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Vasudevan Ramaswami Partner, Verts Management Consulting LLP Linkedin In a large financial services company, the senior leadership team comprising of about 40 employees had assembled at a nearby hotel for a 3 day workshop on ” Team building and engaging to excel ”. It was the first month of the new financial year and an apt time to kick off this initiative as a prelude to the strategic business planning exercise that was to follow later. The composition of the leadership team has about 75% of the old guard (employees who have been with the company for more than 6 years) and 25% of the new guard (employees who have joined in the last 1 year). The program facilitator started the proceedings by asking everyone to standup and assemble in the middle of the conference room. He then projected a statement on the screen that read as follows. The company is aware of its strategic goals and is well positioned to deliver this over the next 3 years. He then said that the left of the room indicates a strong agreement to this statement, the right indicates a strong disagreement to the statement, the center being neutral with the space between showing different levels of agreement or disagreement. He requested all the leaders to occupy the positions on the continuum that best indicated their choices. What do you think happened? The position showing strong agreement to the statement was quickly occupied by the old guard while the position showing strong disagreement was populated by the new guard. It was not surprising because it is generally a reflection of the following human behavioral patterns. An existing team believes that what it has done and is doing is appropriate and that nothing needs to change. It also believes that they have the experience of what has worked well and not well and the same will be good for the future too. It would be difficult for them to publicly state that there are areas that need to improve and that there is a need to innovate and adapt to the changing market environment. Sometimes it is also a statement of “” We know best”” and therefore being blinded to potential opportunities that need to be pursued. On the other hand, the new guard also comes with experience that is outside of the company and is able to dispassionately look at what are the things that need improvement and what are the possible opportunities and capabilities that can propel the company to meet the demands of the future. However, it is important that the new guard acknowledges the strengths of the company, what has worked well and how the same can be reinforced to meet future business growth. This black and white demonstration of this activity expressed the need for the entire leadership team to do a dispassionate SWOT (Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats), exchange ideas and bring the collective experience of the old guard and the new guard over the next 3 days to draw up a blue print on how the company can be innovative and successful in the backdrop of a rapidly changing market environment. The most important need was to let go of preconceived notions on both sides, examine issues objectively and be honest in their assessments of what needs to be retained, dropped and changed (RDC model). It is never easy but companies need to constantly do this to seamlessly integrate old and new teams, have clarity on the overall vision/ shared goals and set up strong engagement models to deliver excellence in their business pursuits. On the last day of this program post deliberations, this same team was asked to occupy positions to express their agreement and disagreement to the same statement that was shared on day 1. This time, there were more people of the old guard who had shifted towards the right of the room and more people of the new guard who had shifted marginally to the left from their earlier position but essentially showing a shift of about 65% now disagreeing with the statement and 35% agreeing with the statement from the earlier number 25% and 75% respectively. It was a great beginning to understand where the company stands as of now and what the entire team in its collective wisdom and experience needs to do to ensure that 100% of them agree with this statement in the next 6 months to 1 year. Collective Ownership, shared goals, strong team engagement and adaption to change is the only way to deliver strong sustainable business performance.

