Swimming endurance​

Over the past year, I have dedicated myself to improving my swimming endurance, and the results have been truly remarkable. Through consistent training and a determined mindset, I have transformed from a novice swimmer to someone capable of tackling long distances with ease. It all started with small, achievable goals that gradually pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I began by swimming a few laps each session, gradually increasing the distance week by week. I incorporated various drills and exercises into my routine, focusing on building strength, technique, and stamina. With each passing month, I felt my lungs expand and my muscles adapt to the demands of the water. The initial fatigue and breathlessness were gradually replaced with a sense of resilience and power. I can now proudly say that I can swim for extended periods without experiencing fatigue, allowing me to enjoy the water and explore new horizons with confidence. Building my swimming endurance over the past year has not only improved my physical fitness but also instilled in me a sense of accomplishment and the belief that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

The water is your friend...you don't have to fight with water, just share the same spirit as the water, and it will help you move.​

100km in 2023​

I started swimming from February 2023, and I took me 64 sessions to complete 100km.

Audible usage stats​

I have been a member of Audible Premium Plus since March 2019 i.e. 1500+ days or a bit over 51 months. Except a few months, Jan-Feb 2021 and Oct-Dec 2021, I have continued the membership.

I have listened to a total of 29 audio books i.e. only 65% of the credits. I have listed them below monthwise.

Audible membership model​

Subscriptions are the only business model that is entirely based on the happiness of your customers. Think about it—when your customers are happy, then they’re using more of your service, and telling their friends, and you’re growing.

Most membership models are structure that the light-users subsidize the power-users. Be it your gym, club of the society or cult fit membership. Audible is no different and structures it via its policies.

Reading through the Audible India Service Conditions of Use, you will realize that:

• Credit Rollover Limit: Customers can roll over a maximum of 5 credits i.e. next month's credits = max (previous month's credits + 1 - credits used, 6)
• Any unused credits remaining on your account at the time of cancelation, or when your prepaid period ends, will be lost. We recommend using them first, as any audiobooks you purchase are yours to keep.

My Audible habits​

I have observed the following about my usage of Audible:

• Listening to a book is best done along with a long walk. I can walk for an hour and listen to a book and retain most of it.
• In Nov 2022, Apple introduced fee on in-app purchases. Post that, you cannot buy books from the Audible iPhone app. It is really painful and annoying.
• I only use the Audible App on my iPhone and have not tried it out on the TV, Windows (I use the Spotify Desktop app a lot).

Listening to a book is not only just as good as reading it. Sometimes, perhaps even often, it’s better.​

Whatsapp is the new SMS​

Whatsapp has deteriorated significantly in the last few years. From a default secure chat, it has become an avenue for businesses to push for more products and services. There's nothing wrong in it, but add to it the almost infinite number of groups, it is better to not be on Whatsapp. I am thinking if now is the time. I keep my Whatsapp notifications on mute nevertheless.

In other words, I open my SMS application only to look for OTPs. I am thinking of doing the same with Whatsapp.

Whatsapp Spam Blast​

I have received the following business promotional messages in the last 24 hours - HDFC Bank, Jupiter, bbdaily, Prepladder, Clove Dental, 99 acres, Jumbaya.

I understand the businesses seeking the same as Whatsapp provides a great curated audience for push sales. I wonder, how much are the Whatsapp users enjoying the same.

Standardization of products​

The life of middle class India has transformed in the last 15 years. The standardization of products have compressed costs massively. Add to it, the growth in income, more people are able to afford a lot more products.

I tend to 'splurge' for convenience. I'll pay a lot to not waste time.

Standardization of services​

With Uber & Ola, we have standardized cab experience. With Urban Company, we have standardized AC and home cleaning experience. While they are great services, I share my sentiment about Finding a Taxi by Kunal Kamra.

How many of us love the experience of Blu over Uber due to the quality of cars?

With the convenience & goodness of an app comes the stagnation of average quality. Local experts who provide high quality & nuanced services stand out.

The standardization of service can sometimes lead to a reduction in quality. When businesses strive for consistency and efficiency by implementing standardized processes and procedures, it can inadvertently result in a decline in the quality of the service provided. Standardization often focuses on streamlining operations, minimizing variations, and increasing productivity, which can overlook the individual needs and preferences of customers. This can lead to a lack of personalization and a diminished customer experience. Additionally, standardized services may prioritize speed and cost-effectiveness over delivering exceptional quality, leading to a compromise in the overall value provided to customers. It is crucial for businesses to strike a balance between standardization and maintaining a high level of quality to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.

I recently got AC servicing done via Urban Company and found the experience average at best. Of course they have standardized the experience and compress costs, but by design, Experts would not stick around on the platform or marketplace. They will command a premium for their additional efforts and skill.

