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Neha Suradkar Co- Founder of YOGEE Beauty & Wellness Pvt Ltd Assistant Professor (Fashion History, Styling) LinkedIn Fashion and Design Educator, Entrepreneur, Style Coach™ and Advocate of Timeless Thinking (The oldest human skill that defines success in the modern workplace) Once Upon a Time… Before communication skills became a résumé essential, stories were our first teachers. We were told stories at bedtime, in classrooms, during power cuts, and at the dinner table. We learnt empathy from a Lion and a Mouse, focus from Arjuna, and adaptability from a thirsty crow. We did not realise it then, but those tales were life lessons in disguise. They were our earliest training in being human.   Fast-forward to today’s world of presentations, dashboards, and data. We may have swapped bedtime tales for boardroom slides, but the rule remains the same- the one who excels in telling the story gets heard. Because stories connect with people - The teacher who builds curiosity through stories shapes minds, not just marksheets. The designer who tells a story through design creates emotion, not just products. The stylist who understands the wearer’s story elevates identity, not just looks. The doctor who listens to a patient’s story heals, not just treats. The leader who shares their lived experience earns loyalty, not just authority. The brand that builds meaning gets love, not just clicks.  We are drowning in information and are hungry for attention. Data informs, logic convinces, but stories… they are the ones that move hearts.   The Soft Skills Hidden in Stories Long before ‘emotional intelligence’ and ‘resilience’ became buzzwords, stories taught us those lessons intuitively. They were told at bedtime, whispered by grandparents, acted out in Ramlila, and drawn in Amar Chitra Katha . The lion’s mercy showed empathy; Arjuna’s focus taught clarity; the monkey’s wit reflected critical thinking; the crow’s persistence demonstrated resourcefulness; and bamboo’s calm flexibility in storms reminded us that real strength lies in adaptability, not resistance. These tales from mythology and fables served as frameworks for emotional intelligence, long before HR introduced the term. We may have forgotten the details, but the lessons stayed.   From Fire Circles to Reels From ancient campfires to 30-second reels, storytelling has remained humanity’s oldest form of communication. As children, many of us fell asleep to stories; stories of mythology, morals, fables, and family legends. I still remember my father narrating tales from the mythology, full of wit, valour, and layered wisdom. Or my grandparents narrating their experiences from the time of partition, about resilience and rebuilding life from scratch. Those stories not only entertained me, but they also formed me. They shaped my values, sparked my curiosity about mythology, history, and life, and taught me to see the world through layers of meaning. Now that I am familiar with the basic narrative, I focus on the deeper context of life when I watch or read history or mythology. And that early exposure still shapes how I teach, create, and connect. Whether it is a founder pitching an idea or a teacher explaining a concept, stories turn information into insight and make it more relatable. We often mistake storytelling for flair to be incorporated in TED Talks or motivational speeches.  But the truth most of us underestimate is that someone who can tell the story almost always wins, not because of credentials or hard work, but because they make you feel their idea.   Storytelling is not only for authors or speakers. It is a professional tool, and one must learn to use it intentionally. Start with “why.” Facts tell people what you do. Stories tell them why it matters. Pair data with emotion. Numbers persuade faster when paired with meaning. Share your journey. People connect with honesty, not perfection. Make it part of your culture. Open meetings, classes, and presentations with a story, and watch attention follow.   The Bedtime Skill That Builds the Boardroom The stories that once put us to sleep now wake audiences up. Whether you are coding, consulting, or styling, if you can tell the story of your work, you can sell it, scale it, and spark change with it. Stories have the power to quiet noise, build connection, and move people. Storytelling is not a skill we outgrow; it is the thread that connects our beginnings to our breakthroughs. If you can carry that same wonder, empathy, and imagination from your childhood stories into your work today, you will make storytelling your greatest professional superpower.