Dilpreeta Vasudeva CMO at FirstLiving Spaces Linkedin ; Website ; Instagram The best AI, you ask? The one no one notices-because it just works. Having spent the better part of my career in tech-led businesses, I’ve learnt something simple: You don’t need to be technical to understand the potential solutions tech unlocks. And that’s exactly my area of curiosity- What does AI   actually   unleash for marketers? Because no matter how passionate we get about the tech, customers don’t care what tech you use and honestly so don’t I-only that it works. Here are 4 areas where I believe AI changes the game: 1. Performance ≠ Just Predictive Models 💡 AI’s edge isn’t in automation and scale. It lies in  amplifying relevance, unlocking precision , and  accelerating curiosity . ❌ “How do we automate media buying & scale impressions?” ✅“Who do we talk to, when, with what—and what’s about to stop working?” 🎯 Use AI for: Dynamic audience reshuffling & smarter channel mix Funnel-stage personalization & ghosting prediction Spotting micro-triggers in conversion drop-offs Real-time budget reallocation + bid optimization Hypothesis-driven micro-tests• Multivariate testing across creatives & journeys 🧠  Are we using AI to get answers—or to ask smarter questions? 2. Brand & Creative ≠ Voice + Volume 💡 AI doesn’t invent your brand voice or replace human creativity. It  unlocks creative velocity  and  enables intelligent personalization . ❌ “Can AI write our brand story & generate content?” ✅ “Can it uphold our tone, values, and adapt creative intelligently?” 🎯 Use AI for: Voice-safe templates that scale Dynamic resizing, tagging, & language variations Testing thumbnails, CTAs, & message variants Scaling one idea into multiple personalized formats Flagging tone inconsistencies before publishing 🧠  Is AI helping us tell more relevant stories—or just more stories? 3. CX ≠ Just Chatbots 💡 AI isn’t here to make life easier for the brand—it’s here to do so for the customer.  Experience equity > resolution speed. ❌ “How do we automate support?” ✅ “How can we proactively create moments of ease, trust, and delight?” 🎯 Use AI for: Solving predictable issues before they escalate Friction-point prediction based on journey & sentiment data Personalized recovery nudges (credits, callbacks) Invisible anticipatory design (autofill, skip steps, save states) 🧠  Customers don’t want a ‘smart assistant.’ They want zero reasons to reach out. 4. Leadership ≠ AI Cheerleading 💡 You don’t need to be the most AI-forward. But you do need to  own its impact . ❌ “What’s our AI strategy?” ✅ “What business problem is AI solving—and can we measure it?” 🎯 Use AI for: Streamlining ops & cross-functional chaos Reviewing what AI actually got right (or didn’t) Modeling pricing, churn, and growth scenarios 🧠  Are you treating AI as a tool to manage—or a capability to lead? AI isn’t for better metrics alone. It’s for better decisions.

T. Mohan Chandra Aviation Consultant & Advisor Connect: 9819915824 or Email (Acknowledge the need for change and the challenges facing the current education system) The following are 13 suggestions to improve the quality of education: 1. Education Quality Management System (EQMS) : Before implementing any process or system, both statutory bodies and educational organizations should practice predictive and proactive approaches. 2. The syllabus/curriculum should be revised to support employment, professional business, or entrepreneurship. 3. Due to the exposure of the new generation to world activities through hi-tech gadgets, there is a need for human science and decision-making ability-related subjects at the school level to avoid confusion and threats to the next generation. 4. The knowledge-based effective system, i.e., objective/application type examination system, should be introduced to align with industry practices and global business trends, as quality knowledge and good talent have become a rare commodity due to the number game of marks in the existing system. 5. To create a better generation, a quality practice teacher system should be introduced as the knowledge gain depends on the teacher's ability and the student's capability. 6. The stay-connected syndrome is killing the precious time and energy of the younger generation, leading to confusion and chaos due to more unwanted inputs/information. An authenticated guidance group or system should be introduced to provide the right direction and support for positive growth. 7. A stress management system should be introduced in the school environment to encourage multidisciplinary or multitasking ability, which will help individuals deal with stress and develop a risk appetite culture. 8. An industry-driven syllabus should be introduced in education, instead of focusing solely on a technology-based syllabus, as the industry only supports skills relevant to employment. 9. An international teacher-student ratio should be introduced for standard and quality enhancement, as the existing teacher-student ratio is alarming and the standard of education has reached the bottom level, making the teaching of complex ideas difficult and almost missing. 10. Direct application-oriented research activities should be encouraged, rather than research for degree purposes. 11. Industry expertise participation should be encouraged in the school/college education system to understand aspiration and reality mismatch and encourage the vision and risk appetite needed for industrial global trends. 12. " The essence of education lies in the concentration of the mind, not just the accumulation of facts. Therefore, schools should introduce and encourage activities that enhance focus to promote good health and a sound mind. This will help young minds utilize their time and energy effectively with clarity and focus. " 13. Education should not be seen as a mere survival tool, but rather as a means for the holistic development of individuals, empowering them to lead an extraordinary life. As the saying goes, " A person's worth is determined by the associate/company they keep ". Therefore, it is important to create a positive and nurturing environment within schools where students can associate with people who are good-hearted and are surrounded by positivity. “Believe in Positive Systems, Processes and Nurturing World Class Culture for Successful Cost-Effective Projects”

