Have you ever had that gut feeling about something - whether it's deciding on a job offer or choosing a new apartment - that you just can't seem to shake? You may ignore it and go with a more logical option, but somehow things just don't feel quite right. Well, this is where the "smell test" comes. It's not a literal test where you smell something, but rather a way to trust your intuition and make more sound decisions.

The "smell test" is essentially a way to check whether something seems trustworthy or reliable. It's that little voice in your head that tells you if something just doesn't feel right. And surprisingly, it's often more accurate than any extensive research or analysis. This is because our intuition is based on our past experiences and instincts, and it can pick up on things that our logical mind may overlook. It's a quick and efficient way to make decisions, especially when time is of the essence.

So, the next time you have to make a tough decision, don't just rely on logic and reasoning. Take a step back and give it the "smell test". Trust your gut and see if something seems off or not. You may be surprised by the accuracy of your intuition. As they say, "it cannot just sound clever, it must also feel right."

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Running out of time - It's a feeling that is all too common, specially for those of us who tend to be driven by goals and targets. We live in a culture that is obsessed with achieving success quickly, and it's easy to fall into the trap of constantly counting and comparing where we are with where we want to be. But the truth is, success takes time and effort. It's not a race, and we can't always have what we want immediately.

If you constantly focus on checking the clock, you will eventually run out of patience. Success doesn't come on a set timeline, and it's different for everyone. Instead, we should be focusing on putting in the hard work and dedication without counting the minutes, days, or weeks. It's important to trust in ourselves and believe that we are capable of achieving our goals. With determination and perseverance, success will come, but we have to be patient.

When you are going through the turmoil of no-time-and-a-fomo, remember that you are not alone. It's a common feeling, but it's important to shift your mindset and focus on the journey instead of the end result. Keep pushing forward and never give up, and success will come in its own time.

- Reference: Adapted from a quote by Zig Ziglar.

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Retirement - a word that brings to mind images of relaxation and freedom from the daily grind. But what does it truly mean? Is it simply the end of our working years, or is there more to it? In reality, retirement is a state of mind, a mindset that can be achieved regardless of age or financial status.

We often associate retirement with financial stability, but the truth is, it's not just about having enough money in the bank. It's about reaching a point where we can let go of the constant worry about tomorrow and start living for today. As the saying goes,

But how do we reach this state of retirement? It's not about making millions, but rather finding ways to decrease our expenses and increase our savings. By reducing our "burn rate" to zero, we can create a simple and stress-free lifestyle, allowing us to focus on enjoying the present moment.

However, the most important aspect of retirement is finding something we truly love and enjoy. Getting to a point where money is no longer the driving force behind our decisions. Whether it's a hobby, volunteering, or spending time with loved ones, retirement is about pursuing activities that bring meaning and fulfillment to our lives.

Start living for today. Let's not wait until our golden years to enjoy life, but rather find balance and happiness in the present. After all, as author Ernie Zelinski said,

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Are you tired of feeling down and lacking motivation? Do you find yourself constantly making excuses for your mistakes instead of learning from them? It's time to change the way you think and embrace a more positive mindset. A positive mindset is crucial for achieving success, whether it be in your personal or professional life.

Having a positive mindset not only increases your commitment to your goals but it also helps attract the right people around you. When you have a positive outlook, you'll attract like-minded individuals who share your drive and determination. These individuals will help motivate and support you in reaching your goals, creating a strong, supportive network that can give you a competitive edge.

But perhaps the most important aspect of a positive mindset is how it can change your attitude towards your mistakes. Instead of dwelling on them and making excuses, a positive mindset allows you to see your mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. Embracing a positive attitude towards your mistakes will help you turn them into valuable experiences, allowing you to find real solutions and move forward.

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to shift your mindset and embrace a more positive outlook. Remember, success starts with your mindset, so start focusing on the good and watch how it transforms your life for the better. Surround yourself with positive people and start using your mistakes as stepping stones towards success.

After all, as Henry Ford once said,

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Having technical skills is important, it is, no doubt about that. But what's even more important is having the ability to figure things out on your own. This is where the power of figuring out skills comes into play.

