It is rightly said, "If what you do with the best hours of the day is not also the think you are passionate about, stop right now."

No training, no skill, no tip will help you unless you do not have passion in work. Passion is the fire to excel in whatever we do. It's the zing to finish the task with finesse. Unless you find the passion within you, you will never lead a life, you will just follow others. A person without passion is like a candle without flame. To be of a value, you should have passion culminated with knowledge.

Somebody asked me, what passion means to me. I thought for a while. It's the feeling that I get when I write my thoughts.  It's the feeling that urges me to write further. When I write a blog with passion, it shows in the contents and people can feel it. And then I thought what if I show the same passion in whatever I do? It could do wonders, isn't it?

No matter what job you do, without passion, you will not succeed in business.

There are two kinds of people:

Some are those who always keep looking out for new ideas and solutions. They do not wait for others to tell them what they need to do next. They anticipate and take steps before others start thinking. They are the ones who reach the top of any career graph. They are proactive.

Others are those who take steps only when they are told or when they face the consequences. They do not have the ability to foresee future. They simply follow lives on other's tune. They are called reactive.

Unfortunately we have very less proactive in our country. Proactive are the best example when we talk about passion. They are so positively obsessed about opportunities that they never waste time.

Here are some of the steps on how to be passionate about work:

1)      Concentrate on positives and the good side of the work. This will keep you motivated.

2)      Foresee negatives and address them on time.

3)      Set high standards and expectations. Those who are passionate about work always set high expectations. And when these expectations are met, they are highly recognized.

4)      Have faith in yourself. You need to trust yourself and your abilities. This is very important.

5)      Keep yourself in a company of passionate and positive people. This will keep you away from any negative thoughts.

6)      Create an environment that encourages everyone to become more passionate about work.

7)      Find a role model or mentor. There are many people who have already done what you want to do. Reading their autobiographies will motivate you in your life to achieve success.

8)      Take responsibility of things in your hand. Do it with all your might.

9)      Make a plan of your activities and review them daily. This will keep you motivated and will not douse the flames of passion.

10)   Set sometime for yourself. Go for gym, indulge in some hobbies. This will keep you pepped up all the time.

11)   Read motivational and inspirational thoughts. This will keep you charged.

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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Negotiation is an art where two people arguing on a particular issue come to a conclusion beneficial to both of them. This world is a big negotiating table where we argue and negotiate with almost everybody in our life. This art requires good communication skill. So those who are weak in communication can face a major disadvantage.

There are various factors responsible for a successful negotiation:

• Information: A person having abundant information and latest update on the topic stands a better position to negotiate. When you display this knowledge to the other party, negotiation can be in your favor.

• Time: Negotiations can get affected when you are pressed for time. The person who has more time in hand has a better advantage. When you are pressed for time, you tend to agree on a decision quickly and may lose to the other person.

• Choice: Negotiation favors the person who has more choices in hand. When you know that if this deal does not work, you have other options available, you are in a better position to negotiate as per your terms.

• A bold and confident personality is equally important for negotiation. People are usually frightened of bold people and tend to give up easily on negotiations.

• Being friendly and adding a pinch of humor in between serious discussions can not only win you negotiations but can also win you friends.

• Be honest. If you are very sure and clear on what you want from the negotiation, convey it to the other party and be to the point. Running around the bush will waste your time and other's as well.

Most negotiations usually prefer win-win approach which means both the sides should get a better deal in the end. According to Herb Cohen "A win win approach is finding out what the other side really wants and show them the way to get it, while you get what you want" This is so true and this principle can be applied in any given situation, whether it's a contract or a job or a real estate deal etc.

HOW DO YOU NEGOTIATE A SALARY

As a fresher, your negotiation skills are explored when you are sitting in front of the interview table all set to negotiate your salary. Apart from above basic concepts of negotiating skills, there are some more points you should take into consideration while negotiating salary. Whether you already have a job or not, it is in your best interest to negotiate in the best possible way.

• Do your homework. Grab as much information as possible on what the salary range is for that particular position in the market. You may ask your friends or colleagues in similar field. This will help you get a general idea.

• Know your market value. Do not overprice yourself because that way you are wasting employer's time and your time. Be realistic.

• When employer asks you about your salary expectations, tell them that it is the job opportunity that matters the most. Shift the burden to them by asking them what their salary range is. Reversing the question to them, gives you the power position.

• If the employer talks to the point and asks your salary expectations point blank, and if you realize that you cannot shift the burden to them, honestly give them the price range that you have researched.

