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.

Summers in India​

Summers in India are notorious for their scorching heat and relentless sun. The mercury soars, leaving people seeking respite from the sweltering temperatures. It is almost impossible to be outside between 12 noon to 6 pm. It is 43 degree celsius in Gurgaon today.

Frequent visits in the sun lead to heat stroke (or लू लगना) and it can be very painful. Loo is a hot, dry wind that blows across the plains, intensifying the already high temperatures. This atmospheric phenomenon can be relentless, with temperatures soaring well above 40 degrees Celsius. The loo heat waves bring with them a sense of discomfort, as the hot gusts deplete the moisture in the air and drain energy from those caught outdoors. It becomes crucial to take precautionary measures, such as staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding outdoor activities during the peak hours. The loo heat waves serve as a reminder of the resilience required to endure the challenging but characteristically intense summers of North India.

Beat the heat​

To beat the heat, I have decided the following:

• Avoid being directly under sun from 11 am to 6 pm. Even a brief time under sun should be avoided.
• Drink atleast 3L of water everyday and keep a water bottle with you at all times.
• Wear cotton clothes which cover most of the body.
• Avoid sudden change of temperatures and direct AC air if coming from outside.

It is clear that the sudden change in weather are more frequent and it is important to stay safe during summers.

World rests on hope​

Hope is a deeply ingrained human emotion that keeps us optimistic and motivated in the face of adversity. It allows us to envision a better future and fuels our determination to overcome challenges. While hope can be a powerful force for maintaining a positive mindset, relying solely on hope as a strategy for achieving our goals can be detrimental.

Hope vs Action​

Hope, without action, is merely wishful thinking. While hope can inspire us and provide a sense of optimism, it does not guarantee any tangible results. Merely hoping for success, happiness, or fulfillment without taking proactive steps towards our goals can lead to disappointment and stagnation. To achieve meaningful outcomes, we must complement hope with intentional and consistent action.

Hope places the power of change outside of our control. By relying solely on hope, we surrender our agency and fail to take responsibility for our own circumstances. It is essential to recognize that hope alone cannot alter external factors or bring about desired outcomes. Instead, we must actively take charge of our lives, make informed decisions, and work towards our objectives with determination and perseverance.

Ignoring the writing on the wall​

Humans are inherently emotional beings, and our emotions often play a significant role in the decisions we make. One such powerful emotion is hope, which can profoundly impact our decision-making process. Hope is a positive emotion that drives us to envision a desirable future and motivates us to pursue our goals. It can provide us with a sense of optimism and resilience in the face of challenges. However, relying solely on hope can lead to irrational decision making, as we may base our choices on wishful thinking rather than a realistic assessment of the situation.

When it comes to evaluating people or situations, it is vital to focus on actual actions rather than what we hope them to do. Actions speak louder than words, and they provide a more accurate reflection of someone's character, intentions, and reliability. By objectively observing and analyzing the actions of individuals or assessing the viability of a situation, we can make more sound decisions and avoid disappointment caused by misplaced hope.

By evaluating the actions of people and situations objectively, we can make more informed decisions and minimize the impact of wishful thinking. Let us embrace the power of hope while remaining grounded in reality to ensure that our decisions are guided by both our emotions and rationality.

Residential retail broker model​

The residential brokers (individual or brokerage firms) act as intermediaries between tenants and owners in the residential real estate market. These brokers facilitate the entire home renting process, starting from property search and evaluation to negotiations, documentation, and closure of the deal. They provide personalized assistance, guidance, and expertise to buyers, helping them make informed decisions based on their preferences, budget, and market trends.

Nobroker doesn't work​

Nobroker came up with a novel concept of connecting the tenants and owners with the use of technology. Unfortunately, it is failing in delivering the said value. The primary reason is that it operates on a very thin value proposition of no-brokerage.

Consider a rental scenario in Gurgaon as below:

Apartment: 2 BHK Rent per month: Rs 50,000 Brokerage per party: Rs 25,000

The challenge is the number of visits involved and mutual agreement. Following observations hold true:

• The owners are usually affluent, occupied in work and less interested in showing the apartment to the tenants. Owners prefer outsourcing.
• Owners talk to each other on Whatsapp Groups and mutually decide the minimal rental and resale value of the apartment. This sets a floor on apartment rental and resale value and is inefficient.
• The tenants also optimize for travel time, cost, lifestyle and shift date of tenancy. Tenants look at annualized cost.
• Brokers bring in convenience and primarily convince the tenant to accept the rental offer. They usually have no bargaining power with the owners.

