Tried this snow man but started to shiver and ran inside on day one
Finally managed to make another snow man the next day ,and cheered myself by taking a picture with him, before he melted away!!!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy ThanksGiving
I am amazed to find this concept of thanks giving celebrated Nation wide in America today. What an inspirational day it is ? How many of us pause for a moment in our lives to look back and thank all the people who brought in a change in our lives? I usually do not believe in celebrating Friendship day, Valentines day, Fathers day and other concepts Archies and other marketers brought in to India in the recent past. I am wondering why the Thanks Giving day had not made popular so far? Is or is not thanks giving a continuous process in our lives. Anyway, what ever may be the argument, I today, had a chance to recall to myself, about all the people who made that small difference to me. I do not want to list them here, and in the process miss someone inadvertently and regret later.
I thank God for this beautiful life, a life well balanced with ups and downs, and for making the person I am. Counting my blessings and thanking god, for the troubles had shown my courage, pain and suffering had increased my inner strength, enduring badness had shown me righteousness, good things and good people inspired me and thanks to all those people who have enriched my experiences and knowledge, wisdom and truth, tranquility and inner peace, friendship and beautiful relationships, a purpose and vision in life to go forward.
Thank You - One word that my english teacher taught me to use as much as you can and when ever necessary, for appreciation strengthens people's relationships and Gratitude is the rightful way to touch a person's soul. Thank you for reading this too!
I thank God for this beautiful life, a life well balanced with ups and downs, and for making the person I am. Counting my blessings and thanking god, for the troubles had shown my courage, pain and suffering had increased my inner strength, enduring badness had shown me righteousness, good things and good people inspired me and thanks to all those people who have enriched my experiences and knowledge, wisdom and truth, tranquility and inner peace, friendship and beautiful relationships, a purpose and vision in life to go forward.
Thank You - One word that my english teacher taught me to use as much as you can and when ever necessary, for appreciation strengthens people's relationships and Gratitude is the rightful way to touch a person's soul. Thank you for reading this too!
Why Mumbai and Why Taj? Time for Homeland Security to be strong
In the wake of the ongoing financial crisis across the globe, India is able to keep proclaiming that we had strong fundamentals, and our banking and financial business houses are stable irrespective of the ripple effect of the economy. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, portrayed a brave picture in spite of the dynamics at Dallal Street. A country whose GDP is steadily increasing and is also able to bring down the inflation to single digit in the recent past, a country which stood tall sending Chandrayan mission to Moon, and who vibrantly displayed the nuclear strength and wealth of our trio forces including army, navy and air force is causing a concern to our neighbours and world nations. India's intellectual brilliance and dependency of the world nations on Indian human potential is one way making it a super power quickly. All we now need are the strong politicians who brings in the required visibility for India, why we should not be called a developed Nation?
Less than a week after Ambika Soni, the Tourism Minister, invited the world to visit India, a hub of spiritual enlightenment and harmonious destination for the troubled world, a hit on the Taj Hotel is quick blow on our tourisim aspirations. In the couple of times, I had the opportunity I had to visit Taj in Mumbai, I found the place is the best destination for foreign tourist, businessmen and industrialists and also for politicians and scientists. Very elegant and poised Taj welcomed guests abroad to make them feel at home. Staying in Fariyaz in Colaba, I took few beautiful walks across the marine drive shore line watching the elegance of the place and the tourist attraction with British chariots entertaining guests.
The process of recovery is long and painful after the terror attacks. It is not easy as said to bring back normalcy. It takes lot more efforts to attract tourists and welcome people, if the finest of hotels are themselves not safe for stay, where else could the world go?. Delhi attacks around Diwali, Goa's ongoing sham of rapes and murders, burning of churches in Orissa, Kerala and Karnataka effecting the sentiments of people, Gujarat riots, Hyderbad attacks, Lucknow and Varanasi temple blasts, and now the Mumbai attacks, all seems to be in a pattern that is aimed to curtail the growth of a Nation. One side Nature is creating havoc with Bihar and Orissa floods and the other side this man-made intimidation is costing us more.
Time to put an end to this unwanted human suffering, create a safe place to live, raise the banners of peace high, and take serious measures aiming at National Security. No concessions to be made to combat terrorism and punish those involved seriously to put an end to this worst game.
Less than a week after Ambika Soni, the Tourism Minister, invited the world to visit India, a hub of spiritual enlightenment and harmonious destination for the troubled world, a hit on the Taj Hotel is quick blow on our tourisim aspirations. In the couple of times, I had the opportunity I had to visit Taj in Mumbai, I found the place is the best destination for foreign tourist, businessmen and industrialists and also for politicians and scientists. Very elegant and poised Taj welcomed guests abroad to make them feel at home. Staying in Fariyaz in Colaba, I took few beautiful walks across the marine drive shore line watching the elegance of the place and the tourist attraction with British chariots entertaining guests.
The process of recovery is long and painful after the terror attacks. It is not easy as said to bring back normalcy. It takes lot more efforts to attract tourists and welcome people, if the finest of hotels are themselves not safe for stay, where else could the world go?. Delhi attacks around Diwali, Goa's ongoing sham of rapes and murders, burning of churches in Orissa, Kerala and Karnataka effecting the sentiments of people, Gujarat riots, Hyderbad attacks, Lucknow and Varanasi temple blasts, and now the Mumbai attacks, all seems to be in a pattern that is aimed to curtail the growth of a Nation. One side Nature is creating havoc with Bihar and Orissa floods and the other side this man-made intimidation is costing us more.