Dr. Devyani Rozario Corporate Professional/Academician/Soft skills Trainer/Happiness Coach,/Life Coach/Ex State President Maharashtra Marketing Council, WICCI Linkedin Profile ; Website We’ve all met people who seem to effortlessly light up a room at any place be it office or a get-together. But what makes them shine so brightly? I dropped in to meet Liza, my cousin. It had been months since we had met. I found her to be a bit low and that seemed unusual. I mentioned that and she said, “I have a bad back pain for the last few months. It is strange, the kind that comes and goes, but when it comes, I can’t even stand straight.” Why haven’t you seen a doctor? She said, “I have been to a doctor, and he said to go to the physiotherapist. I have been talking to my friends and some said I should go to an orthopaedic. I googled my symptoms, and it suggested a neurologist. I am confused and worried.” I realized Lisa’s case is all about decision-making. The conversation we had gave her the courage to take a decision. People procrastinate in making decisions, especially, when it is about themselves. Let us look at reasons that contribute to this behaviour. Psychological Factors You may be worried about the uncertainty about the outcome of your decision. The prospect of negative consequences is frightening, it makes you choose to defer your decision-making. You seek the opinion of too many people, conflicting opinions, too many options, or complex situations lead to analysis paralysis and result in your deferring decisions. The ideal outcome is what you are looking for. You want everything to be perfect. This again can delay decision-making. If something you must do requires a new skill, the thought of learning something new does not excite you as you are not sure whether you can harness the new skill, it is likely you will defer the decision. Self-doubt hampers your ability to make the right choice and delays decision-making. Your childhood memories of your parents/elders/teacher criticizing you for making poor decisions, may make you tend to avoid making decisions for  fear of being seen as a failure . Do you constantly worry about what others think? If you are a person who wants to please everyone, you may find yourself struggling internally between what you want and what others want. Thus, making it difficult to decide what you should do. Hence, learning to say “No” makes it easier to decide on an action and move forward. If whatever you have to do requires you to move out of your comfort zone, the chances are that you will procrastinate. Emotional Factors You may delay taking a decision because you want to postpone associated feelings like hurting someone or disappointment to parents or other family members/friends. Typically, if you want to go against the wishes of close ones, this becomes a bigger dilemma. You are attached to something or someone and letting go is tough. This makes it difficult to choose between alternatives, making you procrastinate when making the decision. If you are a person who tends to think negatively, it can become challenging to look at the positives in the decision-making process. Practical Factors Insufficient data or lack of interpretation of the available information can hinder decision-making. Busy schedules can postpone important personal decisions. Opinions or expectations of others can influence delay in decision-making. The most common matters people procrastinate about are: Relationship commitments –   choosing a life partner.   Starting a family –   are you both ready to start a family?   Career –   whether to stick to the current job or change? Major life transitions –   moving from the family home to a new city/country  or starting a family are major decisions that get deferred because of indecisiveness.  Financial decisions –   Balancing immediate needs with future aspirations , peer pressure, and societal expectations influences financial decisions. Health-related choices –   Decisions to start going to the gym/walking, eating healthy food, etc. are easily put aside. Practicing hobbies –   Hobbies are a fantastic way to relax, learn, and grow.  Unfortunately, this is another area that takes a backseat. Did you know that deferring a decision causes stress and leads to unhappiness? It can have consequences like a dissatisfied life and emotional disturbance causing depression. Therefore, looking forward to a stress-free and happy life it is better to start making decisions. Here are a few tips you can adopt to start becoming decisive: Have confidence in your ability to decide. It involves taking risks. Self-doubt can be the biggest deterrent to building self-confidence. Believe in yourself, when you start trusting yourself, decision-making and remaining with the decision becomes easier. If you need to discuss, choose a close friend, relative, or mentor you trust and discuss it threadbare. Sometimes, if you open up to someone, the discussion helps you to decide as you suddenly see areas to consider that you had missed out in your thoughts. Asking many people about what to do will only confuse you further. It is you who know what you want. Weigh the pros and cons and decide at that moment what appears to be the best option and make the decision. Learn to trust your intuition. Have faith in yourself and God. If you find more than one option, evaluate the options by writing down the pros and cons, and then pick the one that best suits you. Writing down brings more clarity. Set deadlines to make the decision. Be firm with yourself. To begin with, it appears tough, but it is possible to get over procrastination. (link to the article on procrastination). Let the fear of making a wrong decision not deter you from making the choice. Remember, a decision is always taken at a point in time when it seems right. In hindsight, the same decision may be wrong. Let the thought of making an incorrect decision not trouble you, instead look at the experience to gain wisdom. Congratulate yourself for every decision you make. It will boost your morale. Are you ready to make decisions?