• If you are not aggressively looking for a job and salary is your topmost priority, just say "NO", if the salary is not as per your expectations. Be honest with yourself for what you need. But don't be greedy. If the employer really wants you, they will definitely bend a little backward. In such case, it is advisable to compromise a little on your salary.

• Be professional. Do not get overexcited if you get the salary as per your expectation. Thank them and remain calm. Do not let them know what you are thinking. Remember, you are a talented employee who should be compensated fairly.

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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How long do you sit in front of your computer? For those who work in office, I am sure spending 7-8 hours a day would be an understatement. Almost 70% of our educated youth today, spends most of their time browsing internet. I would never say that it's wrong. In fact, with changing educational and work structure in our country, it is very important to be well versed with this technology. No access or no knowledge about computers is as good as failing your 5^th grade. And it's indeed amazing to see the vast ocean of knowledge internet provides. A simple Google search can solve any question in this world. All corporate organizations have their data uploaded in computers. Thus, our work environment is such that it is impossible, not to sit in front of the computer for long.

But just as there are two sides of a coin, this technology also brings with it, prolonged health issues that we all should be aware of. I chose to write on this topic today because I see the youth of India falling prey to the vicious circle of health hazards caused by this technology. And yes, that includes me as well.

One out of every 5 people today, complain about back pain caused due to continuous use of computers. We get so glued into our computer that we tend to forget our basic sitting posture. Information technology excites us so much that we move very close to the monitor, not realizing that even a slightest forward movement of our head from the normal sitting posture, pressurizes our backbone, shoulder and soft tissues.

For some the pain or the effect is immediate but for others it's like a slow poison. Sitting in a wrong position for a long time can have a drastic effect on your body. Initial symptoms can be lower body pain, back pain, shoulder pain, chest pain etc. If not detected in early stage, it can lead to slip disc, breathing problems and some may need surgery as well. It can also affect the curvature of the spine which means the natural "S" shape of the spine can turn into a complete "C" shape.

I should be ashamed to say this, but I am one of the victims to this common issue. And I know we all have one reason to say, "We get so involved with what we do that rest becomes secondary", right? But now I realize the effect of my negligence and I am working on it.

When I visited my doctor, his first question was "Do you work in front of the computer?"
I said "Yes"
He continued "How long?"
I said "Very long"

And then he continued, "Its ok to sit in front of the computer for a long period but it's equally important that you exercise at least an hour every day. Just imagine your bones being pressurized for 8 continuous hours. Poor body!"
His simple question was "If you can dedicate so many hours to your computer, can't you keep aside one hour for your body?"
His question made sense to me.
He commented, "Today 70% of the youth is in the IT field that needs long hours in front of the computer. Your body does not work during these hours, only your brain does. What happens when you do not start a car for more than a month? All its parts start rusting. Similarly, if we do not exercise and do not stretch our muscles, they get stiff."
And here goes the last comment by my doctor "If this is how our youth continues to be, by the age of 40-45, their bodies will get crippled and they would be good for nothing."

WOW! That was a real eye opener for me.

• Simple exercises like stretching your hands, rotating your head and shoulder clockwise and anti-clockwise direction can give great relief to the body.
• When you sit in front of the computer, make sure that your back is straight, shoulders back and the top of your monitor should be in level with your eyes.
• Make it a habit to walk around every one hour. This will ensure continuous blood circulation.
• Rest your eyes in between. Rub your hands for 15 seconds and place the palm on your eyes. This gives great relief.
• Take deep breaths.
• Keep a water bottle handy next to you. This will keep you active and alert.
• Yoga can also be a good option.

Here is an image of how the correct posture should be:

Courtesy : hubpages.com

Friends, I know we all are a part of this computer world and we cannot ignore it. But we cannot ignore our body as well, right? After all, what's the benefit of working hard and earning good money when you cannot enjoy it? You all are freshers with bright ideas, great enthusiasm and high ambitions who can take our country to a new height. Don't let such petty health issues stop you from reaching those heights. All you need to do is spare one hour a day for your body and nobody can then stop you. Let's prove my doctor wrong!

Best Regards

Reshmi Nair

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Communication is the most effective skill for any business and its important that we excel this skill. Communication is a process where a message is transferred from one person to another through a medium. And when we say effective communication, it means message is transferred and understood well.

There are four elements in effective communication:

Sender, Receiver, Message and the Medium

In the above model, the message is passed from sender to receiver using a medium. This medium can be any verbal or non-verbal medium, written or oral medium.

Now, the above communication model will be complete when the message sent from the sender to the receiver is reached and understood well by the receiver and he sends back his feedback.