While technical skills are the foundation for any job, it's the figuring out skills that truly set you apart from the rest. These skills are not something that can be taught, but they come from within. They involve asking the right questions, being able to think critically, and having the determination to get things done.

In any high-profile work, things can go wrong at any moment. This is inevitable. That's when your figuring out skills come into the spotlight. Instead of blaming others or the situation, you take charge and try finding a solution. This is what truly impresses people and makes you stand out. Leads you into a leader. It's not about knowing everything, but rather your ability to figure things out when faced with challenges.

So, while technical skills may get you through the door, it's the figuring out skills that will take you to the top. Metaphorically, the branches in the tree are the outcomes of your technical skills. Short term, short sighted, fruitful. While the height and the top of the tree is due to the figuring-out skill. More strong, more beautiful, more experienced. You know how to go against the gravity. Against all the odds. Don't just be a skilled worker, be a master at figuring things out. And sooner or later, people will recognise and appreciate your unique abilities.

Reference - This idea was inspired by bestselling author and entrepreneur, Tim Ferriss.

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When we constantly feel the pressure of perfection and social approval, it's easy to get caught up in comparing ourselves to others and feeling inadequate. But the truth is, mistakes and embarrassing moments are what make us human and relatable. They allow us to connect with others on a deeper level and learn from our experiences. So instead of avoiding embarrassing situations, embrace them and see them as opportunities for growth.

There is no known vaccine for embarrassment, but that doesn't mean we can't fight it. By changing our perspective and being more accepting of ourselves, we can build confidence and resilience against embarrassment. So the next time you feel that familiar flush of embarrassment, remember that it's not fatal and use it as an opportunity to cringe, grow, and ultimately become a stronger, more confident individual.

Let’s spread it and encourage ourselves & others to stop worrying about perfection and embrace imperfections. After all, as the saying goes,

Let's embrace the cringe and use it as a stepping stone towards personal growth and self-acceptance. Ready to get vaccinated against embarrassment? Let's go!

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Remember playing snake and ladder as a kid? It was a game that many of us have loved, and it still continues to be popular game among children. You will be surprised in knowing how this simple board game accurately reflects the journey of our lives. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and just like this game, it can be both challenging and exciting.

Just like the snake and ladder game, our life is all about ups and downs. We climb up the ladder when we achieve something great, and sometimes we come crashing down like a snake. No matter how hard we try, there will always be moments of failure and triumph. It is during these times that we learn and grow as individuals, just like how the game teaches us to keep moving forward no matter what.

As we grow up, our lives become more complex, and we embark on different journeys and adventures. Just like the different number squares on the snake and ladder board, our lives are filled with different experiences that shape us into who we are.

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In today's society, the perception of wealth is often associated with material possessions, such as expensive cars, designer clothes, and luxurious homes. It's no surprise that we tend to equate looking rich with having a big bank account. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. As Justin Welsh points out in one of his posts,

Welsh shares a personal anecdote where he splurged on a BMW and was met with judgement and assumptions from others about his financial situation. He realized that true wealth is not about what you have, but rather how you manage and grow your resources. This raises the interesting question: can you look rich without actually having a lot of money? The answer is yes.

The key to looking rich is not about spending a fortune, but rather prioritising your spending and investing in yourself. This includes investing in your education, skills, and experiences, which will ultimately bring you more wealth in the long run. Additionally, making smart and intentional purchases, such as investing in quality, timeless pieces rather than constantly buying trendy items, can also help elevate your image without breaking the bank. As Welsh suggests, it's about creating the perception of wealth rather than trying to keep up with the Joneses.

It's easy to fall into the trap of equating possessions with wealth. However, true wealth comes from within and is not defined by material possessions. By focusing on personal growth and making smart investments, you can create the perception of being wealthy without actually spending a fortune. So next time you see someone driving a fancy car, remember that they may not be as rich as they appear.

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Leadership is not just about giving orders and making decisions, it goes far beyond that. A true leader not only leads but also prepares a team that can work without them being present. In today’s fast-paced world, this is what sets apart a good leader from a great leader. It’s their ability to build a team that is capable, independent and can sustain even in their absence.