Dr. Yogesh Suradkar Founder & CEO of YOGEE Beauty & Wellness Pvt Ltd Consultant, Startup Mentor, Ex VP R&I L'Oréal, P&G, Marico LinkedIn Are you truly alive or just running on autopilot? Most of us wake up tired, chase goals that don’t fulfill us, scroll through life instead of living it, and call that “normal.” But what if wellness wasn’t a to-do list, a supplement stack, or the next green smoothie? What if wellness was remembering who you really are beyond the noise, the stress, the sugar highs and cortisol crashes? Welcome to Holistic Wellness. Not the Instagram kind. The real, raw, rhythmic kind. “Health is a state of body. Wellness is a state of being.” — J. Stanford It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being in tune. When you start living in alignment, you realize your body, mind, emotions, spirit, and surroundings aren’t separate; they’re deeply intertwined. What you feel is what you digest. What you eat shapes how you think. Who you’re around can either heal you or harm you. Let’s break it down, soul-first: 🧠 Mental Wellness Protect your peace. Think slower. Learn something that lights you up. 💪 Physical Wellness Move with joy, not guilt. Sleep like your cells depend on it—because they do. 💖 Emotional Wellness Don’t numb it—name it. Feel it. Heal it. Your emotions are not your enemies; they’re messengers. 🕊️ Spiritual Wellness Silence isn’t empty. It’s full of answers. Whether it’s nature, prayer, or breath—connect to something greater. 🌍 Environmental Wellness Your skin doesn’t just wear what you put on it—it absorbs your air, your water, your mood. Live clean, inside out. 👥 Social Wellness Your nervous system responds to love. Choose people who feel like sunlight. 💼 Purpose & Money Wellness Your peace is your greatest asset. Align your work with your why. Spend less on things and more on meaning. You don’t have to overhaul your life. Just start with one breath, one walk, one glass of water. At YOGEZ we believe in Bio-Aligned Living, a Soul-Science™ philosophy where ancient Ayurvedic rhythms meet modern microbiome science. Every product, every ritual is crafted to help you not just survive, but truly thrive. So here’s your gentle nudge: Not to hustle harder, but to pause. Not to fix yourself, but to feel yourself. Not to escape, but to return to your most aligned self. True well-being is the harmony of everything.  - Your mind.  - Your body.  - Your microbiome.  - Your emotions.  - Your environment.  - Your choices. Holistic wellness isn’t a destination. It’s the rhythm of your life when you finally remember the beat. Begin again. Gently. Reclaim it, rhythm by rhythm.

Lavanya Karthik Madhuri Parthasarathy Dipti Kapadia, Dipali Vyas and Rani, Sakshi, Namita EI Eco Crusaders Team Reachout to Us How a community-led composting movement is turning daily waste into something truly wonderful. In the heart of our bustling EI community, something remarkable is unfolding —in the quiet corners of P1 (near basketball Court) where waste becomes compost, and compost becomes life . Welcome to the world of EI Eco Crusaders  — a group of residents and staff working together to ensure our society manages its waste sustainably and responsibly. With green representatives from every tower , and the invaluable support of our housekeeping staff , the Eco Crusaders have built an efficient and deeply impactful composting ecosystem — one that’s become a model for urban residential communities.  The Process: From Kitchen Waste to Garden Gold Kitchen Waste to Garden Gold Everyday in Phase 1 of EI, 450–480 kg of wet waste  is generated — vegetable peels, food scraps, fruit waste. Instead of sending this to a landfill, this waste is segregated at source  and moved to composting bins within the premises. Through careful monitoring and processing, this waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost  — about 1,000 kg every month. This compost feeds our own society gardens and is also sold — making the model economically sustainable  too. Here’s a snapshot of last year’s compost usage: 🌼  Used in EI Gardens: 2,465 kg 🛍️ Sold to EI Residents:  220 kg 🚛  Bulk Sales to External Buyers:  7,000 kg The earnings are reinvested to expand and improve the composting infrastructure — including adding new bins and supplies. Nothing goes to waste — not even the waste. The team also champions the creation of bio-enzymes  using simple ingredients like citrus peels and jaggery. These are used as natural cleaners and plant boosters, reducing the need for harsh chemicals in our green spaces.  Meet the Faces Behind the Movement At the core of this powerful initiative are three passionate women  — Madhuri Parthasarathy, Dipti Kapadia, and Lavanya Karthik They are the heart, mind, and soul of the Eco Crusaders movement. They’ve spent countless hours planning the system, managing the finances, coordinating with staff, and measuring outcomes — all without seeking any fanfare. Their contribution isn’t about titles or recognition — it’s about scientific thinking, quiet leadership, and relentless commitment  to a better, greener way of life for our EI.  Why It Matters The Eco Crusaders have shown us that sustainability isn't an abstract concept . It's real, doable, and something each one of us can contribute to — whether it’s segregating correctly, respecting collection norms, or simply appreciating the effort behind that bag of compost. They’ve proven that with collaboration, care, and consistency, even 700 flats worth of daily waste  can become a source of goodness instead of pollution. So the next time you drop off your wet waste or walk past a blooming marigold in the garden, pause for a moment. Somewhere in its roots is the care, effort, and vision of the Eco Crusaders — making our community not just cleaner, but kinder to the planet. Let’s not just applaud them. Let’s join them.