Shruthi Koka IT Professional-Engagement Delivery Partner Email In every era, progress has been shaped by a simple yet powerful force — innovation . From the steam engine to artificial intelligence, innovation has consistently rewritten the rules of growth. But today, as the pace of change accelerates, the question isn’t whether innovation drives growth - it’s how we can harness it effectively and sustainably. The Changing Definition of Innovation Once, innovation meant invention — creating something entirely new. Today, it’s about reimagining what already exists . A local café introducing online pre-orders, a hospital using data analytics to predict patient needs, or a student developing a climate-friendly startup - all are examples of innovation at work. Modern innovation is inclusive, digital, and deeply human . It connects ideas across disciplines, blurring the line between creativity and technology. Growth Through a New Lens In business, growth was long measured in revenue, market share, and expansion. But the most successful organizations now look beyond numbers. They see growth as a mindset - a culture that embraces curiosity, agility, and lifelong learning. Classic example is Apple , which transformed from a computer company to a lifestyle brand, or global corporates, which evolved through continuous reinvention. Both show that innovation isn’t a department  it’s a way of thinking embedded in every decision. The Courage to Experiment Every innovation story begins with a willingness to experiment  and often, to fail. Fear of failure remains one of the greatest barriers to progress. Yet, companies that encourage smart risk-taking and celebrate lessons learned are the ones that thrive. A global survey by PwC found that over 60% of top-performing companies credit their success to a culture of experimentation. Innovation flourishes not in rigid hierarchies but in environments where ideas are tested, refined, and reimagined. People: The True Innovators Behind every breakthrough are people — thinkers, creators, and everyday problem-solvers. From entrepreneurs to frontline employees, innovation happens wherever curiosity meets courage. Empowering teams to think differently, question assumptions, and share ideas freely is the real engine of growth. Leadership plays a pivotal role here. Visionary leaders don’t just manage - they inspire innovation. They listen, adapt, and create safe spaces for ideas to take shape. The Road Ahead As technology continues to evolve — from AI and robotics to green energy — the future of innovation lies in purpose-driven growth . The next generation of innovators won’t just chase profits, they’ll seek impact. They’ll create solutions that are sustainable, equitable, and transformative. In this new world, innovation isn’t a race to outdo others. It’s a journey of continuous learning and collaboration — one that fuels not only economic growth but also human progress. “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs Growth is no longer about size — it’s about staying relevant, resilient, and visionary and that begins with a single spark of innovation! Future of Innovation ELON MUSK 2035: The Ideas That Could Rewrite Humanity’s Future In an age where the extraordinary has become routine, the year 2035 stands as a new threshold. The world has changed—yet the hunger for bold innovation remains. Few names symbolize that ambition more than Elon Musk , whose ventures have stretched from underground tunnels to Martian horizons. As we imagine Musk a decade ahead—driven, relentless, and still reaching for the impossible—we ask a simple question: What comes next? 1. Space-Based Solar Power Stations Imagine massive solar farms floating in space, collecting sunlight unfiltered by atmosphere and beaming that power back to Earth. A global power source, renewable 24/7, capable of ending energy inequality forever. 2. The Autonomous Global Transport Grid By 2035, transportation could become a self-driving ecosystem: AI highways, robo-taxis, passenger drones, hyperloop pods, and autonomous cargo routes. 3. Neuralink’s Digital Twin Brain An AI-powered second brain that learns from you, thinks with you, and extends your cognitive limits. 4. RoboCities: The Next Urban Revolution Robotic swarms, 3D-printed architecture, and self-healing materials creating cities that build and repair themselves. 5. Planetary Data Vaults Orbital vaults preserving global knowledge, culture, and genetic libraries—a backup of civilization. 6. Personal Orbital Vehicles Electric micro-shuttles making low-orbit travel accessible and routine. 7. Climate Repair Machines Autonomous mega-systems cleaning oceans, removing carbon, and restoring ecological balance. The future belongs to those who dare to imagine boldly. Elon Musk of 2035 stands at the intersection of ambition and possibility, shaping the next chapter of human evolution. The future belongs to those who break limits—not accept them.

