Today, I was trying to close a business deal with one of the biggest coaching institutes in India for design-related courses. I was prepared for a challenging negotiation process as the founder is sharp and tough, who is known for his Gujarati shrewdness and skilled negotiation tactics. While it may seem daunting, understanding the founder's negotiation style and employing effective strategies will hopefully lead to a successful agreement. Additionally, I note down the importance of maintaining professionalism and providing exceptional service in the face of tough negotiations.

The Founder: A Sharp Gujarati and a Tough Negotiator​

The founder of this prominent coaching institute is widely recognized for his sharp business acumen and tough negotiation skills. Being a Gujarati, known for their astute entrepreneurial spirit, he approaches negotiations with a strategic mindset and a strong focus on maximizing his interests. He skillfully layers his negotiation tactics, continuously threatening to jeopardize the deal if his conditions are not met. It is crucial to be well-prepared and equipped with effective negotiation strategies to navigate through his tough negotiating style.

Strategies for Successful Negotiation​

Focus on Mutual Benefits​

I tried to emphasize how the proposed partnership will benefit both parties. Demonstrating a win-win situation is crucial for a successful negotiation in service based deals.

Prepare for Counterarguments​

I tried to anticipate the founder's negotiation tactics and objections. I tried to give well-researched responses and was prepared to justify my terms and conditions.

Be Firm, Yet Polite​

Standing my ground on important aspects of the negotiation was crucial, but I always tried to maintain a polite and respectful tone. I hope this help preserve the relationship and foster a more collaborative environment.

Negotiating a business deal with one of the biggest coaching institutes in India can be a daunting task, particularly when faced with a sharp Gujarati founder known for his tough negotiation style. Remember, negotiation is an art, and practicing effective strategies will help us secure a favorable outcome while preserving a healthy business relationship. If it worked, only time will tell.

During shopping for shifting houses, I had an unfortunate encounter with Wooden Street, specifically with the store located in Golf Course Road, Gurgaon. With their upfront payment policy and promised delivery within 2 to 6 weeks, I was hopping to furnish my home with their stylish bed side tables and crisper chairs. However, my experience quickly turned sour when I faced consistent ghosting from their sales team and encountered frustrating customer support and archaic refund policies.

Ghosting by the Sales Team​

Upon placing my order, I expected some level of communication from Wooden Street to keep me informed about the progress of my purchase. Unfortunately, this was not the case. The sales team seemed to disappear completely after they had made the sale. Phone calls and emails went unanswered, and the promises of timely updates were broken. This lack of communication and transparency left me feeling frustrated and neglected as a customer. It is essential for any business to maintain consistent and open communication with their customers to build trust and ensure customer satisfaction.

Poor Customer Support​

When I finally managed to get in touch with Wooden Street's customer support team, I encountered further disappointment. The representatives appeared untrained and ill-equipped to handle customer queries effectively. They seemed unaware of the status of my order and failed to provide any concrete information. It was disheartening to realize that even after spending money, I was left to navigate through a maze of inefficient customer support. A prompt and knowledgeable customer support team is crucial in resolving customer issues and providing a positive shopping experience.

Refund Policies​

In addition to the lack of communication and poor customer support, Wooden Street's refund policies left much to be desired. Despite the delayed delivery of my items, the company was reluctant to provide a refund or any form of compensation for the inconvenience caused. This rigid approach to refunds is not customer-centric and fails to acknowledge the impact of their poor service on the customers. A more flexible and empathetic refund policy would go a long way in resolving customer grievances and maintaining a positive brand image.

My shopping experience at Wooden Street Golf Course Road Gurgaon was a disappointing one, marred by ghosting from the sales team, poor customer support, and unsatisfactory refund policies. As a customer, I believe that it is essential for businesses to prioritize effective communication, prompt support, and flexible refund policies. These factors play a significant role in building customer trust and loyalty.

I would really not like to buy anything from Wooden Street again due to this poor experience.​

There are certain childhood songs that hold a special place in our hearts and continue to resonate with us throughout our lives. One such song that embodies timeless wisdom and meaning is Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena. This beautiful Hindi prayer song, often sung during times of struggle or seeking inner strength, carries profound significance in our daily lives.

The Essence of Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena​

Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena is a prayer for inner strength, courage, and determination. It acknowledges that life can present challenges and hurdles, but with the power of a resilient mind, we can overcome them and find solace.

Meaning in Daily Life​

1. Resilience in Difficult Times: The song reminds us that difficulties are a part of life's journey. In times of adversity, we can draw upon the power of our minds to remain steadfast and resilient. It encourages us to face challenges head-on and find the strength within to persevere.

2. Seeking Inner Peace: "Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena" acknowledges the importance of finding inner peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of daily life. It serves as a reminder to nurture our minds, cultivating positivity, and seeking solace within ourselves.

3. Overcoming Fear and Doubt: The song encourages us to conquer our fears and doubts. It instills the belief that our minds have the power to dispel negativity, bolstering our confidence and enabling us to navigate uncertain situations with clarity and conviction.