Dr. Narendra Palan Industrial Physician Ph No: 98206 01529 LinkedIn Profile Edited by: Namya Aggarwal Rain may cool the air — but it heats up health risks. Don’t let the season catch you off guard. Here are some precautionary measures to stay ahead:  1. Stay Dry & Clean Keep your body warm and dry , especially your feet, to avoid fungal infections. Use anti-fungal talcum powder on areas prone to sweating. Do not stay in wet clothes for long as it can lead to infections, fever, and body aches. Take a bath twice a day using warm water and an antiseptic to remove impurities and prevent skin infections. Wash your hands frequently and keep your surroundings clean. Do not allow stagnant water to accumulate in or around the house to prevent mosquito breeding. 2. Eat Safe, Drink Safe Drink plenty of purified or boiled water to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration. Avoid carbonated drinks , opt for warm beverages like ginger tea. Eat freshly cooked food , preferably soups and stews, which are light and nutritious. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly , especially leafy greens. Avoid eating outside , particularly street food and cut fruits, as they may carry harmful bacteria. Consume food in moderate quantity , and avoid keeping it exposed to air for too long. 3 . Diet Avoid overeating , as digestion slows down during monsoon. Include vegetables like bitter gourd, carrots, radish , and herbs like neem and turmeric . Add fruits like apples, bananas, pomegranates, cherries, litchis, and plums to your diet. Spices such as pepper, hing, coriander, and turmeric support digestion and immunity. 4. Block Infections Consult a doctor if fever lasts more than two days , as it could indicate malaria, dengue, or typhoid. Use mosquito repellents, nets, window screens , and creams to prevent bites. Wear appropriate clothing like long-sleeved shirts and pants to avoid skin exposure. Drain water from unused flower pots and coolers to prevent mosquito breeding. 5. Mind Your Feet! Keep your feet dry and clean ; avoid puddles and damp environments. If feet get wet, immediately clean and dry them with a soft towel. Use rubber-soled footwear for better grip; avoid leather shoes which get damaged in water. Do not walk barefoot, and keep socks, shoes, and raincoats clean and dry . Special care should be taken by diabetics , as they are more prone to foot infections. 6. Dress for Protection Wear loose, cotton clothes to stay comfortable and well-ventilated. Avoid jeans , as they take time to dry. Use talcum or prickly heat powder in areas prone to fungal infections. Use rainwear when stepping outside to remain dry and avoid catching a cold. 7. Watch the Vulnerable! Children are more vulnerable during monsoon; ensure a hot water bath with antiseptic after outdoor play. Provide homemade soups and stews for balanced nutrition. Elderly should avoid walking in parks or slippery areas after rains to prevent falls and injuries. 8. Guard Your Eyes! Common issues include conjunctivitis, dry eyes, and styes. Wash hands before touching your face or eyes . Do not share towels, eye drops, or contact lens solutions . Avoid eye makeup during infections and do not use contact lenses if infected. Apply antibacterial lotion as needed.