Shruti Malviya Founder Adar Learning Pvt Ltd LinkedIn ; Website Vinayak Rao A study abroad counselor at Gradmonk LinkedIn Design Your Future: Finding Purposeful Pathways by EI Library The problem isn’t that teenagers don’t know what they want to be. The problem is that we’re asking the wrong question. When I ran the workshop in Activity Room for Grade 9 to 11 students (a EI Library Initiative), something became clear immediately. The moment I asked, “What do you want to be?” — most of them froze. But when I shifted to, “What kind of life do you want to design?” pens started moving. Career guidance isn’t about giving the “right answer.” It’s about helping students discover their own. During the Good Time Journal, the patterns were surprising —not trophies or titles, but curiosity, teamwork, storytelling, building things, solving problems. Those aren’t hobbies. They’re clues. When we mapped energy → subjects → pathways, students realised why some subjects feel alive and others feel heavy — it’s not ability, it’s alignment. Then came Odyssey Plans — three possible futures, not one. Not to decide now, but to explore. By the end, nobody left with a “final career choice.” They left with next steps — shadow someone, join a club, talk to a professional, try something small. Because the goal of counseling isn’t to predict the future. It’s to teach students how to design it. Teenagers don’t need pressure to choose the “right career.” They need space to discover who they are becoming. Feedback for the Event Book an expert consultation with : Vinayak Rao (Education Consultant) on 9819700567 Shruti Malviya ( Adar Learning Pvt Ltd) on 9650753888

Harinath Strategy & Growth – Reliance Retail; EI Outlook Editor Linkedin Profile Insights from our Book Club Discussion on The Power of Professional Coaching Before we met for the book-club evening, everyone had two to three weeks with the book and their assigned stories. Four seasoned coaches—each carrying decades of lived experience, corporate journeys, and human observations—joined an audience that was equally curious, ambitious, and hungry for personal growth. If Episode 1 explored awareness , Episode 2 moves deeper into the terrain of blind spots , belief systems , and the courage to see oneself without filters . What unfolded wasn't just a book discussion. It was a masterclass in understanding the human mind. When we pause to understand ourselves, the path ahead becomes unmistakably clear. 1. When a Person’s Limiting Belief… Mirrors the Coach’s An audience member asked a provocative question: “What happens if the coachee’s limiting belief is also the coach’s?” The room paused—because this was real. Coaches are human too. One of our panelists explained that this is where training becomes essential. Coaching—unlike advising— requires the coach to suspend their own bias , their instinct to solve, their mental shortcuts. The coach must ask questions the way a child would: with curiosity, with innocence, with no hidden agenda. They spoke about undergoing months of practice: recording sessions being evaluated for unconscious judgement being checked for “solution-giving tendencies” learning to hold silence learning to trust the coachee’s pace Coaching, therefore, is not expertise talking down. It is awareness rising up. 2. The Challenge of Fast Thinkers vs. Slow Responders Another insight emerged when someone asked: “How do you switch between two clients in a day who are completely opposite in temperament?” One coach described working with people from different countries—UK, Europe, India—and how cultural conditioning shapes how people express discomfort, confidence, or disagreement. The lesson for all of us was clear: You don’t coach the résumé—you coach the person sitting in front of you. This reinforced something meaningful for our EI community: Even in families, teams, committees, and volunteer groups, each person’s style needs a different kind of listening . 3. Story from the Book: The Woman Who Wanted to Remove Her Glasses Narrator 4 shared one of the most memorable cases from the book. A senior IT leader walked into a coaching session and said: “I want to get rid of my glasses today.” It sounded odd—until she explained that her glasses “made her see the world’s sadness”. She felt overwhelmed by everything she could not fix. At work, she was a fast problem-solver. But outside work, she felt helpless when there was no quick solution. Through coaching, she realised: Some problems are not hers to solve. Some situations only need acknowledgement, not action. Helplessness reduces when acceptance increases. The audience quietly absorbed this. Many nodded—because many of us carry invisible burdens we never name. 4. Story from the Book: The Housewife Rediscovering Her Identity Another story explored a highly educated woman who got absorbed into household responsibilities. She worked in her husband’s company but did not feel like she owned her life. Coaching helped her articulate something she had never said aloud: “I want freedom—not permission.” The story wasn’t about rebellion. It was about reclaiming agency—choosing work that reflected her identity, not her circumstances. This resonated deeply with the EI audience—especially those restarting careers after breaks, relocations, caregiving, or transitions. 