A dog shakes it off​

If you're a dog owner or have spent time around these furry companions, you've likely witnessed the peculiar and amusing behavior of a dog shaking off. Whether it's after a bath, a swim, or just waking up from a nap, dogs often perform a vigorous shake that seems both comical and intriguing.

Amongst other things dog shake off their body to:

1. Removing Irritants and Debris​

Dogs explore the world with enthusiasm, which often results in them picking up unwanted irritants and debris in their fur. Shaking off helps them remove these irritants, such as dust, grass, pollen, or even pesky insects. It's their instinctive way of keeping their coats clean and free from potential discomfort.

2. Muscle Relaxation and Stress Relief​

Believe it or not, shaking off can also serve as a form of muscle relaxation and stress relief for dogs. Similar to humans who stretch or shake their bodies to relieve tension, dogs release built-up stress and tension through shaking. It's a natural way for them to shake off any anxiety or excess energy, promoting a sense of relaxation.

I had a long day, with lots of energy draining conversations. Pestered, I decided to end the day with a 5 km run and shake off all the debris, negative energy from my mind. Also, there's something about a km of running which makes you feel energized and invigorated.

Remember to find a way to shake it off when the day gets the better of you.​

Swimming in May 23​

May 2023 was a good month of swimming for me. Despite battling the flu and dealing with the unexpected closure of the pool for maintenance, I managed to push through and complete a total of 22 swimming sessions.

Making the most of limited time​

I decided to increase the minimum swim session to 1.5 kms from the earlier minimum of 1 km. So in May 2023, I did 20 sessions of 1.5 kms and 2 sessions of 2 km each.

Swimming in May 2023​

It has been a satisfying month with significant growth in my ability to swim.

Swimming keeps on teaching me valuable life lessons about resilience, celebrating small victories, and making the most of limited time.

The notable improvement is in both Avg Swim Distance per session (km) and Swim Time per km compared to swimming in the last 3 months (Feb-23 to Apr-23). I hope to improve further in the next 3 months.

B2B business with SMBs​

In the complex world of B2B business in India, there are several challenges that companies face, one of them being ghosting and difficulties in collections. Ghosting refers to the sudden disappearance or unresponsiveness of customers, leaving businesses in a state of uncertainty. This phenomenon can significantly impact cash flow and hinder business growth. Moreover, the collection process from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) comes with its own set of challenges, making it crucial for companies to navigate these issues effectively.

Ghosting in B2B​

Ghosting can be a frustrating and all-too-common occurrence in the B2B landscape. It often happens when a customer abruptly ceases communication, leaving businesses unsure of the status of a deal or pending payment. This behavior can be attributed to various reasons, such as financial troubles, internal issues, or even communication breakdowns. Regardless of the cause, ghosting can have a detrimental effect on a company's financial health and overall operations.

Collections from SMBs​

Dealing with SMB collections can be particularly challenging due to a variety of factors.

Lack of Financial Resources​

Many SMBs operate on tight budgets and may struggle to pay their invoices promptly. Limited financial resources and cash flow issues can result in delayed or missed payments.

Inefficient Payment Processes​

SMBs often lack well-established accounting systems and standardized payment procedures. This can lead to delays, errors, and confusion in the collection process, making it harder for businesses to track and receive payments on time.

Communication Barriers​

Effective communication is crucial for successful collections, but language barriers and miscommunication can hinder the process when dealing with SMBs. Cultural differences and varying business practices also play a role, further complicating the collection efforts.

Today, I realized that we got ghosted by one of the long term customers of Exambazaar (Director of Trishul Defence Academy). He was communicating with us but kept on lying about the financial troubles, health issues in family and finally went cold. Obviously it doesn't feel great to waste time, energy and resources.

Hence, I have kept a principle of saying no very quickly to all sales and business development teams. With that clarity, any further efforts from them are purely their choice and investment of time & resources.

Dark clouds​

In their presence, the sun's rays retreat, Day turns to twilight, a world incomplete. A symphony of gloom, their whispers weave, Whispering secrets that none can perceive.

Dark clouds, Gurgaon 27-May-2023

But amidst the darkness, a silver lining shines, A reminder of hope, as fate intertwines. For after the storm, light will emerge, Chasing away the clouds, as they diverge.

In our fast-paced and demanding world, it's crucial to prioritize self-care and find moments of respite. Today, I decided to dedicate my Sunday to rest and relaxation, allowing myself to fully unwind and recharge. It was a day filled with simple pleasures, where I indulged in the blissful art of doing nothing. Join me as I recount the serenity and tranquility that a lazy Sunday brought into my life.

Embracing the Slumber​

To kickstart my day, I let go of the usual early morning hustle and allowed myself the luxury of an extra hour of sleep. The warmth of the morning sun filtering through the curtains added a touch of serenity to my cozy cocoon. Embracing the silence, I snuggled deeper into the comfort of my bed, savoring the sweet moments of uninterrupted slumber.