Effective communication is not just expressing your thoughts, but it's also effective listening. We all like to talk about our feelings, our emotions, experiences etc. But it is equally important to listen and understand other's feelings as well. There are comparatively less people who prefer to listen. All want to just talk about themselves and finish it off. All prefer to make their point of view clear but seldom anyone takes attempt to understand other's point of view.

Did you know that there is a vast difference between hearing and listening? Hearing is nothing but sounds falling on your ears. You do not take efforts to understand what exactly these sounds are. Listening, on the other hand, is a conscious effort to understand what these sounds are.

A classic example of hearing is when you see two people fighting in the street. They shout to vent out their anger, they talk louder. But none of them are listening. A fight never leads to a solution because they are not listening, which means they are not understanding the issue. They just feel sounds falling in their ears.

Have you ever felt that as a speaker, your boss had said a particular point to you but as a listener you do not remember anything being said? This is because when you talk and listen at the same time, you dismiss 20%-25% of the speech. This 20%-25% maybe an important part of the speech. Nobody does this deliberately. It just happens. Instead, if we completely listen to what is said first, understand the message and then talk, effective listening is 100%.

How well we listen, affects our job efficiency. When you listen attentively to others, you are indirectly giving respect to the speaker. Whether it's your professional or personal relationship, good listening can uncomplicate various issues and solve complex problems.

Hindrances in effective listening:

Listening may be affected due to various factors. These factors can be internal or external factors :

Internal factors : Selective listening, lack of interest, assuming that the talk will be boring, pride that you know everything, lack of understanding, personal beliefs etc.

External factors: Loud noise, unfavorable climatic conditions, ineffective speech of the speaker, technological disturbances like no electricity or mobile phone ringing etc.

Disadvantages of poor listening:

Ineffective listening can create misunderstanding among friends, colleagues etc. It can affect your productivity in office. And this in turn, can affect your personal and professional life.

How to become an active listener:

• Show Interest:

Look at the speaker with interest when he talks. Make him realize that you are interested in his speech. Give your opinion.

• Pay attention:

I understand it's difficult to pay attention all the time as there can be distractions. But try your best to concentrate.

• Be Patient:

Do not keep interrupting the speaker by your questions. Let him finish his talk. Many a times, speaker invites question at the end of the speech.

• Switch off your phones:

It's necessary to switch off your mobile phones. Not adhering to this is an insult to the speaker.

• Set aside your other feelings:

You need to make conscious effort to listen effectively. You may have personal problems or emotions going through your head. Set all your feelings aside and concentrate only on the speech.

• Empathize:

Imagine yourself at the speaker's position and think how you would want others to listen to your speech.

Listening is more than a talent as it requires tolerance, self-control and keen interest to comprehend and be understood.

Best Regards

Reshmi Nair

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Planning is not a rocket science. If you spare 15 minutes a day and plan accordingly, you will be amazed to see how productive your day can become. All of us plan knowingly or unknowingly. Most would be routine plan. But if we modify this plan to our benefit such that it improves our professional and personal life, it can bring great outcomes.

When you plan, you are more focused on your goals. No matter what problems you come across, a perfect plan keeps you attentive. Else you start reacting to the situations and can easily get diverted from your goal.

Everybody has their best time for planning. It need not necessarily be early morning. People tend to be busier in the morning. Many prefer to plan for the next day, before they go to sleep in the night. This is because along with planning for the next day, they can also review their previous plan and accordingly modify the new one. Yes, reviewing your previous plan to check if all the task is accomplished is equally important.

Planning is an important aspect when it comes to personality development. In fact planning and visualization go hand in hand. As a fresher, if you aim to make it big in your profession, it is very important that you plan your career today.

Example: You may plan to become a CEO of an organization 10 years from now. Your plan may include being a junior executive for the first two years, senior executive for the next two, junior management for the next two, middle management for the next two and finally senior management for the next two.

Again your main plan can be further classified into sub plans like Two Yearly plan, Yearly plan, Monthly plan, Weekly plan and Daily plan. Your plans are subjective and depend on individual level. There may be some changes or modifications needed from time to time. A perfect plan is always flexible and never rigid.

When in a particular position, always observe the task and responsibilities of your next top level positions. Example: If you are at a junior executive level, observe the task and responsibilities of senior executives. Similarly, if you are at a junior management level, observe the task and responsibilities of the middle management and so on. (And yes, it goes without saying that you need to finish off your own task as well  )This feature helps you grow in your professional career.