5. Culture Shapes Confidence—But Coaching Shapes Clarity A question arose: “Does the culture of a company shape the personality of the person?” The coaches agreed: Yes. And not just companies—countries, families, teams, and even towns shape us. But the deeper insight was this: Coaching creates a space untouched by culture—a room where a person can examine themselves without outside noise. That is why leaders across the world—from CEOs to first-time managers—are turning to coaching. It is the only space where: nobody interrupts nobody evaluates nobody instructs Just presence. Just questions. Just clarity. 6. Why Some People Seek Coaching and Some Don’t An audience member asked: “People who need coaching the most don’t know they need it. What do we do?” The coaches smiled knowingly—because this is universal. They explained that meaningful change begins when: a person becomes aware of their blind spots someone they trust offers honest feedback the organisation creates a culture that encourages reflection One panelist shared a striking contrast: In some global companies—even CEOs regularly undergo coaching. In India, many CEOs nominate others for coaching but avoid it themselves. The takeaway was simple and powerful: Growth begins the day we accept that success does not make us complete—it only makes us visible. Conclusion: Coaching Is Not Advice—It Is Awareness This Episode taught us that: Coaching is not for “people with problems.” Coaching is for anyone seeking greater clarity, courage, and choice. The true change happens not in the session but between sessions— when awareness blends into behaviour. As we wrapped up, the coaches left us with one thought: “Every person is capable of change. What they need is a space safe enough to see themselves clearly.” This episode is dedicated to creating such spaces within our EI community. These experts offer their time for a nominal fee—just enough to ensure commitment, not cost. Contact me for details

Dr. Devyani Rozario Website I was doing a training program for a group of young professionals who had joined as trainees. One of the activities I gave them was to write on the whiteboard words to describe the type of Boss they were looking for. There were many answers but this one was intriguing “I would love a boss who is human”. From the discussions that followed with the group, this is what I made out as to what a HUMAN boss meant. What does HUMAN mean? Humble – the boss must be humble and make us feel part of the team. We respect people who are humble and not egoistic. Upbeat – the boss must be a happy and energetic person who is unfazed by the challenges at the workplace. When the boss is cheerful and hopeful, the mood of the team changes to optimism. Motivating -the boss must motivate the team. Appreciation from the boss for even little things matters a lot to keep the team motivated. It not only enhances performance but also keeps the team positive. Authentic-  the boss must be an authentic person. False promises and insincere appreciation get exposed in due course. Being a genuine person begets love and respect. Nurturing – a boss must grow many leaders. Nurturing talent, delegating to team members, and instilling confidence in team members go a long way to getting the best out of people. I was touched by the depth of the discussion and convinced that if Bosses come across as HUMAN, there would be no toxic work atmosphere. Every workplace would be “A great place to work” and this would translate to happy home life too! Are you ready to be a boss who is HUMAN?

Harish Dixit Senior Infrastructure Manager – APAC Linkedin You get a call. It’s your child, crying for help. Or your CEO, urgently asking for a money transfer. Your heart races. But wait, is this a real emergency or a digital ambush? Welcome to the world of audio cloning and deepfakes, where cybercriminals operate like rogue agents from a spy thriller. With just 30 seconds of your voice lifted from a WhatsApp note, a YouTube clip , or even a casual “hello” on a silent call, they can craft a vocal clone that sounds like you down to the last sigh. Using AI tools, scammers feed your voice into software that learns your tone, pitch, and speech patterns. In just 30 seconds, they can create a fake voice that sounds eerily like you. Add some video footage, and voilà, a deepfake video of you saying things you never said. These scams are getting smarter. In one case, a deepfake video of a CEO tricked an employee in Hong Kong, into transferring $25 million. That’s not just clever, it’s criminal genius. And it’s not just big companies. Families are being hit too. Scammers use cloned voices to fake emergencies, making parents believe their kids are in danger. Petty pickpockets have upgraded themselves into digital con artists with spy-grade tech. So how do you protect yourself? Think like a Spy. Set up a safe word . A secret code only your trusted circle knows. If someone calls in panic, ask for it. No code, no action. It’s your verbal fingerprint. Also, limit voice sharing online. Don’t trust unknown calls. Hang up and call back using a saved contact. And remember, even encrypted voice notes can be copied and reused. Stay sharp. In this digital jungle, your voice is gold, and scammers are mining.