Honoring the Art of Doing Nothing​

Throughout the day, I embraced the liberating notion of doing nothing. Free from the pressure of obligations and deadlines, I allowed myself to simply be. Whether reclining on a cozy chair, gazing at the world passing by, or savoring the delicate flavors of a cup of tea, I relished in the present moment. In this tranquil state, my mind unwound, and my spirit rejuvenated.

By giving myself permission to rest and rejuvenate, I experienced a sense of deep relaxation and inner peace. This respite from the bustling pace of life reminded me of the importance of self-care and the rejuvenating power of stillness. In a world that constantly demands our attention, dedicating a day to laziness can be a transformative act of self-love.

Moving into a new apartment is an exciting milestone, filled with the promise of a fresh beginning. As I am preparing to settle into my new rental apartment in Gurgaon, I embarked on a furniture shopping journey to transform empty spaces into a cozy and inviting home. I explored the top three rental stores in India - Urban Ladder, Pepperfry, and Wooden Street - and how I carefully curated a collection of furniture to align with my style and needs.

Simplicity carried to an extreme becomes elegance.​

The Quest for Quality and Style​

With a clear vision in mind, I set out to find furniture that blended both quality craftsmanship and stylish aesthetics. Urban Ladder, known for its contemporary designs, offered a wide selection of furniture options. From elegant sofas to chic dining sets, I discovered pieces that resonated with my personal style, ensuring a seamless integration with the overall ambiance of my new apartment.

Sales Expert: Ritika Gupta - 9521420831

Exploring Pepperfry's Vast Collection​

Pepperfry, renowned for its vast collection of furniture, became my next destination. Browsing through their online store, I was delighted to find an extensive range of furniture, catering to various tastes and preferences. With each click, I explored the diverse options available for my bedroom, living room, and dining area. Pepperfry's commitment to providing furniture at affordable prices made it an ideal choice for furnishing my new space.

Sales Expert: Ravi Vaid - 8221009225

The Wood Craftsmanship of Wooden Street​

Seeking timeless pieces crafted with the beauty of wood, I turned to Wooden Street. Their reputation for exceptional woodwork and attention to detail intrigued me. As I perused their collection, I fell in love with the elegance and durability of their furniture. From intricately carved bed frames to sturdy wooden wardrobes, Wooden Street offered me the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Sales Expert: Arif Khan - 9773313477

Coordinating Deliveries for Moving Day​

To ensure a seamless transition into my new apartment, I meticulously coordinated the deliveries of my chosen furniture from all three stores for 10th June, my moving-in date. This allowed me to plan my move with ease, knowing that everything I needed to create a comfortable living space would arrive on time.

The Joy of Personalization​

Beyond the convenience of shopping from top rental stores, I relished the opportunity to personalize my furniture choices. I carefully selected colors, fabrics, and finishes that resonated with my taste and complemented the overall theme of my apartment. By infusing my unique style into the furniture selection process, I was able to create a space that felt truly like my own.

Furniture should always be comfortable. And always have a piece of art that you made somewhere in the home.​

As I eagerly anticipate the next chapter of my life in my new rental apartment in Gurgaon, the process of furniture shopping proved to be an exhilarating journey. Through exploring Urban Ladder, Pepperfry, and Wooden Street, I discovered a wide range of high-quality furniture options that aligned with my style and needs. Coordinating the deliveries for my moving-in date added an extra layer of excitement, ensuring that my new home would be furnished and ready to welcome me from the moment I stepped through the door. With each carefully chosen piece, I am one step closer to creating a haven that reflects my personality and nurtures a sense of belonging.

Moving to a new city is an adventure that often entails furnishing a new living space. Seeking convenience and flexibility, I opted for the Furlenco Unlmtd plan upon shifting to Gurgaon in 2021. Today, I am sharing my experience with Furlenco's customer support, their unfair refund practices, and the persistent technological challenges that plagued their app and website. As an early adopter of the Furlenco Unlmtd plan, my hopes were dashed as I encountered numerous obstacles along the way.

The Promise of Furlenco Unlmtd​

When I first subscribed to the Furlenco Unlmtd plan, I was enticed by its unlimited furniture rental option, providing the flexibility to change and upgrade my furniture as needed. The convenience of hassle-free renting, combined with a curated selection of furniture, seemed like the perfect solution for my furnishing needs.

Technological Mishaps​

Furlenco's technological infrastructure proved to be unreliable. Their app and website frequently encountered glitches and errors, making it a cumbersome experience to manage my subscription, schedule deliveries, or even browse through their furniture catalog. The persistent issues with their technology undermined the convenience they promised and left me feeling helpless in my attempts to resolve any issues.

Customer support woes​

Perhaps the most exasperating aspect of my experience was dealing with Furlenco's customer support. Upon reaching out for assistance, I encountered long wait times, unresponsive representatives, and a lack of empathy towards my concerns. The inability of their customer support team to effectively address my grievances only added to my growing frustration.

