs I went for my morning walk today, I started comparing my pace with others. “Oh, that elderly man has moved ahead of me, am I slower than him? Really?”Few minutes later, I caught myself… I was astounded… I was competing for something totally … Continue reading Who is your best competitor? →

Unfiltered – Authenticity – lesson 4

This was from the years when I first became a manager. We got a large project and I wanted it to be successful. I spoke a lot about pushing boundaries and encouraging creative work. However, I was also risk averse and wanted to stay anchored to the shore.Result?Whenever my team brought any bold ideas or … Continue reading Unfiltered – Authenticity – lesson 4 →