Varun Goel Blogger, Website In the quiet suburbs of Moscow, where nature thrived in every corner, a boy named Milton lived in a cozy lake house with his parents, Denis and Maryam. Surrounded by lush trees and colorful gardens, life seemed perfect for young Milton. However, his world was about to change dramatically. Milton was a lively child, full of laughter and curiosity. At just twelve years old, he faced a life-altering challenge when he contracted polio. The joyful sounds that usually filled their home faded into an unsettling silence. A high fever overtook him, and his legs ached endlessly as his health sadly declined. Multiple doctors visited, but none could offer a solution to ease his suffering. Weeks passed, with hopes repeatedly dashed. Bitter medicine was now a part of his daily life, but no progress emerged. On a particularly grim evening, a doctor delivered shocking news to Milton's parents. "Your son won’t survive the night!" he said softly. Little did they know, Milton heard every word, his heart sinking under the weight of such despair. Despite that dark moment, the sound of his mother’s inconsolable tears filled his room. With every sob, Milton felt a surge of determination within him. “If I can just survive tonight, I could ease her pain,” he thought. This flicker of hope ignited a fierce resolve in him. That night, Milton decided he would fight against the darkness. Hours moved slowly, yet he held on tight to life, his will fueling his spirit. As the first beams of sunlight peeked into his room the next morning, he called out to his mother, "Mother, I am still alive!" His parents were overwhelmed with relief and happiness. From then on, Milton vowed to always live another day and thus pare his parents more suffering. Milton lived for 80 years leaving behind a series of books on the extraordinary capacity of human beings to overcome their limitations. THE END Discussion Points Milton's serves as a powerful reminder of our capacity to navigate through adversity. Milton showed that while daunting challenges are inevitable, our responses to them shape our journeys. His narrative continues to inspire us, urging them to find courage in the face of adversity. Milton's story is not simply about battling polio; it's a universal message of hope. He taught us there is always light, even in our darkest moments, and we all possess the ability to rewrite our stories. Through Milton's journey, we learn that survival is often just the beginning of a much deeper path filled with purpose, inspiration, and the incredible ability to overcome any limitations. STORY CREDIT: This story has been adapted from a story in the book "Maktub" by Paulo Coelho

Neelu Sunil Kalra yoga instructor, Yoga Institute, Mumbai LinkedIn Profile Website Summarized by Mr. Harinath In the ancient yogic tradition, the concept of Prana is fundamental to understanding life force energy. Prana, often referred to as the breath of life, is more than just air inhaled and exhaled ; it is the subtle energy that sustains all living beings. The human body, according to yogic anatomy , is governed by five vital energies called the Pancha Pranas . These energies influence different physiological and psychological functions , playing a crucial role in maintaining harmony within the body and mind. The Five Pranas: A Deeper Insight The Pancha Pranas— Prana, Apana, Samana, Udana, and Vyana —operate in different regions of the body, each with a specific role in regulating functions essential for survival and spiritual growth. Prana Vayu – The Energy of Inhalation Prana Vayu is the primary energy governing respiration and intake. Located in the chest , it controls the lungs and heart , facilitating the flow of oxygen and vitality. This inward-moving energy governs inspiration, not just in terms of breath but also in our ability to absorb knowledge, emotions, and sensory experiences. A balanced Prana Vayu enhances focus, awareness, and enthusiasm , while an imbalance can lead to anxiety and breathlessness. Apana Vayu – The Energy of Elimination Apana Vayu is responsible for downward-moving energy, governing excretion, menstruation, and reproductive functions. Located in the l ower abdomen and pelvic region , it plays a key role in detoxification—both physically and mentally. A well-regulated Apana Vayu aids in removing waste efficiently, whereas an imbalance can cause digestive disorders, fatigue, and emotional blockages. Samana Vayu – The Energy of Assimilation Samana Vayu, situated in the navel region, governs digestion and assimilation of nutrients. It acts as the harmonizing force between Prana and Apana Vayu, ensuring that nourishment is effectively absorbed and distributed throughout the body. Beyond digestion, it also governs mental assimilation—our ability to process thoughts and emotions. When Samana Vayu functions optimally, one experiences good digestion, strong