Time to put an end to this unwanted human suffering, create a safe place to live, raise the banners of peace high, and take serious measures aiming at National Security. No concessions to be made to combat terrorism and punish those involved seriously to put an end to this worst game.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Not Again! Stop Killing Innocent People
It gives a deep insecure feeling, seeing people bleeding and dying in Mumbai. The last thing that could be attacked are hospitals, and it's a time to stop the terror. Railway stations, hotels, tourist places, hospitals, shopping areas, temples, trains, buses, and the list goes on n on of all the terror strikes happening in India. Are our cities so vulnerable to terror? This cannot happen without local support and it is a shame to note that our intelligence agencies could do nothing as the country is bleeding one city after the other.
Hundreds of lives thorn into pieces, eighty people dead, ongoing encounter and people held hostage. Its heart- breaking to see the wailing people and their families, to see the injured and dead. Taj stands tall in front of the Arabian Sea retaining the glory of the best hotel in Mumbai. Colaba is a posh southern area where you can see happy tourists riding the horse chariots and taking the boat rides at Gateway of India. All these places are now under terror, pain, and fear. Its time that strict security measures are taken to protect the innocent people. Be it in what ever form of terrorism, this has to stop and stop now.
Government and people should work together to eradicate this contagious terror that is threatening the National Security. If there is something that we can learn from the western world, instead of picking the practices of celebrating valentines day and Halloweens, we should look into the way people handle distress calls, and the importance given to homeland security. Have we ever thought about it, do we have strict visa regulations, do our airports guarded against importing terror, are our borders safe and secure, is our internal police and intelligence strong enough to identify issues before they happen? Are our ministers capable to handle security issues, than to come on live TV and show sympathy every time an adversity happens and talking all parrot talk about compensation, requesting calm, and proclaiming that we condemn this? Who are funding this atrocities and what is the motive behind every blast? There are major hidden questions that need to be answered and uproot the last roots of terror in India, or else, devastating families and deepened scars of insecurity and fear will remain breaking the peace of our homeland.
Hundreds of lives thorn into pieces, eighty people dead, ongoing encounter and people held hostage. Its heart- breaking to see the wailing people and their families, to see the injured and dead. Taj stands tall in front of the Arabian Sea retaining the glory of the best hotel in Mumbai. Colaba is a posh southern area where you can see happy tourists riding the horse chariots and taking the boat rides at Gateway of India. All these places are now under terror, pain, and fear. Its time that strict security measures are taken to protect the innocent people. Be it in what ever form of terrorism, this has to stop and stop now.
Government and people should work together to eradicate this contagious terror that is threatening the National Security. If there is something that we can learn from the western world, instead of picking the practices of celebrating valentines day and Halloweens, we should look into the way people handle distress calls, and the importance given to homeland security. Have we ever thought about it, do we have strict visa regulations, do our airports guarded against importing terror, are our borders safe and secure, is our internal police and intelligence strong enough to identify issues before they happen? Are our ministers capable to handle security issues, than to come on live TV and show sympathy every time an adversity happens and talking all parrot talk about compensation, requesting calm, and proclaiming that we condemn this? Who are funding this atrocities and what is the motive behind every blast? There are major hidden questions that need to be answered and uproot the last roots of terror in India, or else, devastating families and deepened scars of insecurity and fear will remain breaking the peace of our homeland.
Missing the first man in my life!
There could be no better day to recall a person who cherished in my dreams, who nurtured me as a kid, who loved me more than any one else could, and dreamt all my dreams even before me. November 26th happens to be one such day, that the recollection of those wonderful days enrich my day and re-vibrate my energies to the fact that I have to fulfill some one's visions for me. The best I could do, is to make his dreams come true. His pride in me to multiply where ever he is. His blessings to shower upon like ever and his spirit guiding me always.
A Man with Smile. That's how I remember this great man who happens to be the first and for the most part of my childhood, the only man whom I knew. He taught me my first words, walked with me my first steps, pampered me with first toys and gifted me first books. He taught me that reading improves your knowledge, your vocabulary, your communication skills and also your creativity. His love was so simple and vast that I haven't seen him hurting anyone in life. A man of passions, love for his family, devotion to god, work is worship and a great neighbour and friend. Even after 16 years that he disappeared into the god's kingdom, he is still alive in thoughts and memories of not just his family, but his friends and neighbours. No wonder, we are lucky. I am proud that he happened to me in life as my great DAD!!! Happy Birthday Daddy, though I know we don't have you today amidst us, you are in our thoughts and our focus in life towards goodness and growth. The smallest tribute we can pay for you would be to bring in smiles of people around us, be sincere in all our work, dream big and work towards it and keep up the basic values of life that you enriched in us. Love you Nana!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Flast Fliers in Life
Few people stay in your life all the time, they stand beside you in thick and thin, share your everyday activity, keep knowing every aspect of your life, and they just go on. Few people come at some part of your life, make a huge impact on your thinking, feelings, activities and go off. People who are there always may or may not influence you to the extent than these Flash Fliers in life. Its the difference of a usual sea or an occasional tsunami.