My experience with Furlenco's Unlmtd plan, customer support, and technological mishaps has been a challenging one. From encountering unfair refund practices upon cancellation to grappling with persistent glitches in their app and website, my hopes for a seamless and convenient furniture rental experience were shattered. As an early adopter, I expected better treatment and a smoother journey. Through this ordeal, I urge others to approach such services with caution, conducting thorough research and weighing all aspects before making a commitment. Transparency, fairness, and robust technological infrastructure are vital components of a reliable and customer-centric service, and sadly, Furlenco fell short in these areas.

In today's interconnected world, businesses are constantly seeking effective and efficient ways to communicate with their customers. WhatsApp, being one of the most popular messaging platforms, provides a seamless channel for reaching a wide audience. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of WhatsApp API-based messaging and guide you on how to leverage the Vonage API to unlock the full potential of this powerful communication tool.

Understanding WhatsApp API-based Messaging​

WhatsApp API-based messaging allows businesses to integrate WhatsApp's features and capabilities into their own applications, enabling direct and personalized communication with customers. With this integration, businesses can send notifications, conduct customer support, and facilitate transactions, all within the familiar WhatsApp environment.

Introducing Vonage API​

Vonage API (formerly known as Nexmo) is a leading cloud communications platform that offers a comprehensive set of APIs to enable communication via various channels, including SMS, voice, and, importantly, WhatsApp. Vonage API provides a straightforward and user-friendly solution for integrating WhatsApp into your business operations.

Integrating WhatsApp API-based messaging into your business operations can revolutionize the way you communicate with customers. By utilizing the Vonage API, you gain access to a robust and reliable platform that simplifies the integration process and provides a range of features and functionalities. Explore the power of WhatsApp API-based messaging with Vonage API and unlock new possibilities for personalized customer engagement and streamlined communication.

Managing emotions​

Pesky little disappointments seem to pop up when we least expect them. Maybe you didn't get that promotion you were hoping for, or you could not grab a tea because of other's not preferring it. Whatever it is, fret not, my friend! Dealing with small disappointments with style and grace is the way to go.

Embrace the "Oopsie Daisy" Attitude​

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs at us, and small disappointments are like those cute little bloopers that keep things interesting. Instead of dwelling on them, try adopting the "oopsie daisy" attitude. Laugh it off, shrug your shoulders, and say, "Well, that didn't go as planned, but hey, that's life!" Remember, laughter is the best medicine, even for disappointment.

Find the Silver Lining​

very cloud has a silver lining, my friend, and disappointments are no different. When life hands you a lemon-flavored disappointment, squeeze out that silver lining and make some zesty lemonade. Didn't get that promotion? Maybe it's a sign that an even more amazing opportunity is waiting just around the corner. The key is to look for the lessons and hidden blessings in every disappointment. Trust me, they're there!

Shake It Off, Shake It Off​

As our good friend Taylor Swift says, "Shake it off!" Sometimes, the best way to deal with a small disappointment is to channel your inner dancing queen and shake off that negative energy. Crank up your favorite feel-good tunes, bust out your dance moves, and shake away those disappointments like nobody's watching. Trust me, it's impossible to stay disappointed when you're getting down to the beat!

Small disappointments may try to rain on your parade, but armed with these tips, you'll be twirling your umbrella and dancing in the rain. Embrace the oopsie daisies, find those silver linings, treat yourself like a rockstar, lean on your support squad, shake off the negativity, and keep dreaming big!

Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training​

Today, I met the business team of Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training and enjoyed the conversation with them. Frankfinn is the World's No. 1 Air Hostess Training Institute and offers courses in the field of Aviation, Hospitality, Travel and Customer Service. You might have seen Alia Bhatt in one of Frankfinn ads.

At its core, Frankfinn offers a comprehensive range of certificates courses to students aspiring for a career in the Aviation, Hospitality, Travel and Customer Service sectors. They offer placement assistance but do not guarantee placements.

Scale of business​

Some of the stats shared were mind boggling and are worth double-clicking. I am enumerating them below:

• Frankfinn has an in-house student counselling team of 1000 callers
• Online to offline flow of student leads is: unqualified lead -> 3 connects within 24 hours -> 5 connects within 48 hours -> Appointment for Center Visit
• They have appetite to consume 6 Lakh leads a month. Let's pause for a minute and think about the magnitude of that.
• They get around 4500-6000 admissions a month i.e. a conversation rate of 0.75%.
• The courses vary between Rs 1,20,000 to Rs 1,65,000
• Estimated annual revenue is ~ Rs 800 crore

Monopoly player​

Frankfinn does not face a lot of competition in the market. It is one of the few players who operate in this niche. Being founded in 1990s, Frankfinn bring 30 years of experience in the domain with network connections. But such profit pools are tough to defend. Especially with the disruption in Edtech, I will try to deepdive about it in another post.