Bharat vs India​

Bharat and India are two distinct facets of the country, differing significantly in various aspects. Firstly, in terms of population density, India is densely populated, with bustling cities and towns teeming with people, while Bharat has a comparatively lower population density, with vast open spaces and scattered villages. Secondly, infrastructure and amenities vary greatly. India boasts of modern infrastructure, well-developed transportation networks, and access to healthcare and educational facilities. In contrast, Bharat often faces infrastructure challenges, limited access to basic amenities, and inadequate healthcare and educational resources. Another crucial difference lies in the lifestyle and occupations. India tends to have a more cosmopolitan and fast-paced lifestyle, with diverse professional opportunities in industries, services, and technology. Bharat, on the other hand, follows a predominantly agrarian lifestyle, with farming and agriculture as the primary occupations. Additionally, cultural practices and traditions may also differ significantly between rural and India. However, it's essential to note that both rural and India contribute to the country's social, economic, and cultural fabric, each offering unique strengths and challenges.

Digital access of Bharat vs India​

Bharat has grown leaps and bounds vs India in data consumption. Triggered by Reliance Jio’s entry in 2014, India’s data consumption has exploded with all other operators also offering cheap data tariffs. Mobile data traffic is growing as more Indians spend time streaming live videos, which is expected to account for 75% of overall mobile traffic by 2024. Read more.

Digital transactions in India​

The table below rehashes the, Digital Transactions in India report. Digital Payment modes considered are: BHIM-UPI, IMPS, NACH, AePS, NETC, debit cards, credit cards, NEFT, RTGS, PPI and others.

BHIM UPI has emerged as the preferred payment mode of the citizens and has recorded 803.6 crore digital payment transactions with the value of ₹ 12.98 lakh crore in January 2023 => Average transaction value on UPI in Jan 2023 was Rs 1615.

Digital transactions learnings​

The following are important learnings from the above data:

1. UPI has massively increased the number of transactions, average transaction per person and reduce the average value of transaction i.e. introduced micro transactions.
2. CAGR of Count per person i.e. number of transaction per person in India is 27% i.e. doubling every 3 years.
3. It is shocking to see that the total value of Digital Transactions has a CAGR of 0%. The total transactions grew and peaked during Covid and shrank again.
4. The average number of transactions per person in a year are only 65 i.e. 5.4 transactions per person or one transaction every 2 months. I wonder how the stats will look if you take away the power users i.e. the top 1% of population.

Bharat and Financial Digital Services​

I met Neha Singh Rana who is the Chief Business Officer of Pay Point. Paypoint delivers financial services to the last mile i.e. they are GIG + Financial Services where they empower the dealers (independent contractors) to educate & enable transaction for their neighborhood. The services include - Kiosk Banking, M-ATM / AEPS, Instant Money Transfer, Pre-Paid Reloadable Cards, Bill payment & Recharges, Amazon Retail Store, PAN Card, Insurance, IRCTC & Travel Booking, Gift Vouchers & OTT. PayPoint claims to have a retail network of 64,000 shops and is one of the forefront players to do offline to online transformation for Bharat.

They are similar to e-Mitra in Rajasthan. Do you remember the days when we used to visit a shop for recharging the mobile phones in the early 2000s? If you step out a few kilometers outside the city and you will find people seeking help to perform transactions. I wonder how much of this digital literacy be disrupted by YouTube and similar platforms whereby Bharat will feel confident in performing financial digital transactions. They are very confident in browsing videos and navigating content in a very short span of time!

South indian food in Gurgaon​

I enjoy South Indian food, mostly for dinner and sometimes for breakfast. I visited Zambar, Ambience Mall on 1st May 2023 for lunch and Naivedyam, Suncity on 7th May 2023 for dinner.

South Indian cuisine is known for its unique flavors, spices, and vegetarian options. The cuisine is popular not only in South India but throughout the country and internationally. Rice is a staple food in South Indian cuisine, and it's often served with a variety of vegetable curries, lentils, or sambar. Dosa and idli are popular breakfast items made from rice and lentils and typically served with coconut chutney and sambar. Another famous South Indian dish is the masala dosa, which is a crispy crepe-like dish filled with a spicy potato filling. Chutneys are a vital accompaniment to South Indian dishes, and they come in different flavors, including coconut, tomato, mint, and onion. Some of the famous snacks in South India include vada, a savory fritter made from lentils and spices, and bajji, a deep-fried vegetable snack. South Indian cuisine is also known for its desserts, including payasam, a sweet milk pudding, and Mysore pak, a rich, crumbly sweet made from chickpea flour, ghee, and sugar. Overall, South Indian cuisine is a vibrant and diverse cuisine that offers an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to tantalize your taste buds.