One person pulled me to walking everyday for half hour, saying why the hell am I spending all my time on the laptop! We walked miles and miles, sharing the sun, frenzy weather, fearful winds, snow showers and with all this our thoughts. We travelled back to three decades, memories that age more than my own age, and became an ardent listener always. The other person spent most of the weekends with me, With all their permissions, I would like to write about these two special people I came across in my recent past.
Just a fortnight before the well planned travel to USA, 35 years back, a 36 year old woman with 4 children aged between 5 and 10, faced one of the most difficult adversity. The sudden death of her husband. All the relatives who eagerly awaited for the family suddenly disappeared. Friends kept a distance. But her convictions were strong and she made the bold decision to still go ahead with the travel. This time, she had to handle it all herself. 7$ per person was what was allowed to be carried and lot more shocks awaited her in a cold country. Jersey City welcomed her with a cold shoulder, with absolutely no people to support or guide. Though born in a wealthy business family, she had to restart everything afresh. Did different jobs that she did not even want to recall to feed her children, working night shifts, making food for neighbours in the morning and baby sitting forgoing her few hours of sleep during day. In all her 30 plus years of stay in US, she never owned a vehicle. I was shocked to know that for a month we could not manage with out a car here. Not a single time, she went to a restaurant nor bought shoes costing more than $10.
As the roads took new turns in life, there emerged four success stories. One daughter as a senior vice president in a leading bank, other two daughters running their own pharmacy' s and medical aid centres, and her son who is a leading Auditor and an upcoming solicitor. Today when her family meets at her apartment in Jersey, she is embarrassed with 3 BMWs and couple of Ferrari's coming down at her parking lot, envying her neighbours. Summer comes, she is again busy making her dhoklas, papads, and roti's this time not for 4 but 7 of her grand children who eagerly awaits her in every summer. One way, I felt that I found my mom in Michigan.
I saw a pain in her eyes when I went to tell her that I am leaving. May be she found someone to share after many years, few moments to say, Ho, Ya and walk ahead with smiles. Yes, looks like I rekindled her emotions, and am writing this here, only to inspire people like me, that no adversity is difficult not to cross. All it needs is a strong conviction, determination, will power, enormous amount of self less love and sacrifice, hard work and perseverance. As she set back to Jersey city, from Pontiac for Thanksgiving this week, I know she is a flash flier in my life. I may not see her again but her spirit and determination had definitely made an influence on me! People who make a difference!
One person pulled me to walking everyday for half hour, saying why the hell am I spending all my time on the laptop! We walked miles and miles, sharing the sun, frenzy weather, fearful winds, snow showers and with all this our thoughts. We travelled back to three decades, memories that age more than my own age, and became an ardent listener always. The other person spent most of the weekends with me, With all their permissions, I would like to write about these two special people I came across in my recent past.
Just a fortnight before the well planned travel to USA, 35 years back, a 36 year old woman with 4 children aged between 5 and 10, faced one of the most difficult adversity. The sudden death of her husband. All the relatives who eagerly awaited for the family suddenly disappeared. Friends kept a distance. But her convictions were strong and she made the bold decision to still go ahead with the travel. This time, she had to handle it all herself. 7$ per person was what was allowed to be carried and lot more shocks awaited her in a cold country. Jersey City welcomed her with a cold shoulder, with absolutely no people to support or guide. Though born in a wealthy business family, she had to restart everything afresh. Did different jobs that she did not even want to recall to feed her children, working night shifts, making food for neighbours in the morning and baby sitting forgoing her few hours of sleep during day. In all her 30 plus years of stay in US, she never owned a vehicle. I was shocked to know that for a month we could not manage with out a car here. Not a single time, she went to a restaurant nor bought shoes costing more than $10.
As the roads took new turns in life, there emerged four success stories. One daughter as a senior vice president in a leading bank, other two daughters running their own pharmacy' s and medical aid centres, and her son who is a leading Auditor and an upcoming solicitor. Today when her family meets at her apartment in Jersey, she is embarrassed with 3 BMWs and couple of Ferrari's coming down at her parking lot, envying her neighbours. Summer comes, she is again busy making her dhoklas, papads, and roti's this time not for 4 but 7 of her grand children who eagerly awaits her in every summer. One way, I felt that I found my mom in Michigan.
I saw a pain in her eyes when I went to tell her that I am leaving. May be she found someone to share after many years, few moments to say, Ho, Ya and walk ahead with smiles. Yes, looks like I rekindled her emotions, and am writing this here, only to inspire people like me, that no adversity is difficult not to cross. All it needs is a strong conviction, determination, will power, enormous amount of self less love and sacrifice, hard work and perseverance. As she set back to Jersey city, from Pontiac for Thanksgiving this week, I know she is a flash flier in my life. I may not see her again but her spirit and determination had definitely made an influence on me! People who make a difference!
The Faith Family
Its just few months now that I am associated with a group of people following a different religious path of mine, but still who accepted me with open arms of warmth and friendship. Religion to me is a way of living and is not a way of discrimination, after being born and educated in a different religions, to me, all faiths are like different roads to reach the final destination. A realisation of a supreme power. A belief of an power that is beyond man. A destination that is at the end of our life's journey.