Good leaders focus on their own personal growth, but great leaders believe in the growth of their team. They invest and nurture their team members, giving them opportunities to learn and grow, so that they can eventually take charge when needed. This enables the team to function smoothly and efficiently even when the leader is not present. The goal is to build a team that can stand and is not dependent on them.

They inspire, empower, and build a team. A team that is diverse, strong, and capable of working seamlessly without their leader’s constant supervision. It takes effort and dedication to create such a team, but the results are rewarding. A true leader's goal is not just to achieve success, but to create a legacy by building a strong and sustainable team.

Concluding, leadership is not just about taking charge and making decisions, it's about creating a foundation for a team to thrive. A true leader's goal is not to just lead but to create future leaders who can take the team forward even in their absence. As the saying goes, “A leader’s success is not measured by what they accomplish, but by the success of those they lead.” Let’s strive to be true leaders, who build and empower our teams to achieve greatness even without us.

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We often limit ourselves with negative self-talk, believing that we are not good enough or lack the necessary skills to achieve our goals. However, the truth is, we are capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. Our comfort zone may feel safe, but it also holds us back from reaching our full potential.

Just like a ship is built for sailing the ocean, we are meant to venture out of our comfort zone and take risks. It is only then that we can truly grow and discover our true potential. Yes, it may feel uncomfortable and scary at first, but that's just a sign that you are pushing yourself to be better.

So, the next time you doubt yourself and your abilities, remember that a ship is safer at its shore, but that's not what it was built for. Take a leap of faith, challenge yourself, and watch yourself achieve things you never thought possible. It's time to leave the safety of your comfort zone and embark on a journey towards success.

Reference: "The hardest part is taking that first scary step." - Rachel Meyer, certified life coach.

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We all struggle with staying disciplined in our lives. It's easier to give in to immediate gratification than to put in the extra effort for a better future. Staying disciplined is not just about self-control, but an act of service to your future self.

That's right, by reframing discipline as a service to our future selves, we can completely transform our mindset. Our future self is the most important stakeholder in our lives. They will be directly impacted by the choices we make today. Every hard thing we push ourselves to do now will compound into a better future.

But how can we shift our focus from the present to our future self? By bringing the "after" into the "before". This means reminding ourselves of how good we will feel after completing a task, even if it feels unpleasant in the moment. We often give in to excuses and convince ourselves that we can do it later, but that later never comes. By visualizing the future benefits, we can overcome our present temptations and be disciplined.

So the next time you feel like giving up or slacking off, remember that discipline is not just about self-control. It's a powerful act of service to your future self. Embrace discipline and bring the after into the before. You'll be amazed at how it can change your life for the better.

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Many of us strive for freedom in our lives. Whether it's financial freedom, freedom of time, or simply the ability to do what we want without constraint, it's a common desire. Yet, we often overlook one crucial aspect of achieving true freedom: discipline.

Without discipline, we may find ourselves in a constant cycle of working hard for financial stability, only to continue to be enslaved by the never-ending pursuit of more.

Discipline can take many forms, but at its core, it is about self-control and self-regulation. It's about making difficult choices and sticking to them, even when it may be tempting to give in to immediate gratification. While it may seem counterintuitive, it is this very discipline that leads to true freedom. By disciplining ourselves to make wise financial decisions, we can achieve financial freedom. By disciplining our time and priorities, we can gain the freedom to do what we truly want with our days.

So how do we cultivate discipline in our lives? It takes dedication and commitment to build new habits and break old ones. Start small and build momentum gradually. Set achievable goals and hold yourself accountable. And remember, discipline is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. Don't be afraid to seek support and guidance from mentors, coaches, or friends who can help you stay on track. With discipline, we can break free from the endless cycle of hard work and financial enslavement, and truly enjoy the freedom we desire.

As American entrepreneur and author Jim Rohn said, "Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment." So, if freedom is your goal, discipline is the key to achieving it. Embrace discipline, and watch as true freedom becomes a reality in your life.