4. Cultivating Self-belief: "Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena" emphasizes the significance of self-belief. It urges us to trust in our abilities and embrace the power within us. By harnessing our inner strength, we can overcome self-doubt, embrace our potential, and accomplish great things.

5. Connecting with Spirituality: The song carries a spiritual undertone, reminding us of our connection to a higher power. It serves as a reminder to seek guidance, strength, and clarity from within and from the divine source.

मुश्किलें पड़े तो हम पे इतना करम कर

साथ दे तो धरम का चले तो धरम कर

खुद पे हौसला रहे बड़ी से ना डरे

दूसरों की जय से पहले खुद को जय करे

हम को मन की शाक्त देना मन विजय करे

YouTube Quicklinks

1. Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena (Oringal)
2. Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena (A.R. Rahman Version)

In today's digital age, it's no secret that mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives. From waking up to going to bed, we are constantly surrounded by screens, checking notifications, scrolling through social media feeds, and engaging in various apps and games. But have you ever stopped to think about the profound impact these devices have on our brains? The dopamine loop induced by mobile phone usage has become a pervasive issue that deserves our attention.

The Dopamine Loop and Mobile Phone Addiction​

Mobile phones, with their vibrant screens, endless entertainment options, and constant notifications, are designed to capture our attention. They have become a source of instant gratification, triggering a release of dopamine in our brains—the "feel-good" neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.

Every time we receive a notification, unlock our phones, or engage in social media platforms, we enter into a dopamine loop. We get hooked on the anticipation of the next notification or the next swipe, seeking that small rush of pleasure that dopamine provides. This constant seeking of rewards leads to a compulsive desire to remain connected to our phones, often at the expense of real-life experiences and human interaction.

We get one of these little pings on our smartphones, and we get a little hit of dopamine as well. We get excited. We feel anticipation. As we feel this, we want it more and more. So we spend more and more time looking at our phones.​

Badminton Coach at Cultfit​

To illustrate the powerful grip of mobile phone addiction, let's consider the case of one of the badminton coaches at Cultfit, Gurgaon. Today morning at 6:30 am, when he should have been focusing on coaching and training, he was instead engrossed in playing a Garena or PUBG-like game. Rather than being present on the badminton court, he sat outside, eyes glued to his phone, caught in the virtual world.

Isn't it surprising how mobile phone addiction can infiltrate even the most unexpected areas of our lives? The coach's addiction to gaming not only affected his ability to fulfill his responsibilities but also set a poor example for his students. It emphasizes how we are all susceptible to the allure of mobile phones and the dopamine loop they induce.

Our addiction to mobile phones and the dopamine loop they induce is a societal issue that affects individuals across various age groups and professions. Recognizing the impact and consciously working towards breaking free from this addiction is essential for reclaiming our time, attention, and overall well-being. By setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and finding alternative sources of joy, we can regain control over our lives and establish healthier relationships with technology. Let's strive to break free from the grips of the dopamine loop and rediscover the beauty of genuine human connection.

We all agree that time is a valuable resource but promptness is often overlooked. Whether it's in our personal or professional lives, being prompt conveys respect for others' time and demonstrates commitment to efficiency and reliability.

Respecting time of others​

Being prompt is a powerful way to show respect to others. When we arrive on time for meetings, appointments, or social gatherings, we acknowledge that others' time is just as valuable as our own. By valuing punctuality, we foster a culture of respect and consideration, building stronger relationships and enhancing mutual trust and understanding.

Efficiency and Productivity​

Promptness goes hand in hand with efficiency and productivity. When we are punctual, we can make the most of our time and ensure that tasks are completed in a timely manner. This not only benefits us personally but also positively impacts the overall efficiency of teams, projects, and organizations. By respecting time, we contribute to a more productive and thriving environment.

Building Trust and Reliability​

Consistently being prompt enhances our reputation as reliable individuals. People are more likely to trust and rely on those who consistently deliver on their commitments and respect deadlines. In business, being punctual cultivates trust among clients, partners, and colleagues, strengthening professional relationships and increasing opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Embracing promptness is more than a mere display of punctuality; it is a powerful way to show respect for others and prioritize efficiency and productivity. By valuing time and being prompt in our personal and professional lives, we foster a culture of respect, trust, and reliability. Let us recognize that being prompt is not just a personal trait but a responsibility we owe to ourselves and the greater good. By respecting time, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, leading to more harmonious relationships, increased productivity, and a more successful and fulfilling life.

Life has a way of getting hectic, and sometimes, our favorite activities take a backseat. For me, writing and meditation have been two pillars of joy and self-expression. However, recently, I've been struggling to keep up with these practices. I will share my journey of rediscovering the joy of writing and meditation and present an action plan for the next 30 days to reignite these passions. I wish to embark on this journey of finding balance and nurturing my creative and mindful selves.