Less did I ever thought that I would leave behind people who would cherish my memories with them in the past many months in USA, who acknowledged that I made a difference in their lives and in a way who told me that I inspired them. I am embarrassed. When a family of 60+ people stood yesterday in prayer thanking God that they had a chance to meet me, and putting a special prayer that I should have travel mercies and all success mercies in future, I felt a moment back in the glory of my Alma mater. When people hugged me with wishes that I come back, with a thought that I would keep in touch, and with a happiness of having met me and had a chance to be my friends, I had no words. End of the day, we all met and departed as Indians in America. I now realised that I am not only going to carry back home, a project success, but also the baggage's of love that these people filled in my life. One thing I realised, no matter where you are, its your attitude that makes you get the right people in life, and I am happy I did manage to find so many hearts wishing me all the best as I travel back home..
Less did I ever thought that I would leave behind people who would cherish my memories with them in the past many months in USA, who acknowledged that I made a difference in their lives and in a way who told me that I inspired them. I am embarrassed. When a family of 60+ people stood yesterday in prayer thanking God that they had a chance to meet me, and putting a special prayer that I should have travel mercies and all success mercies in future, I felt a moment back in the glory of my Alma mater. When people hugged me with wishes that I come back, with a thought that I would keep in touch, and with a happiness of having met me and had a chance to be my friends, I had no words. End of the day, we all met and departed as Indians in America. I now realised that I am not only going to carry back home, a project success, but also the baggage's of love that these people filled in my life. One thing I realised, no matter where you are, its your attitude that makes you get the right people in life, and I am happy I did manage to find so many hearts wishing me all the best as I travel back home..
Saturday, November 22, 2008
The Fun in Sand - Sauguatek Dune Rides
The songs of the deserts are sometimes heard in the roaring silence of the winds and the magnificence of the rides down the sands towards the freezing lakes
The Magic of Netherlands in midst of Michigan Holland!!!
Pictures speak volumes than words.
Amazing wonders with colors of Nature
Red means vibrancy and courage..Radianace
May 2008-Tulip Festival, Holland, Michigan USA
Amazing wonders with colors of Nature
Red means vibrancy and courage..RadianaceBeauty of nature lies in a man's vision
Another picture of nature that makes you wonder, the vibrancy of colors
May 2008-Tulip Festival, Holland, Michigan USA
Excellence
Excellence! You are excellent. As I kept hearing this word many times this year than never before, I was wondering what it actually means. What makes some one excellent or something of excellence? Is there a boundary on which an excellence is decided? Is there a way that people perceive a thing and rate it as excellent? There are numerous questions that flooded my thoughts.
Excellence is Exceeding Expectations.
Yes, Excellence is doing more than what is expected in a positive way, towards betterment and growth.... I expect 1000 bags of rice to be produced this year in my farm, but I manage to produce 1500 bags exceeding expectations...that's my excellence.
Excellence is a continuous process.
Once you are excellent, it becomes your standard, and you have no choice than to make it a continuous process. In my above example, now my standard and expectation will be 1500 bags of produce... and I don't have a choice to come down the same..means I have now set a new example of myself.
Excellence is a journey not a destination
If you are excellent and forget being excellent always, you would soon become a history, and get dissolved in the pages of time. New ways and means to be discovered to keep this process is a continuous journey. Never a destination
Excellence is an ongoing challenge.
The challenge is being a competition to yourself and to others. You should sharpen your axe from time to time to keep in pace with the changes around you. Identifying the strengths of your competitors and enabling yourself to equip to win over them makes you a tough person.
Excellence is a combination of all virtues
Hard work, Perseverance, Innovation, Approachability, Inter-Personal skills, Communication, Visibility, Perfection in work, deliverable on time, commitments to customers honoured, balancing your personal and professional lives, constructive education, team work, motivating others, continuous learning process, contribution to society, aspiring for growth and daring to dream new things and work towards it, entertaining your hobbies and refreshing yourself to new challenges and hold upon your loyalty, sincerity, and integrity to the organization and yourself, providing adequate attention to your family and friends, taking time off to be on your own, and above all Faith and Faith in your possibilities and the sustain supreme power beyond us, makes us Excellent!!! Yes , Par Excellence!!!
Excellence is Exceeding Expectations.
Yes, Excellence is doing more than what is expected in a positive way, towards betterment and growth.... I expect 1000 bags of rice to be produced this year in my farm, but I manage to produce 1500 bags exceeding expectations...that's my excellence.
Excellence is a continuous process.
Once you are excellent, it becomes your standard, and you have no choice than to make it a continuous process. In my above example, now my standard and expectation will be 1500 bags of produce... and I don't have a choice to come down the same..means I have now set a new example of myself.
Excellence is a journey not a destination
If you are excellent and forget being excellent always, you would soon become a history, and get dissolved in the pages of time. New ways and means to be discovered to keep this process is a continuous journey. Never a destination
Excellence is an ongoing challenge.
The challenge is being a competition to yourself and to others. You should sharpen your axe from time to time to keep in pace with the changes around you. Identifying the strengths of your competitors and enabling yourself to equip to win over them makes you a tough person.
Excellence is a combination of all virtues
Hard work, Perseverance, Innovation, Approachability, Inter-Personal skills, Communication, Visibility, Perfection in work, deliverable on time, commitments to customers honoured, balancing your personal and professional lives, constructive education, team work, motivating others, continuous learning process, contribution to society, aspiring for growth and daring to dream new things and work towards it, entertaining your hobbies and refreshing yourself to new challenges and hold upon your loyalty, sincerity, and integrity to the organization and yourself, providing adequate attention to your family and friends, taking time off to be on your own, and above all Faith and Faith in your possibilities and the sustain supreme power beyond us, makes us Excellent!!! Yes , Par Excellence!!!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Change in Business Models is the only solution?
