Ever noticed what a butterfly does when it rains?It finds a safe spot—tucked behind a leaf, beneath a flower, under a branch—and wait it out. Once the skies clear, it takes off again—graceful and alive.In our work and lives, we all go through unexpected storms: a failed project, an unexpected lay-off, illness, a personal setback … Continue reading Pause…
REEL vs REAL LIFE
A few days ago, I was scrolling through social media when I came across a post from a friend. She had just returned from a jungle safari. The pictures were incredible—especially the close-up of a tiger. In the next post, she shared her excitement about an upcoming trip to the US. There were also snapshots … Continue reading REEL vs REAL LIFE
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