Dr. Mukul Kaushik Head of Interventional Cardiology Nahar Medical Center ; Seven Hills Hospital; Holy Spirit Hospital; Criticare Asia Multispecialty Hospitals; Guru Nanak Hospital Practo ; Every Minute Counts: Recognize, Respond, Recover. Heart attack is a condition wherein out of three arteries one or two arteries gets completely occluded leading to severe chest pain breathing difficulty. Heart attacks are of two types major & minor. Major heart attack occurs due to complete occlusion of a coronary artery. Minor heart attack occurs due to partial occlusion of coronary artery. Major heart attack is always life endangering & requires prompt treatment either primary angioplasty or thrombolytic therapy. Minor heart attack requires medical stabilization followed by coronary intervention. Early signs of heart attack are severe left sided chest pain with perspiration. In diabetics chest pain does not occur. In cases of heart attack it is advisable to take tab Ecosprin 150 mg clopidogrel 150 mg & Rosuvas 40 mg & immediately rush to the hospital. Cardiac arrest is a condition where heart stops functioning completely & it is because of multiple reasons heart attack being one of them On should undergo Cardiopulmonary resuscitation at that time Conclusion: Early recognition and timely care can save lives. Whether it’s knowing the warning signs, taking immediate steps with medication, or reaching the hospital without delay, every action matters. Advances in treatment today mean that even major heart attacks are survivable when addressed quickly. Stay informed, stay prepared, and remember—hope and help are always within reach.

Harish Dixit Senior Infrastructure Manager – APAC Linkedin Are you chasing perfection or progress ? Picture a butterfly refusing to leave its cocoon because its wings aren’t flawless yet. That’s what perfectionism feels like. It keeps you stuck, grounded and stops you from soaring. Many of us wait for the “perfect” moment, the “perfect” plan, or the “perfect” version of ourselves before we act. But here’s the truth: perfection is a cage , not a goal. Perfectionism often hides behind good intentions. You want to do your best, avoid mistakes, and impress others. But in trying to do everything flawlessly, you end up doing less or nothing at all. Progress, on the other hand, is about movement. It’s about taking off, even if your wings are a little shaky. Think of a sparrow. It doesn’t wait for the wind to be just right. It flaps, it stumbles, it learns. That’s how progress works. You don’t need to be perfect to begin. You just need to begin. Here’s the secret : most of the time, “good enough” is more than enough. That email you’re rewriting for the tenth time? Send it. That project you’re scared to start? Start it. You’ll learn more by doing than by waiting. Perfectionism also feeds on fear, fear of failure, embarrassment, or not being good enough. But what if failing isn’t the end? What if it’s just part of flying? Every bird falls before it learns to glide. Every mistake is a feather in your wing, not a flaw. Let’s talk about time. You often spend 80% of your time trying to perfect the last 20% of a task. That’s time you could spend with loved ones, resting, or doing something joyful. Let go of the tiny details that don’t matter. Focus on what does. Also, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Your worth isn’t tied to one grade, one job, or one opinion. Let your value come from many places: your kindness, your effort, your relationships, your growth. And finally, consider stepping away from social media. Constant comparison is like flying through a storm. You don’t need to see everyone else’s highlight reel to know your journey matters. Play a game you’re bad at. Try a new hobby. Let yourself be a beginner. You’ll feel awkward at first. But you’ll also feel free. Entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, captured this mindset in his book  Screw It, Let’s Do It . In it, he shares lessons from his bold, imperfect, and adventurous life. It’s a call to action, to take chances, and to live fully. Even when things aren’t perfect. So let go of perfect, and let yourself soar.