The change in the business model is essential for the large corporates that are struggling for existence. There has to be significant changes in the way of cost-effective operations that would provide cost effective business solutions as well. End of one tunnel may be a beginning of a better road ahead. This positive tendency has to first re-vibrate in the people to create opportunities instead of creating a pessimistic mind set of losing. Obstacles are those frightful things that hinder our growth when we lose sight of our goals. Opportunities are those new avenues that open up when the obstacles are tackled with affirmation. It is quite essential for creating a new environment and a people's perception that would make new opportunities possible. Beginning of all things is small... so with the big obstacles, we should not fail to look at those small new beginnings that may in future emerge as successful business opportunities. This is nothing but a game of treasure hunt.. and its time for the people to look for the first clue to move forward!!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
What makes you a good leader?
Quite often, I wonder why one manager is different from the other. Why one leader is different from the other.. Why one politician is different from the other... What ever may be the differences in the ways of handling things, there are quite a very proven concepts that make the best of leaders in the world. Right from a class leader, a school pupil leader, a district collector, a state governor, a minister, or a National leader, or a manager, regional head, country head or global head, there are few things that go with each of the leaders!
1. Leaders are born, they are not made! It is an innate quality that exemplifies a person's approach to circumstances and people, that make them leaders.
2. People who can set examples. Remember someone is watching you always, and when these some one's become multiple and people follow you, you become a leader
3. Some one to look upon- When there is a roadblock, and people need guidance, solace, results and revised paths, and if you could lead them to newer dimensions, you become a choice to be a leader, not by yourself, but by others.
4. Delegation of authority- It is important that you trust your subordinates, and provide them support to grow. As each one them takes one step of growth, you grow by the number of people who grows in your team. But remember, responsibility to be assigned with required authority for a job to be executed perfectly
5. Team Work- Its always WE and never "me". Especially when you are leader, you set an example..one classic theory is that a leader will stand in front when bullets are fired and stand behind the team while lifting the trophies. Dr Kalam, talks about this at length about Vikram Sarabai and his leadership in his Ignited Minds
6. Exceeding Expectations- Once you set a standard, a standard far above everyone in a group, it becomes a leader's standard and this is when you exceeds general expectations. A leader is supposed to keep up these expectations always.
7. Do not preach, but practice- Leaders who just do what they are expected are highly regarded, and mostly people follow for what they do than for what they say. When what is said and what is done is in sync, they become the most respected leaders.
8. Integrity and Respect - Sincerity, hard work, dedication,devotion to work assigned, commitment, timeliness, quality and perfection in work, transparency, appreciation and approachability are all closely watched by the people in the groups and a leader should be a role model. People automatically starts giving you more respect and take your word as final. Respect is never commanded, its given!
You want to be proven leader, see how many of the above traits you possess. Am sure all leaders will have most of these qualities in-built in them.
1. Leaders are born, they are not made! It is an innate quality that exemplifies a person's approach to circumstances and people, that make them leaders.
2. People who can set examples. Remember someone is watching you always, and when these some one's become multiple and people follow you, you become a leader
3. Some one to look upon- When there is a roadblock, and people need guidance, solace, results and revised paths, and if you could lead them to newer dimensions, you become a choice to be a leader, not by yourself, but by others.
4. Delegation of authority- It is important that you trust your subordinates, and provide them support to grow. As each one them takes one step of growth, you grow by the number of people who grows in your team. But remember, responsibility to be assigned with required authority for a job to be executed perfectly
5. Team Work- Its always WE and never "me". Especially when you are leader, you set an example..one classic theory is that a leader will stand in front when bullets are fired and stand behind the team while lifting the trophies. Dr Kalam, talks about this at length about Vikram Sarabai and his leadership in his Ignited Minds
6. Exceeding Expectations- Once you set a standard, a standard far above everyone in a group, it becomes a leader's standard and this is when you exceeds general expectations. A leader is supposed to keep up these expectations always.
7. Do not preach, but practice- Leaders who just do what they are expected are highly regarded, and mostly people follow for what they do than for what they say. When what is said and what is done is in sync, they become the most respected leaders.
8. Integrity and Respect - Sincerity, hard work, dedication,devotion to work assigned, commitment, timeliness, quality and perfection in work, transparency, appreciation and approachability are all closely watched by the people in the groups and a leader should be a role model. People automatically starts giving you more respect and take your word as final. Respect is never commanded, its given!
