Guess what was the first use of a telescope? Not laboratory, but as a toy for children! In 1607, Hans Lippherhey, a Dutch spectacle maker put two lenses inside a cardboard tube. This simple gadget made faraway things look closer. It quickly hit fairs across Europe. Children loved playing with it. Couple of years later, … Continue reading Curiosity and open-mindedness
Can too much discipline break a habit?
Professor Katy Milkman from Wharton conducted a large scale field experiment in 2017-18 in collaboration with 24 Hour Fitness, a gym chain in the US. It involved over 2500 participants across multiple locations. The experiment focused on the question: Strict schedules or flexible routines: What builds lasting habits? 🔬 Participants were randomized into two groups, … Continue reading Can too much discipline break a habit?
Monday Morning Meeting
Do you like Monday morning meetings?I do as a manager! For me, it is a good way to kick-start the week: take a quick progress update and discuss priorities for the week.I shifted away from Monday morning meetings, when I got feedback from a team member few years back. She said, “Padma, let’s plan our … Continue reading Monday Morning Meeting
Just joined the corporate world?
Have you just entered the corporate world?Or in the first few years of your career?The excitement is palpable: new experiences, new people, and a lot to learn.However, it can also feel overwhelming. How do you make the right impression? How do you build strong relationships with your manager, seniors, or even peers? How to share … Continue reading Just joined the corporate world?
The dragonfly moment
It was a warm, sun drenched winter afternoon. The garden outside was bursting with colour. I curled up near the bay window with a book in my hand.Soon, a buzzing sound broke my focus. A dragonfly was trapped inside the room. It was desperately trying to escape through the glass window. It flew toward the … Continue reading The dragonfly moment
Can we overcome this menace?
I was in Lonavla last weekend, a perfect monsoon escape — misty hills, rain showers dancing in and out. We sat at a cozy restaurant for lunch.Few tables away, a young couple were trying to pacify their restless 2-year-old. The child refused food and was crying. After sometime, I realized the child has gone quiet.He … Continue reading Can we overcome this menace?
Fear…
A couple of months ago, I asked my 80-year-old mother to join me for a short walk inside our condo complex. Just a few steps outside. She refused.She said, "What if I fall? What if it leads to complex health issues?"She stays indoors, not because she can’t step out, but because she fears what might … Continue reading Fear…
Inspiring leader
Ever worked with a boss who inspired you? They probably did these 5 things.Imagine you have created a proof of concept for a new solution.You present it to your leader, let’s call her Sonia. She listens to your presentation and finally says, “I appreciate your efforts in putting this together. However, I am not comfortable … Continue reading Inspiring leader
When everyone says YES
You share an idea in the meeting and people start nodding:“That’s a brilliant idea!”“Absolutely, let’s get started.”“This could really move the needle.”“Totally agree.”“Wow, love it!”It feels like a win! If you are the senior most person in the room, it's time to PAUSE.Ask yourself the reasons for YES. There are two possibilities here:1. Your idea … Continue reading When everyone says YES
Social media
Tara is a young woman whose husband has slipped into coma after a car accident. Played by Kalki Koechlin in Waiting, overwhelmed and alone, Tara says,“You know how many followers I have on Twitter? - 5800.How many are there with me here: zero"This statement underscores the digital world we live in today. We boast of … Continue reading Social media
Perspectives 