willpower, and a balanced mind. Udana Vayu – The Energy of Expression Udana Vayu is located in the throat and head , governing speech, self-expression, and upward energy movement. It is responsible for vocal communication, confidence, and spiritual elevation. A well-balanced Udana Vayu supports clarity in speech, a positive mindset, and personal growth , while imbalances may lead to speech disorders, lack of motivation, or mental fog. Vyana Vayu – The Energy of Circulation Vyana Vayu is the expansive energy that permeates the entire body , regulating circulation, movement, and coordination. It ensures that oxygen, nutrients, and energy reach every cell. On a subtle level, Vyana Vayu facilitates the distribution of thoughts and emotions, enhancing one’s ability to stay connected to others and the environment. A strong Vyana Vayu contributes to physical endurance and mental resilience , while disturbances can cause circulation problems and a sense of disconnection. Integrating the Pancha Pranas in Daily Life Understanding and working with the Pancha Pranas can greatly enhance one’s well-being. Practicing yogic breathing techniques (Pranayama), mindful movement, and meditation helps balance these energies, promoting overall health. Deep Breathing Exercises: Conscious breathing techniques, such as Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing), can regulate Prana Vayu and calm the nervous system. Grounding Practices: Activities like yoga asanas, walking barefoot, and deep squatting support Apana Vayu, enhancing detoxification . Mindful Eating: Eating fresh, wholesome foods and maintaining proper meal timing aid Samana Vayu in digestion and assimilation . Chanting and Vocal Exercises: Singing, chanting, or even consciously speaking affirmations can strengthen Udana Vayu . Physical Activity: Engaging in regular movement, such as stretching and dynamic yoga, helps circulate Vyana Vayu effectively. The Yogic Perspective on Holistic Health Yogic philosophy views health as a balance of energy rather than just the absence of disease. When the Pancha Pranas function harmoniously, an individual experiences vitality, mental clarity, and emotional stability . Conversely, disturbances in these energies may manifest as physical ailments, stress, or psychological imbalances. By cultivating awareness of these vital energies and making conscious lifestyle choices, one can harness the power of Prana for greater well-being and spiritual growth. As we deepen our connection with these energies, we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of life, establishing balance, inner peace, and holistic health. References: Understanding Pancha Prana Prana Vayus: Yogic Anatomy

Himalika Yadav Interior Designer Linkedin Profile Many of us dedicate a lifetime to designing our ideal haven. When we talk about our ‘dream home’ , we’re not just thinking about walls and foundations - we’re envisioning the perfect ambience and aesthetic. Despite our best efforts, creating a perfect atmosphere in our homes can be elusive, leaving many feeling like something is amiss. Moreover, articulating our creative ideas to another individual can be a daunting task. That’s when an interior designer who intuitively understands your needs and clicks with you on every level, steps in, making the process seamless and enjoyable. Design Destiny: How to select the ideal interior designer Individual designers often bring unique benefits that are difficult for impersonal companies to match: 1. No cookie-cutter or template-based solutions that companies execute. 2. Uncommon , never-before-seen-style that only an individual designer can bring. 3. Fun, personalised design journey with a designer who mirrors your energy. 4. Design entrepreneurs are eager to expand their client base and cultivate a unique design identity. How to pick the right interior designer? 1. Probe their design thinking, including their thoughts on colour and spatial relationships. Ask specific questions such as: Can you walk me through your thought process when imagining spaces? How do you balance aesthetics and functionality in your designs? What key elements do you consider when creating a cohesive space? What role do colours, textures and patterns play in your design decisions? What are some common misconceptions about design styles, and how do you address them? How do you ensure your designs reflect the client’s personality and needs? You mentioned ‘minimalism'. Can you give an example of how you’d apply that principle to this project? How do you balance simplicity with visual interest in your designs? 2. Correlate their responses with their portfolio and, if feasible, verify through client references. 3. Provide your budget details and assess their portfolio for comparable scope and cost. Remember, your home’s uniqueness is its greatest luxury and your home should be a masterpiece, not a replica.