The Struggle to Keep Up​

Writing and meditation have brought me immense peace and fulfillment in the past. However, amidst the demands of daily life and a busy schedule, I found myself neglecting these activities. The joy and sense of accomplishment that writing and meditation once provided started to fade away. It became evident that I needed to prioritize these activities to regain the balance and serenity they brought into my life.

Action Plan for the Next 30 Days​

1. Establish a Routine: Consistency is key. Block out dedicated time slots each day for writing and meditation. Treat these activities as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as you get back into the groove.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your writing and meditation goals into achievable tasks. Whether it's writing a certain number of words per day or meditating for a specific duration, set goals that are realistic and attainable. Celebrate each milestone achieved to stay motivated.

3. Create a Sacred Space: Designate a peaceful corner in your home as your writing and meditation space. Personalize it with inspiring quotes, soft lighting, and comfortable seating. This dedicated space will serve as a sanctuary for your creative and reflective pursuits.

4. Embrace Mindfulness in Daily Life: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routines. Practice being present in the moment, whether it's savoring a cup of tea, taking a mindful walk, or engaging in deep breathing during moments of stress. This will help cultivate a sense of mindfulness beyond the dedicated meditation sessions.

Rediscovering the joy of writing and meditation requires dedication, intention, and a commitment to self-care. By implementing an action plan for the next 30 days, I hope to gradually reintroduce these activities into my life and restore the balance that they bring.

Finding time for what brings us joy and peace is an essential part of self-care and personal growth.​

In our fast-paced world, where distractions abound and mediocrity often prevails, the pursuit of relentless focus and impeccable quality in personal tasks is a rare and admirable trait. I have learnt this from my father, who embodies these qualities in his daily life. His unwavering dedication and commitment serve as a constant source of inspiration, reminding me of the profound impact that can be achieved through unwavering focus and a commitment to excellence.

Setting High Standards​

From as far back as I can remember, my father has consistently set high standards for himself in every task he undertakes. Whether it's completing a household chore, working on a personal project, or pursuing a hobby, he approaches each task with unwavering focus and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. His dedication to excellence serves as a guiding principle in all aspects of his life.

Attention to Detail​

Impeccable quality is a hallmark of my father's approach to personal tasks. He believes that no detail is too small to be overlooked, and he meticulously attends to every aspect of his endeavors. Whether it's a DIY project or preparing a meal, he invests time and effort in understanding the intricacies, ensuring that every element is executed flawlessly. This unwavering attention to detail is what sets his work apart and elevates it to a level of excellence.

Cultivating a Sense of Fulfillment​

One of the most remarkable aspects of my father's relentless focus and impeccable quality is the sense of fulfillment it brings him. Seeing him immersed in his personal tasks, fully present and engaged, is a testament to the joy that comes from pursuing excellence. His work not only showcases his talent and dedication but also brings him a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own ‘to-do’ list.​

College friends​

My uncle, Ashutosh Pathak and my father Abhay Parashar are junior and senior from Govind Ballabh Pant University.

At my cousin's wedding yesterday, many old friends of my uncle and father met after a long time. There's something magical about reconnecting with old friends, especially those from our formative years. After almost four decades, the opportunity to meet and reminisce with friends from engineering college is a truly remarkable experience.

Journey Down Memory Lane​

Reuniting with college friends transports them back to a time when they were young, full of dreams, and eager to conquer the world. As conversations unfold, anecdotes and shared experiences resurface, breathing life into forgotten tales. Laughter ensues as they relive the pranks, late-night study sessions, and adventures that once defined the college years.

The friends you make in college are friends you’ll have for life, even if you don’t talk for years at a time.​

Reflecting on Life's Twists and Turns​

As they engaged in heartfelt conversations, they discover the various paths friends have traversed. Some may have pursued illustrious careers, while others may have embraced different passions and pursuits. Each story is a testament to the diversity of life's choices and the resilience of the human spirit.

Meeting old friends from engineering college after nearly four decades is a rare and precious occasion. It offered them a chance to relive cherished memories, reconnect with kindred spirits, and appreciate the twists and turns that life has taken.

Celebrating Love and Togetherness​

Today, we gather to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Anagh Pathak and Sakshi as they embark on this incredible chapter of their lives. Their wedding, held at the elegant ITC Sheraton Saket, marks a joyous occasion filled with love, happiness, and cherished memories.

The ITC Sheraton Saket served as a stunning backdrop for your wedding festivities. Its exquisite ambiance and attention to detail created an atmosphere of elegance and enchantment. From the grand entrance to the meticulously decorated spaces, every aspect of the venue accentuated the beauty of your special day.

Embracing Freedom​

Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter in life, a time to pursue passions, relax, and explore the world. For many individuals, including my aunt, Preeti Gautam, retirement has become a gateway to embark on exciting travel adventures.

As all our family gathered for my cousin's wedding, we had a quick relaxing dinner with my aunt and my parents at my house. Impromptu, with no agenda - just conversations and breaking bread.