Efficiencies in rental market​

As a tenant, it is at times a nightmare to find an apartment. The following tips might help:

1. Optimize for your needs and do not forget your needs in the process of reviewing flats.
2. Make your broker work: find a good broker who understands your need and works out a set of options for you.
3. Save time by clubbing the viewings in a day or half day. Act fast if something fits your needs.
4. Keep a price band of rent in mind instead of only a budget. Work on both sides, for eg if your society does not have a good club, go for a Cult Fit membership instead.
5. If you like a society, find a way to get access to the MyGate/Apna Complex app feed of the society. Many a times owners and brokers post them in the group.

Despite challenges posed by digital platforms, traditional brokers have adapted and remain relevant by leveraging technology and focusing on fleet on street. As the real estate market evolves, residential retail brokers continue to be a crucial link between buyers and sellers, empowering individuals and families in their quest for a dream home.

Waving to strangers​

Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can have the most significant impact on our day. Recently, as I waved to strangers from my car on my way back from swimming on Golf Course Road Gurgaon, I experienced a delightful encounter that transported me back to my own childhood. The pure innocence and genuine happiness of a group of kids in an overcrowded school van, as they waved back with smiles and laughter, lifted my morning spirits. This heartwarming experience forces me to reflect on the power of simple gestures in brightening someone's day.

A flashback to my own childhood​

As I gazed out of the car window, memories from my own childhood came flooding back. I recalled the days when I traveled to school in an auto-rickshaw, excitedly waving at passersby, hoping for a wave in return. It was a small act that brought immense joy to my young heart and made my day brighter. Little did I know that years later, the tables would turn, and I would be the one receiving that wave of joy. Today, seizing the opportunity to bring a smile to their faces, I waved with a wide grin. To my delight, the children eagerly waved back, their eyes shining with excitement and mischief. Their infectious laughter filled the air, instantly lifting my own spirits.

Power of simple gestures​

In that moment, I realized the incredible impact that a simple wave and a shared moment of connection can have. The children in the school van reminded me of the joy that comes from acknowledging the presence of others, even if they are strangers. In our busy lives, we often overlook these small opportunities for genuine human connection, but they hold immense power to brighten our day and create a ripple effect of positivity. A simple wave can create a ripple effect, touching the lives of those around us and fostering a sense of community and connectedness.

In a world that often seems consumed by haste and indifference, it is essential to hold onto the spirit of innocence that children embody. Their ability to find joy in the simplest of interactions is a powerful reminder for us all. As adults, we can learn from their uninhibited expression of happiness and embrace opportunities to spread positivity through small acts of kindness, like a wave or a smile.

A wave, a smile, or a friendly greeting might seem insignificant, but they possess the power to brighten someone's day and create a ripple effect of positivity in our world.​

Unexpected challenges​

Life often throws unexpected challenges our way, testing our resilience and determination. Apoorva Pathak, my cousin, faced an unimaginable struggle when she met with a road accident in 2018, resulting in a spinal injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down. She endured innumerable hardships and struggles on her path to recovery, and I would like to focus on her remarkable transformation from a devastated medical student to a resilient and accomplished individual.

Brutal accident​

1. Devastating Setback​

The accident not only left Apoorva physically impaired but also shattered her dreams of becoming a doctor. As an aspiring MBBS student, she was full of enthusiasm and hope for the future. The sudden loss of mobility and independence brought her world crashing down. The transition from an able-bodied individual to someone with paraplegia was undoubtedly one of the most difficult phases of her life.

2. Physical and Emotional Challenges​

Apoorva's spinal injury required intensive medical care and prolonged rehabilitation. She had to undergo multiple surgeries and endure grueling physiotherapy sessions to regain some functionality. Beyond the physical pain, she also grappled with emotional turmoil, experiencing feelings of frustration, helplessness, and even depression. The loss of her dreams added to her emotional burden, leaving her feeling lost and uncertain about her future.