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We all know the phrase "money can't buy happiness" and yet, why do we still desire it so much? In our society, money often equates to success and happiness. But the truth is, the more we have, the more we want. It becomes a never-ending cycle of wealth and desire, known as money lust.

As we make more money, we also tend to spend more. We upgrade our lifestyles, trying to keep up with the latest trends and luxuries. But this constant need for more creates a bottomless pit and you never get to the bottom. We become trapped in a chicken and egg situation, chasing after money to fulfill our desires, but never being satisfied.

However, breaking this cycle is possible. It all comes down to a simple solution - keeping our lifestyle in check. If we can resist the temptation to constantly upgrade, we can achieve financial independence. By avoiding the love for money, we can break free from the never-ending cycle of wealth and desire.

We all have a choice - to let our love for money consume us or to take control and achieve true financial independence. So, the next time you find yourself craving more money, remember the wise words of Benjamin Franklin,

Let's not let our desire for money sink us, but instead, let's strive for a balanced and fulfilling life. Or else the pursuit could be endless!

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Don't get too caught up in the past. While it can be tempting to look back on past successes or mistakes, the reality is that the past is just a reference point and not a place to dwell. Instead, it is important to focus on present and future. Use past as a guide to learn from the experiences and improve for the future.

In life, sometimes it's important to take a moment to reflect on what we did / went through earlier in order to move forward with more awareness and clarity. But constantly living in the past can hold us back from reaching our full potential. Just like in driving, if we spend too much time looking back, we may miss what's right in front of us and end up crashing. The rear view mirror in a car is for reference, but we do not drive only looking at it.

So don't let the rear view consume you, use it as a tool to glance back when necessary but always keep your focus on the road ahead. There's a reason why the windshield is bigger than the rear view mirror. Let's not let our past dictate our future, instead let's use it to drive towards our goals and dreams with purpose and determination.

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We all want to achieve success in your life, both personally and professionally? Well, day before, we talked about commitment and consistency, It is also important to have process in place. Yes, you read it right - a process, and we’re here to tell you why it’s so important.

Process is not something that should be feared, rather it should be embraced. It provides structure, consistency, and efficiency in our daily lives. Many of us have fallen into the trap of doing things without a clear process, thinking that it will save us time and effort. But in reality, not having a clear process only slows us down and hinders our progress.

Think about the long-term benefits of having a clear process. When we establish a system and stick to it, we are able to achieve more in less time. This not only boosts our productivity, but it also allows us to maintain a healthy work-life balance. And essentially, it becomes important to embrace process and strive for long-term success in everything we do!

Commitment, Consistency and now Process. These three are them gems that makes it easy to have long term gain. Commitment is about starting the race and staying to it, Consistency is about reaching the finish line and Process is about enjoying the journey of this race.

Reference: "Good to Great" by Jim Collins

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When we think about achieving our dreams and goals, we often focus on motivation, hard work, and determination. While these are important factors, there are two other crucial elements that often go overlooked - commitment and consistency. As the saying goes, "dreams without goals are just dreams", and without commitment and consistency, those dreams will likely remain unfulfilled. So, what exactly is the secret behind reaching our goals? It's a combination.

In order to achieve our goals, we must first be committed to them. What does that mean exactly? It means making a promise to ourselves to see things through, no matter what obstacles may come our way. Without commitment, we will never even take the first step towards our dreams. It's important to remember that commitment is not a one-time thing - it's an ongoing process of staying dedicated and focused on our goals, even when things get tough.

But commitment alone is not enough to reach our goals. Consistency is the key to unlocking our potential and achieving success. Without consistency, our efforts will be scattered and our progress will be limited. It's the backbone of any successful journey. By consistently showing up and putting in the work towards our goals, we build momentum and make tangible progress. Consistency may not always bring immediate results, but it will always bring long-term success.

Concluding: if you want to turn your dreams into reality, commitment and consistency are essential. Without commitment, you will never get started, and without consistency, you will never reach the finish line. So make a commitment to yourself and your goals, and then stay consistent in your efforts. Trust in the process and remember that it takes both time and effort to achieve greatness. Are you ready to take the first step towards reaching your goals?