Harinath Strategy & Growth – Reliance Retail; EI Outlook Editor Linkedin Profile We all know someone like Ram. Bright. Ambitious. Thoughtful. But unsure at times—like all of us. Life doesn’t always give us the roadmap we need. Sometimes, we stumble. We wait for a turning point. A lucky accident. A saviour. Ram’s journey teaches us something else: what if we didn’t wait? 1. Counselling – A Childhood Trauma That Stayed Quiet Ram was in 4th standard when he was asked to read the morning news in school. It was in Hindi—a language he wasn’t confident in. He froze on stage. Fumbled. His teacher scolded him in front of everyone. His legs shook. Another teacher tried to comfort him—but the damage was done. That one moment buried his confidence. He never stepped on a stage again. Shivering in Front of Mic Decades later, he realised what he really needed then was not criticism, but counselling —a safe conversation, a comforting hand, a voice that said, “It’s okay.” Had someone just helped him process that fear, he might have embraced the stage instead of avoiding it for 30 years. 2. Life Coaching – When Silence Hurt More Than Noise Ram’s first job was hard. His boss was toxic. The work hours were brutal. He stayed for three years , burning out in silence. He didn’t seek help. He thought he had to “just endure.” It affected his health, his family, and his peace of mind. Few year later, a life coach  helped him unpack that phase. They spoke about boundaries, priorities, and asking for help. The coach helped Ram see how he had handed his power to others—unknowingly. Cross Roads A life coach won’t solve your life. But they’ll help you see how to take control of it again. Ram’s takeaway? Never wait for the breakdown to ask for help. 3. Mentoring – When Growth Felt Like a Question Mark Years later, Ram was doing well in his career. Seven years into a stable job, with a supportive boss and a solid reputation. But something didn’t feel right. The challenges had dried up. He feared becoming stagnant. He met a mentor —a retired leader from a similar field—who asked him: "Are you looking for growth outside, or meaning inside?" Mentoring The mentor shared how, during his own plateaus, he found new problems to solve, new skills to learn. That kept him motivated. Mentors don’t give answers. They reflect your own thoughts back—clearer, calmer. Ram realised: he didn’t need a new job. He needed a new problem worth solving. 4. Career Coaching – Bridging the Generation Gap Today, Ram leads a team spread across the country. He connects well with peers, but struggles with younger Gen Z team members. They’re quiet, unresponsive unless prompted. He’s tried being friendly, strict, supportive—nothing worked. He feared a disconnect. Then, two Gen Z employees in another team were removed for silly mischief like proxy attendance. When Ram saw them crying, it hit him: "Do I really know my team? Will I know if they’re in trouble?" He turned to a career coach . The coach didn’t lecture. He asked Ram to flip the situation: "Have you tried asking them for help? Showing them your vulnerability?" So Ram tried. He told his team, “I’m stuck on a problem—can you help me think through it?” It worked. Slowly, trust was built. Career Coaching Career coaching isn’t about giving instructions. It’s about unlocking others . And the Best Part – Help Lives Among Us Ram’s story is real. And it’s not rare. We all carry our own versions of these phases—moments we could have navigated better, if only we had someone to guide us. That’s why, in our EI community , we’re lucky. We have certified coaches , mentors , counsellors , and professionals—who’ve offered to help. Whether you’re: A mid-career professional at a crossroads A working woman returning after a break A student unsure of your next step A parent trying to balance work and home Or just someone who needs to talk Help is just a conversation away. These experts offer their time for a nominal fee—just enough to ensure commitment, not cost. Don’t Wait for the Accident Ram waited. Sometimes the help came. Sometimes it didn’t. But now, he lives by this: Help doesn’t always arrive by accident. Sometimes, you have to ask. And when you do, you’ll realise—it was always just an arm’s length away. Don't Hesitate to ASK

Shaurya Tyagi Head of Digital Marketing – JSW Group LinkedIn When you step into our gated community each evening, you're not just entering a residential complex—you're walking into an ecosystem that quietly dictates every purchasing decision, social interaction, and business opportunity within its boundaries. As someone who has spent years understanding how culture shapes commerce, first at HDFC Life , where I worked on pension, investment and protection products, then as Digital Marketing Lead at OPPO in the SEA market , and currently at JSW Group , I've witnessed that successful businesses are those that crack the cultural code of their communities. Powai's transformation from a tiny hamlet surrounding IIT Bombay to Mumbai's premier residential destination mirrors a broader phenomenon across India's urban landscape. What makes places like Shapoorji Pallonji Vicinia or the broader Hiranandani Complex more than just housing is the emergence of distinct cultural identities that drive specific consumption patterns. These are cultural signals that communicate values, aspirations, and a sense of belonging to both residents and the broader market. Our community's culture operates like an invisible hand guiding economic activity. When residents in gated societies prioritise sustainability and organic food stores, eco-friendly services naturally gravitate toward these areas. When fitness becomes a cultural cornerstone, specialised health coaches, wellness centres, and sports facilities emerge. The presence of facilities like Galleria Shopping Mall and R City Mall in proximity to Powai isn't coincidental—it's a direct response to the community's preferences and purchasing power. Understanding this relationship between culture and commerce isn't just academic theory; it's practical intelligence that