3. Adapting to a New Reality​

Despite the immense challenges, Apoorva showed remarkable resilience and determination. With the support of family, she gradually learned to adapt to her new reality. She embraced assistive devices and technologies that helped her regain some independence, such as a wheelchair and specialized equipment for mobility. Through sheer determination, she began to build a new life, accepting her circumstances while refusing to let them define her.

4. Pursuing a New Path​

Rather than succumbing to despair, Apoorva decided to redirect her focus towards a different academic pursuit. She made the courageous choice to switch from medicine to pursue a degree in the humanities. This shift allowed her to explore new areas of interest and provided her with a fresh perspective on life. Apoorva's decision to study BA in Rampur marked the beginning of a transformative journey that showcased her indomitable spirit.

Triumph and Recognition​

In 2023, Apoorva's unwavering dedication and perseverance bore fruit. She not only completed her BA with distinction but was also recognized as the college topper in her new course. This achievement not only symbolizes her academic excellence but also highlights her extraordinary determination to overcome obstacles. Apoorva's journey from the depths of despair to academic success serves as a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to self-improvement.

My sister's story is a powerful testament to the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The road accident that left her paralyzed brought her dreams to a halt, but it could not dampen her indomitable spirit. Through her unwavering determination and resilience, Apoorva has not only overcome physical and emotional hardships but has also excelled academically. Her remarkable transformation from a devastated medical student to the college topper in her new course is a true inspiration for me. Apoorva teaches me that with perseverance, hard work, and a positive mindset, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges that life presents us.

Health insurance​

In India, the importance of health insurance cannot be overstated. With rising healthcare costs and the uncertainty of unexpected medical emergencies, having a robust health insurance policy has become an essential safeguard for individuals and families. Basic tests such as HbA1c, BP and cholesterol conducted regularly will give you all the risk signals.

Health insurance acts as a financial safety net, ensuring that individuals and families can access quality healthcare without incurring exorbitant expenses. It provides coverage for hospitalization, medical treatments, and diagnostic tests, easing the financial burden on policyholders. Health insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that one's health and well-being are protected, and enables timely access to necessary medical care.

Absence of health insurance​

The absence of health insurance can pose significant challenges for individuals and families. Without insurance coverage, medical expenses can quickly drain savings and lead to a financial crisis. Many people may resort to inadequate or delayed treatment due to financial constraints, jeopardizing their health and well-being. Health insurance acts as a vital buffer, ensuring that necessary medical interventions are not compromised due to financial limitations.

Annual health checkups​

To ensure the well-being of policyholders, insurance companies often conduct annual health checkups. These checkups serve multiple purposes, including assessing the overall health status of individuals, identifying potential risk factors, and establishing a baseline for future comparisons. Insurance companies use this data to understand the health profile of their customers and devise strategies to enhance their experience, such as offering wellness programs or personalized recommendations for healthier lifestyles.

Who collects the sample​

My insurer is Aditya Birla and the test was conducted via Visit Health Private Limited. They seem to operate on a similar model for corporates and insurers as ConnectedH. I had talked about it in Conversation with a startup founder. Visit also hosted the final report via a link and communicated with me via email. Overall a neat solution!

Health tests​

During annual health checkups, insurance companies typically conduct basic tests that provide valuable insights into an individual's health. Tests such as HbA1c and cholesterol levels help evaluate diabetes risk and cardiovascular health. Although these tests may seem basic, they serve as important indicators of overall well-being. Elevated cholesterol, blood pressure, and random blood sugar levels, even slightly above optimal, can signify the need for lifestyle modifications and further evaluation.

If your recent health checkup, like mine, revealed slightly elevated cholesterol, blood pressure, and random blood sugar levels, it is crucial to prioritize their improvement. Making positive changes in your lifestyle, such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep, can have a significant impact on these parameters. Consultation with a healthcare professional can provide tailored guidance and support in achieving optimal health. By taking proactive steps towards healthier living and considering the recommendations of healthcare professionals, individuals can pave the way for better health outcomes and a more secure future.

Redacted - Gaurav Parashar - Health Assessment - 17 May 2023

Remember, investing in your health is an investment in a happier and more fulfilling life.​

Health insurance​

In our daily lives, we often set rules and boundaries for ourselves to maintain structure and discipline. While these rules can be beneficial, there are instances when breaking them can lead to unexpected growth and personal development. Today, I broke a self-imposed rule and did not feel guilty about it. I relised it.