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We've all experienced it - a song we heard playing in the background that immediately caught our attention and soothed our souls. It's like magic, the way it sinks into our minds and stays with us even after it's over. But what happens when the song suddenly stops playing? We find ourselves humming the tune, craving for it to return. This is the power of influence, and it's not just limited to music.

In life, we are surrounded by people - family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances. Each person we interact with has their own unique behaviors, actions, and words that can greatly impact us. Just like how a song can linger in our minds, the people we surround ourselves with can also influence our thoughts, beliefs, and behavior. We may not even realize it, but their actions and words may start to reflect in our own behavior.

It's essential to pay attention to the kind of influence we allow in our lives. Are the people around us lifting us up, inspiring us, and nurturing us? Or are they bringing us down, demotivating us, and influencing us in negative ways? It's important to surround ourselves with people who align with positivity. People who will encourage us to be the best version of ourselves.

So, choose wisely who you surround yourself with. Don't let negative influences hold you back and shape your inner being. Let positive influences lift you up and help you reach your full potential. Remember, just like how a good song can bring us comfort and joy, the right kind of people can help us grow and thrive.

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Luck plays a huge roll in our lives, but is it just about being at the right place at the right time? Many of us have grown up believing that luck is something that comes to us by chance, almost like something that cannot be controlled. However, upon closer examination, one will realize that luck cannot be achieved by just sitting around and hoping to strike it rich.

When we work extremely hard, learn to work smart and become good at what we do, that’s when we make our own luck. Opportunities present themselves to those who are deserving of them, and taking them is what creates destiny. Without the right attitude and determination, luck will never come knocking on our door. With time it becomes clear, that what may seem like luck to others is nothing but a result of our hard work and unending dedication.

This is what many successful people have realized over the years, from business moguls like Steve Jobs to professional athletes like Michael Jordan. These people all had one thing in common - they created their own destiny through their hard work, their character, and their determination. So, is it luck that finds us or is luck created by our own efforts? The answer seems to be the latter, and this is something that every individual should acknowledge. Keep working hard, keep pushing yourself, and luck will find its way into your life, and mould your destiny.

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No matter how much we plan and prepare, there will always be moments where we look back and think "I could have done that better." It's a natural part of the learning process, but it can also be frustrating. We wonder why we couldn't anticipate certain things and why we needed experience to understand them. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the ongoing battle between time and experience and how it affects our decision-making process.

Time and experience are two powerful factors that shape our actions and decisions. Time gives us the opportunity to learn and grow, to reflect on our past choices and improve for the future. Without time, we wouldn't have the chance to gain the experience needed to make better decisions. But at the same time, time can also be limiting. We may feel pressure to make quick decisions without the luxury of experience, and this can lead to mistakes and regrets.

So why is it that sometimes we can't anticipate certain things until we gain experience? It's because experience allows us to see things in a different light. We may think we have all the answers, but until we actually go through something and learn from it, we may not fully understand the complexities and nuances of a situation. Experience gives us a different perspective, and this can be essential in making better decisions in the future.

In the end, it's not at all about choosing between time or experience. We should appreciate time for what it offers us - the chance to learn, grow, and improve. And we should also embrace experience as a valuable tool in our decision-making process. So the next time you look back and think "I could have done that better," remember that it's all part of the journey of learning and growing.

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S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, said in his book The India Way:

In his view, it is essential to consider the changes and advancements in the global landscape to truly gauge our progress. As we strive towards growth and development, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of our performance.

This involves not only looking at our past successes but also looking to our global counterparts. A narrow focus on our history may give us a false sense of satisfaction and hinder our potential to become even better. To thrive in a constantly evolving world, we must be willing to think, communicate, and engage differently.

We should let go of old assumptions and embrace a new way of thinking. Only then can we truly elevate ourselves and become a force to be reckoned with in the international / diverse arena. We should break out of our comfort zone and take on the challenge of expanding our benchmarking perspective.

After all, as S Jaishankar puts it, "the future beckons us to do so." 💪🌎

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