This is just an example of how you can plan your career.  Some management positions may require specific management degrees. Anticipating this, you may join correspondence or part-time course for such degrees.

Why do plans fail?

Many of us may know what our goals are but find it difficult to execute it. Very few actually realize the organizational goals. Just because leaders know what the goals are, it is not necessary that all the other members are equally aware. This is basically due to miscommunication. As a result, not all are passionate or feel the ownership; not all understand how they can participate to achieve these goals. Hence, when we make organizational goals, it is very important that we communicate it to every member clearly.

Some prefer to let life go the way it wants to go. But no aim in life is like a ship in the deep blue sea without any directions. With no planning, it would be like a football match where players are running around in different directions rather than working on one goal. Many of us do not plan due to the fear of failure. And it's true, planning may not necessarily be successful all the time. In fact, when you fail, you learn many new things. Planning is not a solution; it's a path to reach your goal. It needs frequent reviews, alterations and modifications.

Some prefer to keep alternate plans ready such that if Plan A fails, they have Plan B or Plan C in place. This reduces the chances of uncertainty. Most organizations always take SWOT analysis into consideration while planning. SWOT analysis means:

S- Strength                         W-Weakness                     O-Opportunity                  T-Threat

When your plan is based on SWOT analysis, chances of failure are minimal because you cover all the aspects of a perfect plan.

Remember, a strong plan makes you confident because you clearly know where you are heading to. It helps you prioritize your work. It motivates you to achieve goals, which you have never achieved before. And to achieve those goals, you need to do things that you have never done before.

Best Regards

Reshmi Nair

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Hello,

I came across this very beautiful poem on life. I know it's long but worth reading.

By Chuck Danes

Each of us is sent here with a purpose to unfold
Each given only so much time to complete before you're old.
Upon arrival you are sure of the plan to be unfurled
But as you grow you then absorb the teachings of the world.

You're taught about the things in life what's real and right and true
You're told by those that love you most what you're suppose to do.
You're taught about what's right and wrong based on what they believe
To often shown your limitations, not what you can achieve.

You continue on your journey and do the best you can
To follow this direction these established ways of man.
You stay within the boundaries of these things you're told are true
Knowing little of the damage long term that they can do.

Through this ensuing process your memories get weak
Your once held purpose since replaced, with the material things you seek.
The plan that you were sent here for now a distant memory
It's the earthly teaching you've received that makes it faint you see.

As life goes on you start to sense that you have lost your way
Not realizing yet that false beliefs have brought you here today.
Achieving all that they have claimed would bring you happiness
There's still a hunger deep within, these "things" cannot suppress.

You search for deeper meaning you long to find the truth
Not just what others say is right and taught you in your youth.
But true answers to your questions that point you toward the light
Which lead you toward that once known path, and brings your purpose back in sight.

You've come upon a place in life there's unrest in your soul
The path that you've been following leaves you feeling less than whole.
You begin to seek your purpose that which you were sent to do
You reflect on many things you've learned but few of them ring true.

So many things that you were taught you find to be untrue
Innocently by those you love who taught you all they knew.
The more you learn the more your mind resists this newfound news
It goes against what's stored within and creates conflicting views.

Emotions stir your thoughts run wild they shout for you to "Cease"
But the more you seek, and the more you find, the more you feel at peace.
Your search goes on new truths revealed with every passing day
How could it be those childhood lessons have caused you to lose your way?

Confusion mounts frustration grows as you seek to find what's right
The road seems dark and lonely as you journey toward your plight.
But soon the fog starts lifting and as you learn to clear your mind
A faint little voice within you says "Keep seeking and you'll find."

You keep on searching deeper you know it's there somewhere
You ask your God to help you, and say a little prayer.
And then one day that inner voice speaks up once again
"All the answers that you're seeking, can be found if you'll look within."

"It's outside interference that keeps truth from coming through
Just go within, grow quiet child, and you'll discover what is true.
Your struggle to awaken is due to your own choice
It's due to all the noise out there that drowns the "inner voice."

"Learn to differentiate the teachings of your youth
The limiting and false beliefs you now perceive as truth.
It is due to man made teachings that make your spirit tire
For they are such that interfere with achieving your desires."

"You've been told that dreams you hold are far beyond your means
That what you long to experience is reserved for kings and queens
Your only limitations are based on what you believe
Shed these limitations learned and you will soon achieve."

"Awaken and become aware of all you say and think
Doing so will provide you with that one last missing link
For it is these that shape your outcomes each and every day
Learn to change them starting now and you'll have found your way."