It is important to enjoy the freedom that comes with breaking a rule while finding a way to return to our established norms.​

Embracing growth through rule-breaking​

Self-imposed rules are often established to create routines, maintain discipline, or uphold certain standards. However, occasionally challenging these rules can open doors to new opportunities and personal growth. By stepping out of our comfort zones and questioning the validity of our rules, we create room for exploration and self-discovery. Breaking rules can lead to fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a greater understanding of ourselves.

When we intentionally break a rule, we often experience a sense of liberation and excitement. The feeling of freedom can be invigorating and empower us to embrace new experiences and perspectives. By breaking a rule, we challenge the status quo, allowing ourselves to think outside the box and pursue paths we might have previously considered off-limits. It is essential to savor this joy and appreciate the sense of freedom that comes with rule-breaking.

Back to discipline​

While breaking rules can be enlightening, it is equally important to recognize the value of structure and discipline. After enjoying the benefits of breaking a rule, finding a way to reintegrate back into established norms is essential for maintaining balance. Returning to the norm with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose can help foster growth while preserving the benefits of structure.

Breaking rules does teach us the importance of flexibility and adaptability in life. It reminds us that rules should serve as guidelines rather than rigid boundaries. By being open to change and allowing ourselves to challenge existing norms, we become more resilient and adaptable to new situations.

The key to reaping the benefits of breaking rules lies in finding balance. It is important to strike a harmonious equilibrium between structure and exploration. This can be achieved by identifying the rules that truly align with our values and goals while also recognizing when it is appropriate to break them for personal growth. By consciously balancing rule-breaking experiences with a return to established norms, we create a healthy and sustainable approach to personal development.

Unveiling Gurgaon's dichotomy​

Gurgaon, a thriving city on the outskirts of Delhi, is renowned for its rapid urban development and bustling corporate hub. As the city has grown, its residential rental market has witnessed a fascinating dichotomy, with high-rise buildings standing side by side with slums, and well-maintained roads intermingling with poorly maintained ones. I will delve into the contrasting elements of Gurgaon's rental market and explore the global rise in rents after the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with interest rate hikes implemented by central banks.

Gurgaon's rental market is a reflection of the city's rapid expansion and juxtaposition of different socioeconomic segments. While high-rise buildings boasting luxurious amenities cater to the affluent population, slums, unfortunately, coexist in close proximity, representing the socio-economic divide prevalent in many urban areas. This striking dichotomy serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in achieving equitable growth and affordable housing for all.

The rental market in Gurgaon presents another contrast in terms of infrastructure. While some areas boast impeccable roads, modern amenities, and well-maintained public spaces, others struggle with inadequate infrastructure, including poorly maintained roads, limited access to basic amenities, and insufficient public transportation. This disparity highlights the need for comprehensive urban planning and development strategies to bridge the gaps in infrastructure across the city.

Rental rebound after Covid-19​

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the global rental market, including Gurgaon. As people adapted to remote work and sought larger living spaces, demand for rentals surged in some areas. With limited supply and increased demand, rents in popular locations witnessed an upward trend. This phenomenon was driven by shifting preferences, as individuals sought more spacious homes and a balance between work and lifestyle. However, it is important to note that the pandemic also led to economic hardships for many, exacerbating the challenges of affordable housing in Gurgaon.

Central bank hikes​

Central banks around the world implemented measures to stabilize their respective economies and fight inflation. One of these measures included raising interest rates. Interest rate hikes can have a direct impact on the rental market as they affect borrowing costs for property owners and investors. Higher interest rates can lead to increased mortgage payments, which, in turn, may result in landlords passing on these costs to tenants through higher rents.

In the face of these challenges, individuals seeking rental accommodation in Gurgaon must navigate the market wisely. Researching different neighborhoods, understanding rental trends, and considering long-term affordability are key aspects to consider. Engaging with reputed real estate agents and consulting property experts can provide valuable insights and guidance in making informed decisions.

Gurgaon's residential rental market encapsulates a unique dichotomy, where towering high-rise buildings stand alongside slums, and modern infrastructure intertwines with underdeveloped areas. While the global rise in rents after the COVID-19 pandemic and interest rate hikes by central banks have influenced the rental market, the challenges of affordability and equitable access to housing persist.