Harish Dixit Senior Infrastructure Manager – APAC Linkedin Staying Secure: Why vulnerability patching and updates matter in the Digital Age In our increasingly connected world, the simple act of clicking "Update" can be the difference between robust digital security and becoming an easy target for cybercriminals. Many of us are guilty of dismissing those persistent upgrade alerts, but beneath those annoying pop-ups lies a critical shield protecting our digital lives. The Hidden Dangers of ignoring updates Imagine your smartphone as a fortress. Each software update is like reinforcing the walls, adding new locks, and patching up potential entry points for intruders. When you ignore these updates, you're essentially leaving the castle gates wide open. Security Vulnerabilities: Your Digital weak spots The most critical reason to update your devices is security. Cyber criminals are constantly searching for vulnerabilities in software – think of them as digital lock pickers looking for the smallest crack in your defense. Each update comes with security patches that close these potential entry points. Whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, these patches protect you from, malware infections, ransomware attacks and data breaches. Performance and Functionality at risk Updates aren't just about security. They're also about keeping your device running smoothly. An outdated operating system can cause slow performance, App crashes and glitches and compatibility issues with new applications. Special Considerations for Vulnerable Users While digital security is important for everyone, older adults and children require extra care and attention.  Seniors  may be less familiar with technology and more  susceptible to scams,  making them prime targets for  cyber criminals . Similarly,  children  are at risk due to their  natural curiosity and lack of understanding about online dangers . Parents and caregivers should take proactive steps to protect these vulnerable groups by: Providing  ongoing education about digital safety Choosing  devices with simplified interfaces and built-in security features Regularly reviewing their devices and explaining the importance of  online safety Two-Factor Authentication: Your extra layer of protection While keeping your software updated is crucial,  two-factor authentication (2FA)  adds another critical layer of security. It's like having a second lock on your digital door. Even if someone discovers your password, they'll need a second form of verification – typically a code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app – to access your account. Best practices for Digital Securit y Enable automatic updates when possible. Don't ignore update notifications Set aside time periodically to check for and install updates Use two-factor authentication on important accounts Installing robust parental control and monitoring software The Bottom Line If  Hollywood celebrities  with access to top-tier security can get hacked, what makes you think you're immune? Cybercriminals don't discriminate – they look for the path of least resistance, and a vulnerable device is like an open invitation. Remember, cybersecurity is not about being invulnerable – it's about making yourself a harder target. Each update, each additional security layer, makes it that much more difficult for potential attackers to breach your digital defenses. Stay safe, stay updated.

Shalini Nair Chartered Accountant We’ve all experienced the excitement of watching a horror/thriller movie in a theatre. The goosebumps you feel in the anticipation of the next jump scare are just not the same as when watching at home. Your heart races, your palms are cold and clammy, and your skin crawls; everything just seems scarier when watching it on the big screen. But have you wondered if this thrill is caused by the visuals and sound effects alone? Is there some hidden factor which movie makers use to enhance the cinematic experience? Infrasound is the category of sounds which are below the threshold of human hearing but can be felt as vibrations in the human body. These sound waves, even though inaudible, can create physical reactions such as anxiety, fear, and nausea . Some movies, particularly horror movies, use these to create an immersive experience for the audience. Science behind the sound Before delving into the effects of these sounds, it's important to understand more about the human auditory system. Human beings perceive sounds with pitch, but pitch is quantified in frequency. The higher the frequency at which the sound waves oscillate, the higher the pitch. The range for audible sounds for humans falls between 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz . Any sound below 20 Hz is categorized as Infra sounds. Some of the examples of Infrasound found in nature are the sound of very large waves, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc. Even certain animals like elephants can perceive and communicate via infrasound. There is a scientific hypothesis that the ability to perceive infrasound helps animals presage natural calamities. Movie magic In movies such as A Quiet Place, The Conjuring 2 or even the latest Malayalam movie Manjummel Boys , producers have admitted using infrasound to create worry and fear while watching the movie. To produce infrasonic sound in a theater environment, specialized subwoofers are used that are designed to accurately produce low-frequency sounds. These subwoofers are typically much larger than regular speakers. These sounds, when passing through the human body, create vibrations, which in turn increases the cortisol level in the body. Cortisol is the hormone the body releases under stress, which causes physiological and psychological changes such as heart racing, goosebumps, anxiety and fright. Other applications Interestingly, infra sounds have also been linked with paranormal activities. Various studies have interpreted subsonic sound waves in areas which are generally considered haunted. Some countries even use acoustic devices for riot control and crowd management. Infrasound is slowly creeping into our everyday lives without making a sound. From high tech surround sound systems to cinema Dolby systems, sonic weapons to international nuclear monitoring system. Next time when you feel creeped out or scared watching movies, it may not be eerie piano music, hushed footsteps, or ticking clocks. It might just be the sound you cannot hear.