"As you learn to discipline your thoughts and conscious mind
Each answer that you seek today, you will surely find.
Then learn to recognize the voice that leads you on your way
Take action on it's guidance, and do so without delay."

"Discover how to seperate from falsehoods you perceive as truth
Those false beliefs that you were taught and absorbed while in your youth.
Now walk the path and take the steps I've revealed to you today
Be persistent, persevere and you will find your way."

"There will be days that you will doubt what you have learned today
Just understand that life will throw some obstacles your way.
But as they come just realize and deep within you know
Each of them is happening as a means to help you grow."

"The guidance you've received today will take you toward your dream
Just follow each and every word, no matter how things seem.
And keep your desire in focus, plant the outcome in your mind
Ignore those who belittle you and your treasure you will find."

An "Inner Knowing" lights your path as you're shown what is to be
The steps to take are "crystal clear" the plan is plain to see.
You start to take the steps toward your ever perfect plan
With an unexplainable "knowingness" uncommon for a man.

The excitement that's within you grows as your dreams start taking form
Some days seem so effortless while some you bare the storm.
But on those days you persevere, stay focused and believe
Remembering the voice within that promised you'd achieve.

On those days the dark clouds gather and it seems you can't get through
And all those in your circle say, "There's nothing you can do."
You dig down deep within you find some energy somewhere
And keep on trudging forward cause you know you're almost there.

When the seeds that you've been sowing just won't seem to grow
So much time and effort spent with so little fruit to show.
With the tools that you've discovered, you nurture them with care
Then keep on planting more and more, knowing soon you will be there.

Regardless of what others say you think back on that day
Reflecting now upon the price you knew you'd have to pay.
You refocus on your vision all the good you have to share
And keep your fire burning cause you're sure your almost there.

When you're feeling worn and tired and you're ready to give in
Your worldly thoughts start telling you there's no way you can win.
You visualize the sunny skies don't fall into despair
And keep on taking baby steps cause you know you're almost there.

And then one day it happens the light starts breaking through
All the effort you've put forward starts producing what you knew.
The joy you feel inside you shows, excitement fills the air
Your proud of your accomplishments cause now you've made it there.

Through your determination and the guidance that you sought
The answers came upon you when you were least distraught.
The guidance that you longed for could never make it through
When those negative emotions of doubt and fear were indwelling you.

When you look back on the challenges this goal has put you through
You see them now as benefits, it's because of them you grew.
You've learned that fear and anguish block the guidance that you sought
That those few times you felt cut off were due to your own thought.

You think of all that you have learned and how you've come so far
The dream that you are living now was once a distant star.
The obstacles you made it through, the blood and sweat and tears
How the faint small voice within you helped to overcome your fears.

And now it's time to rest you think from all that you've been through
But that still small voice within you says "You've another job to do.
For there are those who long and hope to fulfill their dreams someday
So share your words help clear the path for others on the way."

"You have so much to offer now it's a shame to let it lay
Go within you find the strength to begin it now, today.
And use your sweet life lessons, with others you can share
And help as many as you can to also make it there."

This guidance rings within you, knowing deep you can't ignore
It's this same small voice that got you through when you felt so weak before.
You go within and seek the strength to help all those out there
Who really seek your guidance and the following you share....

"The answers are available to any who will seek
Just take the time and go within when you are feeling weak.
The blessings are unlimited with so much left to spare
When things seem hard just persevere, and you too, will get there."

"Find within you Gratitude no matter how things seem
Express it each and every day while working toward your dream.
And magically as you express all things your grateful for
The key you seek will then appear that opens up the door."

"Your life long dreams will be attained if only you believe
Just focus on them daily and soon you will achieve.
All the things you long for and all you dream to do
Just persevere and keep on going and soon you'll see it through."

"All these things will manifest that you have dreamt to do
If you will only follow this plan that's laid for you.
Just keep it fresh upon your mind and daily go within
Above all else don't ever quit and you will surely win!"

"And when you reach that pinnacle stop a while and rest
But jump back in and show the way to all those who request.
By following this guidance and helping all you can
You will have fulfilled your purpose and the Universal Plan."

We each were sent here for a time a mission to complete
False teachings learned along the way we must now learn to delete.
And each must search and find within their own unbiased truth
And recall the reason you were sent, which you knew once in your youth.

Warm Regards

Reshmi Nair

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It is said that our life is 10% of what occurs to us and 90% of how we respond to it. In other words, 90% of our life is based on how we act, think and feel. This is our attitude towards the life. We have come across this word quite a lot of time, isn't it? Attitude means position of the body or manner of carrying oneself. When you carry yourself gracefully and with poise, you show positive attitude. In this blog, I am concentrating more on attitude at work.