Food by state​

South Indian cuisine is known for its diverse flavors, spices, and vegetarian options. Each of the five states - Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Telangana, and Kerala - has its own unique culinary traditions, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Below I compare the food of these states, highlighting their distinctive features and specialties.

1. Karnataka​

Karnataka is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, influenced by both Kannada and coastal cuisine. Some of the popular dishes in Karnataka include bisi bele bath, a spicy and aromatic rice dish cooked with lentils and vegetables, and Mysore masala dosa, a crispy dosa filled with a spicy potato filling. Akki rotti, a rice-based flatbread, is another popular dish, especially in rural areas.

2. Andhra Pradesh​

Andhra Pradesh is known for its spicy and tangy cuisine, heavily influenced by the Telugu cuisine. The most popular dish in Andhra Pradesh is the spicy and tangy Hyderabadi biryani, a rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables, saffron, and spices. Another popular dish is Gongura pachadi, a tangy chutney made from Gongura leaves, which are sour and add a distinct flavor to the dish. Andhra-style seafood dishes, especially prawn curry, are also famous.

3. Tamil Nadu​

Tamil Nadu has a diverse culinary tradition with vegetarian dishes as the highlight. The state is known for its use of tamarind, coconut, and curry leaves in its dishes. Idli and dosa are the popular breakfast dishes, and sambar is a common accompaniment. Chettinad cuisine from the southern part of the state is famous for its spicy non-vegetarian dishes like chicken Chettinad and Chettinad fish curry. Pongal, a rice dish cooked with lentils and ghee, is a must-try dish from the state.

4. Telangana​

Telangana, the youngest state in India, has a cuisine that is a blend of Telugu and Hyderabadi cuisines. The state is known for its biryanis, especially the Hyderabadi biryani. The traditional dish of Telangana is the Sarva Pindi, a pancake made of rice flour and vegetables, usually served as a snack. Hyderabadi haleem, a popular Ramadan dish, is a stew made with wheat, lentils, and meat, cooked for hours with spices and ghee.

5. Kerala​

Kerala is known for its use of coconut and spices in its cuisine, which is primarily non-vegetarian. The state is famous for its seafood dishes like prawn curry, fish molee, and karimeen pollichathu. Appam, a pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, is a popular breakfast dish. Kerala-style biryanis, cooked with spices and coconut milk, are also famous. The state's traditional sadya, served during festivals, is a feast served on a banana leaf and consists of multiple vegetarian dishes, like sambar, aviyal, and payasam.

In conclusion, the cuisine of South India is diverse and rich, with each state having its unique flavors and specialties. Karnataka's spicy and flavorful cuisine, Andhra Pradesh's tangy and spicy cuisine, Tamil Nadu's vegetarian cuisine, Telangana's blend of Telugu and Hyderabadi cuisines, and Kerala's use of coconut and spices are all unique in their ways. Exploring the different cuisines of South India is a delight for foodies, and it's an experience that one should not miss. Bon appetite!

Your role as a boss​

The role of a boss in leading a team is crucial to the success of the venture. A boss is responsible for setting the tone and direction of the team and ensuring that everyone is working towards common goals. They need to be able to communicate effectively, inspire their team, and provide guidance and support as needed. A good boss also needs to be able to identify each team member's strengths and weaknesses and assign tasks accordingly, while providing opportunities for growth and development. Additionally, a boss must foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and respect within the team, and address any conflicts or issues that arise. Overall, the role of a boss in leading a team is to provide direction, support, and mentorship to ensure the team is working efficiently towards achieving their objectives.

No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.​

Your role as a leader​

The role of a leader in inspiring a team goes beyond just managing day-to-day operations. A leader sets the tone for the team, creates a vision, and inspires others to work towards that vision. Leaders inspire their team by empowering them, encouraging them to think creatively, and providing opportunities for growth and development. They also communicate effectively, actively listening to feedback and addressing concerns. Unlike a boss, who often focuses on delegation and control, a leader leads by example and earns the respect of their team through their actions. They prioritize collaboration, build relationships, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. A leader recognizes and values the unique strengths and talents of each team member and creates an environment that allows everyone to contribute and grow. In summary, while a boss focuses on managing tasks and delegating responsibilities, a leader inspires their team, encourages creativity and innovation, and fosters a collaborative culture that enables individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.

If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.​

Showing confidence in your team​

Showing confidence in your team is crucial to building a successful and productive team. When you demonstrate confidence in your team members, you are empowering them to take ownership of their work and make decisions that can positively impact the team's success. This also shows that you trust and respect their abilities and are willing to support them in achieving their goals. When team members feel confident in their abilities, they are more likely to take risks, share their ideas, and work collaboratively to solve problems. As a leader, it's essential to provide feedback and recognition for a job well done, which can boost team members' confidence and motivate them to continue performing at a high level. When you show confidence in your team, it creates a positive work environment and can lead to increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and overall team success.