You want to be proven leader, see how many of the above traits you possess. Am sure all leaders will have most of these qualities in-built in them.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Be Indian - BUY Indian
"Be Indian- Buy Indian" - Did we not hear this as children? I always remember the image of Gandhiji with the wheel, working on the spinning of cotton yarn. Yes, may be its now time- after 60 years of India's independence to sing the song of " Made in India"
Made in India....Yes, I am right when I proclaim this. I am a patriot to my nation, no doubt. But still, there is an analyst and economist behind this statement. The need of the hour:
1. Create jobs and more jobs in India
2. Oil the wheels of Indian Industry
3. Creating a complete self-reliance on the manufacturing sectors.
4. Conservation and preservation of India's rich natural resources
5. Fullest utilization of the knowledge and talent of highly educated.
6. Prevention of erosion of India's rich forest reserves
7. Creating economic upheaval of rural India with micro-financing
8. Take all steps to prevent shortage of food grains and agricultural produce.
9. Bringing in the wind energy, solar energy and thermal energy efficiency
10. Lessen the dependence on the global markets for our industry inputs
11. Utilisation of indigenous products and raw materials for our plants
12. Promote Indian Products with a conscious effort. This is definitely a strong lesson that we need to learn from the global economic down-turn.
13. Save our hard earned freedom by bringing in an economic independence and a real socialistic and sovereign republic
Let me go in detail in my next post on the " Made in India" branding...the most essential crusade of the century that need to begin right away....encourage yourself, your children, friends, families and colleagues to follow this branding...doing a little in a way which is possible to you.... for every drop counts in a ocean...and lets make a oceanic difference in the Indian Economy!!! Jai Hind!
Made in India....Yes, I am right when I proclaim this. I am a patriot to my nation, no doubt. But still, there is an analyst and economist behind this statement. The need of the hour:
1. Create jobs and more jobs in India
2. Oil the wheels of Indian Industry
3. Creating a complete self-reliance on the manufacturing sectors.
4. Conservation and preservation of India's rich natural resources
5. Fullest utilization of the knowledge and talent of highly educated.
6. Prevention of erosion of India's rich forest reserves
7. Creating economic upheaval of rural India with micro-financing
8. Take all steps to prevent shortage of food grains and agricultural produce.
9. Bringing in the wind energy, solar energy and thermal energy efficiency
10. Lessen the dependence on the global markets for our industry inputs
11. Utilisation of indigenous products and raw materials for our plants
12. Promote Indian Products with a conscious effort. This is definitely a strong lesson that we need to learn from the global economic down-turn.
13. Save our hard earned freedom by bringing in an economic independence and a real socialistic and sovereign republic
Let me go in detail in my next post on the " Made in India" branding...the most essential crusade of the century that need to begin right away....encourage yourself, your children, friends, families and colleagues to follow this branding...doing a little in a way which is possible to you.... for every drop counts in a ocean...and lets make a oceanic difference in the Indian Economy!!! Jai Hind!
Business Processes Re- Engineering
Its now time for the world companies to look into re-structuring...which means the entire existing business processes need to be re-engineered to meet the current demands of the global economy. What does it mean? It is a strategical change in the way the things were perceived, interpreted and executed. Which means that right from the planning till the execution of the new processes, everything had to be revisited. Just like the way, people looked at the burning houses in California but the day next, ensured to re look into what best can be done to move forward. The same synthesis applies to business economics also.
Move forward! Yes, the biggest questions lies behind on what need to be changed, how to be changed, and what is the cost and time involved and a real readiness for the change from the conservative way of approach in the business. The Auto Industry need to look into more fuel efficient, economic and reliable vehicles on road. The manufacturing plants need to revamp with newer technologies which would be one time investment and time for change in tools and machinery. The travel industry need to look into more economic and viable solutions than aiming for the cosy infrastructure and advertising. The Financing industry need to start picking up lessons from the past and look into more conservative ways of financing that proved fatal and also look into the Asian financing system that much more stronger on fundamentals. The Insurance sector need to look into what the terms and conditions stated can be redefined. The health sector need to reestablish with tie up with insurance companies and corporates to bring in a more down to earth health packages and solutions to reach the common man. The Pharmaceutical industry need to get more organised with clubbing of solutions instead of we having 10 different medicines for simple headache, the medical fraternity can work towards simpled single solution that is economical, viable and effort worthy.. the fashion and film industry should bring in a change in the kind of amount that is spent on unnecessary things and can divert towards social causes. Infact the political scenario of few countries need to be changed for the political freedom is useless with out the economic independence. Our old stories of colonisation, and history of Russia, South Korea and Mexico are strong examples of how industrial growth and economy viability within the countries is essential to withstand global recessions and its impacts.
By all means, there is lot more of work coming up....especially its time for companies to look up strong strategists who can work on corporate objectives to enhance the smooth transition towards growth and re-engineering. It is a mammoth task but a definite task that need to be accomplished sooner than later. India's IIM and top university grads can help to build this process, for we have a talent pool which is a mixture of engineering skills and also economic considerations along with process orientation. Its time for Processes and Projects to go hand in hand and to be in par all times. COMMON INDIA, THE WORLD NEEDS YOUR BRAINS AND TALENTS TO RESTRUCTURE THE ECONOMIES...JUST GO AHEAD AND DO YOUR BIT TO REVITALISE AND STOP THE TUMBLING BLOCKS FROM FALLING.....