Our life is full of choices. What choice you make decides your attitude towards life. A very simple example to explain the right attitude is this:

A colleague is promoted in the organization. Another staff did not like it and he started bad-mouthing the organization and the colleague among other staff. He started blaming the organization for promoting employees on the basis of influence. He immediately starts looking for another job. This is the perfect example of a pessimist. We all are human beings and it definitely may hurt, but blaming others or the organization is the wrong attitude.

On the contrary, a person with the right attitude would first congratulate the colleague for his success. He would then think, what feature he is lacking in, that did not win him the promotion. Maybe his colleague is little more dedicated or hardworking than him. It might have hurt him but taking it positively, he would then work on his shortcoming with more dedication.

I do not understand how resigning the job would help in such case. The person who keeps complaining will show the same traits in the new organization as well. First few days would be great but gradually, he would start blaming the new company and the colleagues there. It's not the company or the job but it's the attitude towards the work that should change. It's very easy to blame others and the organization when you do not get what you expect. But we never take the pain to think and understand why you did not get what you expected, what quality is the company looking for which is missing in you. A person with right attitude never gets unnoticed. He never speaks about his quality, his work speaks for him. Others waste their time talking and trying to convince people.

As I said before, every situation in life will have two choices. It depends on what the individual chooses and how he reacts. That defines his attitude. By reading the above example, you can decide for yourself, which category you fall in.

What should be the attitude at work?

This is an open ended question and is an individual choice. Each one has their own explanation of the right attitude. In general, right attitude at work should include:

Just loving your job is not enough; you should have passion to complete the task. You should have that zing to finish your work with perfection and on time.

You need to believe in what you do. A strong belief in yourself will definitely lead you to the path of success. Trust yourself and your abilities. Take up new and challenging tasks as they are opportunities to grow in life. No matter how big or small the task is, never say no. You never know which task can be a turning point in your life.

There is an old saying, "Work is worship". I prefer to say this "old" because today, hardly anyone considers work as worship, isn't it? It's very important that we respect the work we do. No work is big or small. Whatever you do, do it with perfection. If you are dealing with a client, make him feel as if he is the king. Treat them with respect and dignity and they will return the same respect back to you.  Do not make fun of others who work hard. Do not enjoy at the cost of your work. You can enjoy after your work is complete. Fun can wait, work cannot.

I know work can get monotonous and boring at times. When it does, try to find something new in what you do. Try to improvise your work, do things that others would usually do not do, explore new avenues.

Getting that right attitude in life has to start from within you. A perfect attitude is the culmination of following qualities:

• Waking up early
• Exercising
• Having a healthy diet
• Respecting others
• Passion in whatever you do
• Loving others
• Living every moment
• Smiling

A happy person is happy, not because everything is RIGHT in his life. He is happy because his attitude towards everything in life is RIGHT.

-Unknown

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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Hello friends,

In this post, I need you to visualize that I write. Try to concentrate hard and visualize what I am writing here.  Remember, the effect would be more only when you visualize.

Imagine, today is your last day in life. Yes, you are going to die soon. And since you know you are nearing your end, you just try to recollect all that you have accomplished in your life.

• And you realized, you have never experienced the great satisfaction that you get when you do a splendid job.
• You realized that you never took any bold step in life and you never received any great reward or recognition.
• You realized that you never learned the skill to convert difficulty into victory.
• You realized that you always worked for yourself and never thought about others. And nobody is proud of you today.
• You realized that you have ended up living a life that others trained you instead of leading a life that you truly wanted.
• You realized that you never utilized your true potential which is still hiding inside you.
• You realized that you could be a true leader or a motivator and change the entire society for the better. But you never did because you were too scared.
• You realized, you never did anything extraordinary that people would remember you for. You are going to die like any other ordinary man.
• You realized that you were living an aimless life with no directions.
• You realized that you never lived your life to the fullest because you were always worried of what people would think.
• You realized today that you have WASTED YOUR LIFE.

Do you feel miserable when you visualize the above? It's a shame if you do not realize your potential and utilize it for the betterment of the society and yourself.