Today was one such day, where I entrusted my team to rise from within and break the barriers. A lot of times, communicating the ask to your team depicts your confidence in them. I hope that my team breaks through and kicks ass soon!

Many ideas grow better when transplanted into another mind than the one where they sprang up.​

Old friends​

Today, I caught up with Suresh Singh who is the founder of ConnectedH and Entrepreneur India 35U35. He is also my batch-mate from IIMB and our rooms in campus used to be opposite to each other. Amongst other things, Suresh is also passionate about Cricket, cars & bikes and photography.

Meeting old friends can be a heartwarming and nostalgic experience. It's an opportunity to catch up with people who were once a big part of your life and reminisce about old memories. Seeing how everyone has grown and changed over time can be both surprising and comforting. Even if it's been years since you've last seen each other, the bond of shared experiences and history can quickly bring back a sense of familiarity and closeness. It's a chance to laugh, share stories, and reconnect on a deeper level.

Startups are tough​

Startups are tough because they require a significant amount of effort and resources to get off the ground. Starting a business from scratch means there is no established brand, no existing customer base, and often no revenue. Founders need to wear multiple hats and handle various tasks such as product development, marketing, sales, fundraising, and more. There is also a high level of uncertainty and risk involved in starting a new venture. It's common for startups to fail, and even successful ones face significant challenges along the way. This pressure can take a toll on founders' mental health and personal lives. Building a successful startup requires a combination of vision, hard work, resilience, and a bit of luck. While the journey can be challenging, the potential rewards of creating something impactful and meaningful can make it all worth it.

Meeting Suresh was nice to share the journey of building something from 0 to 1. It takes time and is a noisy process. Sometimes things work and sometimes they don't. What's worth appreciating is the journey and the fearless spirit of founders. More power to you, Suresh! All the best!

Energy drainers​

Everyday, I encounter people and situations that uplift or drain my energy. Energy drainers are individuals, situations, or circumstances that have a negative impact on our physical, emotional, or mental well-being, leaving us feeling exhausted, stressed, or emotionally depleted. Dealing with energy drainers is crucial to maintain my productivity, positivity, and mental health.

Setting boundaries​

Setting boundaries means establishing limits on what I am willing to tolerate and communicate them assertively to others. Setting boundaries helps in avoiding situations that drain energy and empowers me to take control.

Dealing with energy drainers is essential for well-being and happiness. By identifying them, setting boundaries, practicing self-care, surrounding myself with positive people, and practicing gratitude, I can manage energy drainers better. It is essential to remember that I have the power to control my thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and that I can choose to live a life free from energy drainers.

Outdoor running​

I did my first 5km outdoor run of 2023 yesterday. It took me 34:34 to do 5 km run on the road in Gurgaon. It was an easy run and my objective for the month of May 2023, is to make running a habit.

Run Stats:

Distance: 5 km

Time: 34:34

VO2 max: 38.6

Avg. pace: 06'53"/km

Heart rate zones while running​

The run was a stretch, not unbearable but not effortless too. Running 5 km after a long break was challenging. After months of inactivity, I expected to experience some discomfort during the run. However, after I got into the rhythm, my body began to adapt and I found myself feeling more energized and alive.

VO2 max measures how much oxygen (usually in milliliters) you breathe in while exercising as hard as you can. The more oxygen you inhale, the more energy your body can use. Higher VO2 max usually means better physical fitness.

Heart rate zones are an essential factor to consider while running, as they help in optimize training and improving overall fitness level. Heart rate zones are determined by the percentage of maximum heart rate, which varies based on age and fitness level. Typically, there are five heart rate zones, ranging from very light to maximum effort. Each zone has different benefits and targets different physiological systems in the body. For example, running in the lower heart rate zones can help to improve endurance and fat burning, while running in the higher zones can improve speed and anaerobic capacity.

From the workout stats, I have set the goal of doing 5km runs regularly in May 2023 to reduce the percentage time spent in Maximum zone to 20% or less while maintaining similar overall time. In a lay man's terminology, it means I intend to make running 5km effortless so that my heart rate stays within reasonable zones.

Heart rate zones while swimming​

I had logged my heart rate zones while swimming in my blog My first 5 km swim on 9th April 2023. The major difference between the swim and run is the percentage time spent in Heart Rate Zone 5, while doing an intense swimming session, I only spent 12% time in the Maximum Zone while.

Nike Winflo 9​

I was gifted Nike Winflo 9 on my birthday by my sister in law, Avani Parashar. They are a great pair of training shoes for running up to 10 km in a go. They are also good for running on the asphalt road.