Move forward! Yes, the biggest questions lies behind on what need to be changed, how to be changed, and what is the cost and time involved and a real readiness for the change from the conservative way of approach in the business. The Auto Industry need to look into more fuel efficient, economic and reliable vehicles on road. The manufacturing plants need to revamp with newer technologies which would be one time investment and time for change in tools and machinery. The travel industry need to look into more economic and viable solutions than aiming for the cosy infrastructure and advertising. The Financing industry need to start picking up lessons from the past and look into more conservative ways of financing that proved fatal and also look into the Asian financing system that much more stronger on fundamentals. The Insurance sector need to look into what the terms and conditions stated can be redefined. The health sector need to reestablish with tie up with insurance companies and corporates to bring in a more down to earth health packages and solutions to reach the common man. The Pharmaceutical industry need to get more organised with clubbing of solutions instead of we having 10 different medicines for simple headache, the medical fraternity can work towards simpled single solution that is economical, viable and effort worthy.. the fashion and film industry should bring in a change in the kind of amount that is spent on unnecessary things and can divert towards social causes. Infact the political scenario of few countries need to be changed for the political freedom is useless with out the economic independence. Our old stories of colonisation, and history of Russia, South Korea and Mexico are strong examples of how industrial growth and economy viability within the countries is essential to withstand global recessions and its impacts.
By all means, there is lot more of work coming up....especially its time for companies to look up strong strategists who can work on corporate objectives to enhance the smooth transition towards growth and re-engineering. It is a mammoth task but a definite task that need to be accomplished sooner than later. India's IIM and top university grads can help to build this process, for we have a talent pool which is a mixture of engineering skills and also economic considerations along with process orientation. Its time for Processes and Projects to go hand in hand and to be in par all times. COMMON INDIA, THE WORLD NEEDS YOUR BRAINS AND TALENTS TO RESTRUCTURE THE ECONOMIES...JUST GO AHEAD AND DO YOUR BIT TO REVITALISE AND STOP THE TUMBLING BLOCKS FROM FALLING.....
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Recession, credit crunch, layoffs. cost cutting and what not!!!
Since October 2008, we had been continuously hearing the words I mentioned here in the title... Are we really in a globally worst times, or in an much exaggerated situation. Did all these companies fail and suddenly tumbled in October or what there a hidden storm unpredicted. United States, a country which is considered the most powerful and developed nation did not predict and prevent an economic tsunami?! The countries which predict weather forecast every 10 minutes on television channels, care about puppies and kittens, failed to look into the fire that was going blaze down the very living of millions of people?? Who failed and where did we fail as a global village.
As an analyst, I would like to look into this from an entirely different view point. Simple question: When does an economy tumble? It tumbles down when there is no cash flow. OK, when does the cash flow stop?? The cash flow stops when the consumers stop buying. Right, why do consumers stop buying? Either they don't have enough money, or not able to avail enough credit, or do not have jobs to support the finances or a new consumer behaviour emerges where the concept of savings begin. Paradoxically, one of the 4 above could be the reasons.
Lets look into each phenomena, do not have enough money!.. means that people's needs are more than the actual means. Or the money is just sufficient to handle the inflated prices and needs. Secondly, there is no enough credit. 9 :10 was the credit standards of the bank in US, and in Europe the lending ratio was 10.5: 10, Where as in developing nations, the credit ratio was 7:10, which means the banks lend 7 rupees against the 10 rupees liquidity or cash reserve or funding dynamics. Now the situation had come that if the 9 rupees of 10 is not paid periodically back to the bank, due to the first reason here, the banks will run out of reserves. So its a cyclic reaction. The next was that foreclosures. I have seen a sea of cars put for sale in a stadium...remember the auction began at less than 1000$ for each car which could anyway be worth of 16000$ and above... and North Perry street adjacent to where I live, is abandoned with empty houses..lot many so beautiful and well designed. Banks are struggling to maintain these houses, and keep paying the basic bills to the government. What happened to the people suddenly?? There was no major concept of savings in general. Which means, when the worst had hit, there is a no fall back plan. Companies think about the BCP and Disaster recovery plans...not able understand why and where there failed to be a Financial Disaster recovery plan...something failed strategically over the years. Last one, the loss of jobs and its direct impact on the people and the consumerism. Though its late, every dollar in hand counts today.
I remember reading in my history classes, the way East India Company conquered the trade in India, and slowly paved a way for the British to rule... because the economy and fate of the people depend on the strong trade and commerce. For a moment, though it hurts, the reality is that 8 out of 10 products that I purchased in the last ten days, do not have the stamp "Made in USA". Virtually, the entire market is flooded with products from Taiwan, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and India. My friend Lori and me were discussing this in detail... she expressed her anger that the last ship of 1945 World War II, which had been auctioned to Mexico, is now on its final journey to India to be dismantled and used for the strong steel it has..you know what, to be made as "Manhole covers" and exported back to USA. US Steel company failed for the first time in history and nearly 150 banks are struggling to make it, consumer retail product companies, airlines, manufacturing and the worst hit American Automobile industry. Lori also said in anger, that people do not acknowledge the fact that we should buy indigenous products so that jobs are created here and people earn a living. May be she is hinting at a strong lesson to all of us all over the world. First create opportunities for your own products, your own people and your own industry. Global Economy and concepts are universally accepted, but we cannot in that urge let us fail as individual countries. The minute a developed nation's economy is hit, it had its own chain reaction across the globe. May be, its a real time for all of us to think on what products to buy and make the cash flow in the economy viable for the growth of Individual Nations.
May its again time for us to raise our flags and call for a Gandhian era, where at a time, we banned the foreign goods.... Save Yourselves!!!