Now friends, visualize again and imagine, you have reached the end of your life and

• You realized that you are full of happiness because you have utilized all your potential to the maximum, explored your talent and lead an inspirational life.
• You realized that you have always excelled in your life, thereby setting standards for others.
• You realized that you are respected for what you are.
• You realized that you have faced all your fears and fulfilled all your dreams in life.
• You realized that you lived a life which is different from others. You were not an ordinary man. You were a man with high status and mental peace.
• You realized that though your life was not smooth and full of struggle, you jumped back whenever you were knocked down. You faced all the difficulties with courage and came out winning the battle.
• You realized that though you were frightened of unknown things, you showed the courage to overcome those fears.
• You reached your end, telling your glorious and adventurous life story to the younger generation who always look upto you.
• You realized that you are a person with strong values and culture who is not only inspirational but also helpful.
• You realized that you reached your end with people around you who call you a rock star, a hero, a legend. All are proud of you.
• You reach your end as a true leader.

WOW, what an end. There is nothing left to be fulfilled. How does it feel?  I am sure; all of you will say "GREAT!!"

Remember friends, we have JUST ONE LIFE and we all have to die one day. Then why fear? You have received this gift of life to accomplish something. The onus is on you. You have to decide how you want your life to be.

Live your life as if tomorrow is your last day.

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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Hello friends,

Here are some powerful words that you should always use in  your day to day life.

Thank you:

Just imagine, you do a great favor to someone, you gave your time or money and in return you were not even thanked, how would you feel? You may consider the person insensitive and probably, would not like to help him again. Well, same applies to you. It is so easy to forget thanking a person. Make it a habit to say "Thank you" for every little things. Thank everybody. I know there are people who would say, "There is no need to thank our close ones, they are always there in our heart." I personally feel that this is a nonsensical statement. Every human being craves for appreciation and respect. From your mom to your friends, from your colleague to the peon, all feel great when they are thanked. I have made this a habit. Friends keep telling me not to thank them, but I still continue because that is a way to show gratitude.

I am sorry:

Sometimes, it is good to accept your mistake and apologize for what you have done. Apologizing will not make you small.  In fact, you win many hearts.  Just put your ego aside and it becomes easier to say these three words. After any arguments or fights just say this sentence "I am sorry if I hurt you in anyway" and see the difference. It works for me every time I have an argument at home.

I am responsible:

Taking things in your hands is a sign of maturity. Be responsible and accountable for whatever you do. If things go wrong and you were in charge of the task, be bold enough to speak for it. Be bold enough to take complete responsibility. That is a biggest leadership quality. Passing the buck or blaming another person will go against you. Your seniors are smart enough to know who should be accountable.

Maybe, you are right:

Always learn to welcome other's opinion or suggestion. Being inconsiderate to other's feedback, is a sign of selfishness. Do not be self-centric. Instead of bluntly saying no, you can say sentences like "Maybe you are right and I am wrong, but this is how I look at the situation.." . This evades the negativity from the sentence and makes it optimistic. Also, it is important that if you are wrong, admit it. Do not pretend that you know everything.

You can do it:

Whenever I am down or when I know things are going in wrong direction, this phrase charges me up. You can test for yourself now. Think of a goal that you wish to accomplish but has not been possible yet and say these phrases "YES, I CAN DO IT". It will immediately pump you up and heighten your passion to achieve that goal. If you want to be different from others, you need to accomplish tasks that others do not desire to do. I keep saying myself "Yes Reshmi, I know I can do it. Its little difficult now, but I can and I will do it." This sentence makes my day.

May I help you?:

In this hectic lifestyle, where do we have time to help others, right? Forget helping, we don't even look at each other to see if anyone needs help. I wish our management courses also teach us how to become a kind and caring human being. Help people when they are in trouble. It can be your family members or your colleagues or a person walking down the road. My personal experience says that if you help someone, that help will come back to you in another form. And it's indeed a tremendous satisfaction, isn't it?

Sorry but "No":

Learn to say no. You cannot do everything at the same time. Saying no, need not necessarily mean selfishness. It's just that you are too weighed down with your commitments. Saying no, is much better than saying yes with no peace of mind. This way, you give others the chance to step in and take responsibilities.

I trust you:

Trust is an inherent part of human nature. It's very important that you show your trust among your team members, friends or family members. It gives immense confidence to the other person, when you trust him. If there has been any failure in the past, we need to accept it and move on in life. Do not shatter your trust based on that failure. You catch a bus because you trust the driver; a child plays around freely when his mom's around because he trusts his mom. The very basic foundation of our life is trust. Using this phrase can highly motivate your team for increased productivity.

I respect you:

I strongly believe in this phrase. For me, life should be respectful. You give respect and you take respect. Always respect elders (that goes without saying). Even if I have an argument with an unknown stranger who is elder me, I always start my sentence as "With due respect to your age, I am sorry I do not agree..." Such sentence gives out a strong signal about my values, my culture and my upbringing. Respect is one important aspect which is slowly diminishing from our society. Respect everybody, whether it's a child or a laborer,a man or a woman.