Harinath Strategy & Growth – Reliance Retail; EI Outlook Editor Linkedin Profile "When we stop judging ourselves, we begin to see clearly." A Gathering Beyond a Book The idea for this book club meet began weeks before the discussion in August'25. All interested member of the EI Society received a copy of The Power of Professional Coaching — a book of twenty coaching stories written by experienced coaches from across industries. On the announced day, a small but eager group assembled — four accomplished coaches and a motivated audience, each one curious about what professional coaching really means. The conversation was not about careers or titles; it was about clarity . What unfolded that evening became a reflection on how we lead, listen, and learn. 1. Self-Awareness — The Foundation of Growth The first narrator opened with a striking insight: “If coaching offers just one thing, it’s self-awareness — and that changes everything.” In the story of Stephen , a senior professional, this awareness became the turning point. For years, he had worked in an environment that measured him by performance, not perspective. Through coaching, Stephen realised that he had rarely paused to evaluate how he was showing up. The coach, being neutral, created a safe space — no competition, no hierarchy, no pretence. “In a coaching conversation,” the narrator explained, “you don’t need to guard your weaknesses. That’s where honesty begins.” Many in the room nodded — perhaps recognising how few of us ever get such conversations at work. 2. Freedom — What Does It Really Mean? The next story, The Road Less Travelled , turned into a deeper reflection on freedom. Philippa, a successful professional, felt trapped by responsibility. Her role was prestigious, but her inner voice was silent. “Every Independence Day,” the narrator said, “we speak of freedom — but are we really free today?” Philippa’s breakthrough came when she realised she was dispensable . Once she stopped defining herself through the job, she rediscovered the freedom to choose. Freedom, the narrator explained, is not rebellion or resistance. It is the courage to break self-imposed limits and follow what your core truly desires. Learning Cue for Readers: Freedom in professional life isn’t about leaving a job — it’s about not being imprisoned by it. 3. The Balance Dilemma The third case, Working with a Dilemma , was about balance. The coachee, a gentle leader, found it hard to be assertive. He equated being firm with being harsh. Through coaching, he learned that leadership balance means knowing when to be patient and when to be direct. Ironically, when he began communicating more firmly, his relationships improved — not weakened. “People,” the narrator observed, “often appreciate clarity more than comfort.” That simple truth lingered: most of us are afraid of being disliked, when in reality, people value us more when we are authentic. 4. Transitions — The Challenge of Moving The next story, The World is Your Oyster , dealt with transition — moving from India to Singapore. It wasn’t just a shift in geography, but in mindset. The narrator explained that transition coaching is about challenging assumptions . The coachee carried expectations shaped by culture — how teams communicate, how leaders express authority, how success is celebrated. Coaching helped him stay open, observe without judgement, and adapt with humility. Learning Cue for Readers: Every transition — job, role, or place — is an opportunity to test our flexibility. Coaching reminds us that adaptation isn’t losing identity; it’s expanding it. 5. Coaching as a Cultural Shift In the open dialogue that followed, the audience raised a practical question: “How do we handle people who resist feedback or need to be pushed?” The coaches smiled knowingly. One said, “That depends on the company culture. Some workplaces encourage agency; others reward compliance. But if you consistently reinforce initiative, people learn to act instead of wait.” We discussed how agency — the ability to take ownership — is a core expectation in healthy organisations. In coaching terms, that means helping individuals take responsibility for their own growth, rather than waiting for direction. The conversation also touched on 360° feedback . “Feedback,” one coach remarked, “loses meaning when it’s given to please.” True feedback, they agreed, must be honest, specific, and safe — otherwise it becomes a ritual, not a reflection. What the Room Realised That Day By the end of the session, the room had turned quiet — not out of fatigue, but thoughtfulness. Everyone carried something away: That awareness is the first step to change. That freedom is internal, not circumstantial. That balance requires courage. That transitions test humility. And that feedback, when honest, can transform relationships. Coaching, we realised, is not about answers — it’s about questions that make you pause, reflect, and move forward with awareness. Ask Yourself: What would change in your work or life if you had a conversation without fear of judgement? Conclusion — The Silent Teacher That day, we didn’t just discuss a book; we experienced its essence. Professional coaching, in its truest form, is a dialogue with oneself — guided by someone who listens without fixing. In a world obsessed with outcomes, coaching brings us back to insight . Help is just a conversation away. These experts offer their time for a nominal fee—just enough to ensure commitment, not cost. Contact me for details