As an analyst, I would like to look into this from an entirely different view point. Simple question: When does an economy tumble? It tumbles down when there is no cash flow. OK, when does the cash flow stop?? The cash flow stops when the consumers stop buying. Right, why do consumers stop buying? Either they don't have enough money, or not able to avail enough credit, or do not have jobs to support the finances or a new consumer behaviour emerges where the concept of savings begin. Paradoxically, one of the 4 above could be the reasons.
Lets look into each phenomena, do not have enough money!.. means that people's needs are more than the actual means. Or the money is just sufficient to handle the inflated prices and needs. Secondly, there is no enough credit. 9 :10 was the credit standards of the bank in US, and in Europe the lending ratio was 10.5: 10, Where as in developing nations, the credit ratio was 7:10, which means the banks lend 7 rupees against the 10 rupees liquidity or cash reserve or funding dynamics. Now the situation had come that if the 9 rupees of 10 is not paid periodically back to the bank, due to the first reason here, the banks will run out of reserves. So its a cyclic reaction. The next was that foreclosures. I have seen a sea of cars put for sale in a stadium...remember the auction began at less than 1000$ for each car which could anyway be worth of 16000$ and above... and North Perry street adjacent to where I live, is abandoned with empty houses..lot many so beautiful and well designed. Banks are struggling to maintain these houses, and keep paying the basic bills to the government. What happened to the people suddenly?? There was no major concept of savings in general. Which means, when the worst had hit, there is a no fall back plan. Companies think about the BCP and Disaster recovery plans...not able understand why and where there failed to be a Financial Disaster recovery plan...something failed strategically over the years. Last one, the loss of jobs and its direct impact on the people and the consumerism. Though its late, every dollar in hand counts today.
I remember reading in my history classes, the way East India Company conquered the trade in India, and slowly paved a way for the British to rule... because the economy and fate of the people depend on the strong trade and commerce. For a moment, though it hurts, the reality is that 8 out of 10 products that I purchased in the last ten days, do not have the stamp "Made in USA". Virtually, the entire market is flooded with products from Taiwan, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and India. My friend Lori and me were discussing this in detail... she expressed her anger that the last ship of 1945 World War II, which had been auctioned to Mexico, is now on its final journey to India to be dismantled and used for the strong steel it has..you know what, to be made as "Manhole covers" and exported back to USA. US Steel company failed for the first time in history and nearly 150 banks are struggling to make it, consumer retail product companies, airlines, manufacturing and the worst hit American Automobile industry. Lori also said in anger, that people do not acknowledge the fact that we should buy indigenous products so that jobs are created here and people earn a living. May be she is hinting at a strong lesson to all of us all over the world. First create opportunities for your own products, your own people and your own industry. Global Economy and concepts are universally accepted, but we cannot in that urge let us fail as individual countries. The minute a developed nation's economy is hit, it had its own chain reaction across the globe. May be, its a real time for all of us to think on what products to buy and make the cash flow in the economy viable for the growth of Individual Nations.
May its again time for us to raise our flags and call for a Gandhian era, where at a time, we banned the foreign goods.... Save Yourselves!!!
Succeeding within the box
"When we will get more tools and better systems"
Most of us have heard the saying "Creativity is thinking outside the box". There's alot of truth in that, but to me, the true creativity is this : Succeeding within the box.
Hitting targets, reaching goals, doing the job well and making a difference with what we already have is the QBQ way. Every organization has imperfect systems and finite resources. We may wish we had newer tools, better systems, more people and bigger bugets. But thinking too much about what we'd like to have is another cause of procrastination. Managers, for example, won't take their group through team-building until "all the right people are in place" . Individuals won't make a decision until they have all the information or take action until all the questions are answered.
Ironically, suceeding with what have makes us more likely to get the things we wanted in the first place. Listen to the wisdom of Deb Weber of State Farm Insurance: "I'll find that every time I do the job with the tools I have, I tend to receive more tools", Its a truth: We sow, we reap.
Focusing on what we don't have is a waste of time and energy. To really make a difference, let's instead focus our energy on succeeding within the box. Let's ask the QBQ "How can I achieve with the resources I already have?"
PS:"This is one post that I print and keep on my desk since 2003, from the time Johnny Tsang shared this with me, an extract from John G Miller's writing. By the way, QBQ means- The Questions behind the Question.
Most of us have heard the saying "Creativity is thinking outside the box". There's alot of truth in that, but to me, the true creativity is this : Succeeding within the box.
Hitting targets, reaching goals, doing the job well and making a difference with what we already have is the QBQ way. Every organization has imperfect systems and finite resources. We may wish we had newer tools, better systems, more people and bigger bugets. But thinking too much about what we'd like to have is another cause of procrastination. Managers, for example, won't take their group through team-building until "all the right people are in place" . Individuals won't make a decision until they have all the information or take action until all the questions are answered.
Ironically, suceeding with what have makes us more likely to get the things we wanted in the first place. Listen to the wisdom of Deb Weber of State Farm Insurance: "I'll find that every time I do the job with the tools I have, I tend to receive more tools", Its a truth: We sow, we reap.
Focusing on what we don't have is a waste of time and energy. To really make a difference, let's instead focus our energy on succeeding within the box. Let's ask the QBQ "How can I achieve with the resources I already have?"
PS:"This is one post that I print and keep on my desk since 2003, from the time Johnny Tsang shared this with me, an extract from John G Miller's writing. By the way, QBQ means- The Questions behind the Question.
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