I understand:

Empathize with people. Phrases like "I understand how you would be feeling" will definitely not cover the loss but can soothe the pain. Phrases like these show the softer side of you. This shows that you are considerate about others.

Awesome:

My boss always uses this word. The word AWESOME has a very strong punch in itself. Everytime, he says this word, it immediately motivates us to work harder. Phrases like "Awesome job", "You guys are awesome" charge us. And now we all use it in our conversation because we feel great when we hear the sound of "AWESOME!!"

Keep trying:

You must have heard the proverb "Try, try, till you succeed". You fail only when you stop trying. Leaders never fail because they never stop trying. If you show sincerity and dedication, you can never fail. Always motivate your team to keep trying. Motivate yourself to keep trying. Keep saying this phrase in your mind. Remember, the urge to give up is higher when you are about to succeed.

Smile:

"Smile" is not a phrase, it's not a word but it is as strong as a word. A smile can do its job without saying. A smile can convey messages like trust, love, respect, empathy etc. This non verbal communication can bring a ray of hope in every human's heart. Smile at everyone and I am sure, you will get it back.

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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Visualization is considered as the most effective and the latest technique in personality development. Visualization is a great mental exercise for your personal and professional growth.  It's a powerful tool which when trained properly can change the situation as per your terms. However, it is not as easy as said. The exercise needs ample time and perseverance.

Have you ever felt that there are certain people who always get the best out of life? These people have great jobs, great lives, awesome relationships and everything seems to work right for them.  And there are certain people who always keep cribbing about their job, life and negative circumstances keep them busy all round the year. This happens because we are treated the way we think. We are treated the way we visualize things. What we give to the universe in thought form is transformed and returned back in the form of substance.

Visualization is a very powerful tool that subconsciously works for or against you. And the funny part is that we never realize it. If you train your mind and practice visualization exercises to work in favor of you, you will be able to achieve every goal that you desire in life.

Visualization technique is more famous and commonly used by sports athlete. Athletes are asked to visualize the entire process of the competition where they can see themselves winning the trophy. It is during visualization that they can expand their comfort zone and reach the highest possible levels. Sachin Tendulkar had once explained how visualization works great for his team, in an interview. This way even if the athlete is physically tired, the training continues in his mind.

Not just athletes but this exercise works for every individual. Visualization motivates you to achieve your goals in life. The more you visualize, the more you are persuaded to achieve it. It's a simple common sense, if you do not visualize, will you even bother about it?

Visualization not only improves your imagination but it makes you more creative. There are no restrictions. You can add your style, color and ambience to your goal. You can fail any number of times, nobody is going to stop or interfere. You can keep trying innumerable times till you succeed.

METHODS OF VISUALIZATION:

To learn the technique of visualization, you need to go slow with the process. You may take more than a week to practice. It is preferred to set aside 30 minutes to 1 hour to learn this skill.

To start with

• Close your eyes. A dark place is preferable or you can cover your eyes with your palm.

• When you close your eyes, you may see patches of white or the remainder of what you saw last. Let it settle down till the picture become pitch black.

• Now open your eyes and look at any object. Eg: Doll. You may take any object like a photograph.

• Take your time and analyze the doll in detail.

• Then close your eyes and try to remember as many details as possible. Eg : Its hair, eyes, smile etc.

• If you do not remember, open your eyes and check the details again.

• Keep practicing till you are good on it.

• Remember this can take a week or more.

• Once you are well versed with this, try dimensional visualization. Look at the doll from different dimensions and angles. Close your eyes and try to remember the details.

• Practice dimension visualization for a week.

• Once you excel dimensional visualization, next step is to try visualization with open eyes. This is a bit harder. Try visualizing a key hanging on the wall. Then try changing the color of the key etc.

• Finally, you can put visualization into practice. Think of a pleasant environment and visualize yourself there. Try to feel the environment. Make sure all your five senses are active during this visualization. You need to feel the ambience, hear the sound, visualize it, smell it and sense it.

Remember, it will take lot of time to excel this skill and needs regular practice.

When you visualize your result, the urge to transform it into reality is higher. You start concentrating on the means to achieve your ends. Visualization can improve your attitude and make you more optimistic. With visualization, there is no room for negative thinking or negative energy. You think positive, give positive vibes to the universe and as a result, universe will give you optimism and happiness in return.

After all, it's all about give and take, isn't it?.

Best Regards,

Reshmi Nair

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