drives real business growth. The dynamics within gated communities create what sociologist Émile Durkheim called "collective effervescence" —shared emotional experiences that bind groups together. In the context of the Powai’s community, this might manifest as weekend morning walks around the Lake, celebrating festivals, or informal gatherings at local cafes. These moments of collective experience create shared meaning and consumption preferences for businesses. When community members develop similar tastes through cultural interaction, they become predictable customers for companies that understand their language. The economic data tells a compelling story about the commercial impact of culture. In terms of price appreciation/depreciation , flat rates in Powai, Mumbai, have i ncreased by 7.8% over the last year, 20.7% over the previous three years, 28.4% over the last five years, and 51.3% from a decade earlier. Source: 99 Acres It isn't merely about supply and demand—it reflects the cultural premium residents place on being part of a community that aligns with their identity. When culture drives real estate values, it also drives the commercial ecosystem that serves these communities. For CXOs living in these environments, understanding your community's cultural dynamics offers competitive advantages that extend far beyond your residential experience. The patterns you observe in your housing society—whether it's the preference for specific brands, the adoption of new technologies, or the way people socialise—often predict broader market trends. Your community becomes a living laboratory for understanding how culture influences consumer behaviour across demographic segments. The commercial ecosystem surrounding gated communities operates on a principle of cultural reciprocity. Businesses that succeed in serving these communities don't just provide products or services—they reinforce cultural identity. The restaurants that thrive understand the community's dining culture, the retail outlets stock brands that align with residents' self-image, and service providers adopt communication styles that resonate with the community's values. This cultural alignment creates customer loyalty that transcends price competition. What makes India's emerging gated communities particularly fascinating is how they blend global aspirations with local cultural roots. Businesses that navigate these cultural nuances successfully create deeper connections with their customers and build more sustainable growth. The key insight for understanding community-driven commerce is recognising that culture isn't just context, but rather it's the primary driver of economic activity. The future of marketing belongs to those who understand that commerce isn't just about transactions; instead, it's about cultural connections. In communities like ours, where culture and commerce intersect daily, this understanding becomes the difference between businesses that merely survive and those that thrive as integral parts of the community's cultural ecosystem.

Harish Dixit Senior Infrastructure Manager – APAC Linkedin A new cybersecurity threat is emerging in the remote work era. Hackers using artificial intelligence to deceive employers during video interviews. According to recent security reports, North Korean operatives are at the forefront of this sophisticated scam, posing as remote IT workers to infiltrate foreign companies. How the Scam Works These cybercriminals create fake profiles using stolen identities and apply for remote programming and development positions. During video interviews, they use what experts call “laptop farms” , a network of devices that help simulate legitimate remote workers. The fraudsters often exhibit inconsistencies that only trained eyes can spot, such as strong accents that don’t match their claimed backgrounds. Advanced AI avatars are now being used to create convincing fake video appearances. These digital personas can fool automated screening systems and even experienced recruiters, appearing as realistic during video calls. Real-World Impact In a recent case, a recruitment team for high-end medical laboratory work discovered an AI avatar fraud after an applicant passed through two layers of service provider filtering. Only when the hiring manager asked the interviewee to raise their right hand during the video call did the deception become apparent. The avatar could only display head and shoulders. The company is now reviewing six months of previous interviews and hires. The consequences extend far beyond simple employment fraud. One London-based company unknowingly hired North Korean operatives who gained access to internal systems through remote desktop applications. For four months, these fake employees funneled company earnings to the North Korean regime before being discovered. After their dismissal, the company received ransom demands for six-figure cryptocurrency payments. A cybersecurity training company reported a similar experience, noting that despite public warnings about such incidents, fraudulent applications continue to represent a significant portion of their candidate pool. Protection Strategies Companies can defend themselves through several key measures: Enhanced screening: Conduct thorough background checks and verify identities through in-person interviews, ensuring the applicant’s appearance matches their documentation. Simple physical requests, like asking candidates to move their hands or turn their head, can expose AI avatars. Technical monitoring: Implement strict access controls, monitor login locations for anomalies, and track company devices carefully. Employee awareness: Train HR and IT staff to recognize red flags, including the potential use of AI tools to create fake resumes or manipulate video appearances. Reporting systems: Encourage teams to report suspicious activities in remote work setups. As AI technology becomes more sophisticated, the line between genuine and fraudulent candidates continues to blur, making vigilant hiring practices more critical than ever.