Sachin Sharma

Category: Opinion

Everything I write is my honest opinion based on my personal experience.

  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Understanding Why You Put Things Off

    The Psychology of Procrastination: Understanding Why You Put Things Off

    Have you ever found yourself putting things off, even though you know they need to get done? You’re not alone! Procrastination is a common struggle for many people, and it can be a tough habit to break. But the good news is, by understanding the psychology behind why we procrastinate, we can learn how to overcome it and get things done.

    The Roots of Procrastination

    For me, procrastination started as a lack of motivation. I would get an idea and then lose steam as I went from planning to execution. But even when I did get started on a project, I always found the execution part to be more enjoyable than the planning and preparation stages.

    This led me to start a YouTube channel, where I could share my ideas through video. I thought it would be a more engaging and efficient way to publish content. But the process of learning to shoot and edit professionally was much more time-consuming than I anticipated. This led me to start a separate YouTube channel where I could focus solely on learning to shoot and edit. Although my first attempts weren’t great, I learned a lot and was able to see how much I was already ahead of many other YouTube channels in terms of video and editing quality.

    Making Matters Worse

    The second wave of COVID-19 hit India and brought my progress to a halt. I got infected and wasn’t able to edit the video I shot in April 2021. Our upcoming guests also started to have second thoughts about shooting in the middle of the pandemic, so I took a much-needed break.

    But that break only made things worse. I think it was either a side effect of COVID or my habit of procrastination evolving, but I wasn’t re-energized. Instead, my habit of delaying and postponing things became more consistent.

    Realizing the Problem

    I then realized that my procrastination had taken over other areas of my life as well. For example, I started a blog with the intention of using it as a journal, but over time it turned into a lifestyle and news website, and eventually, an abandoned page. I felt guilty and ashamed that I had let my busy life get in the way of something I loved doing, like writing.

    Finding a Solution

    After much contemplation and self-reflection, I finally understood the root of my procrastination problem. I realized that my procrastination was like a “friend with benefits.” It was okay to have it around when I needed a break, but I was relying on it even when I should be focusing on more important things. This was turning into a guilty pleasure, and I knew it was time to end it before our relationship became toxic.

    The lesson is: it’s time to say goodbye to this “fun friend.” The guilt of being complacent was making me miserable, and it was time to focus on the things that matter. So, my dear procrastination, it’s time for us to take a break from each other. Let’s make sure our beautiful relationship doesn’t turn toxic and ruin one of us. And we both know it would be me!

  • The Inspiration Trap: How Success Stories Can Harm Your Self-Esteem

    The Inspiration Trap: How Success Stories Can Harm Your Self-Esteem

    With the rise of social media and influencer culture, it’s easy to get caught up in the glitz and glamour of other people’s success stories. We see someone go from rags to riches overnight and think, “If they can do it, so can I.” But what we don’t see is the years of hard work, the failures, and the sacrifices they made to get to where they are today.

    Success stories are everywhere, but they’re not always the truth. In fact, many of them are nothing more than carefully crafted PR campaigns designed to make us believe that anyone can become a millionaire with a little bit of effort and determination. The problem is that this simply isn’t true. Not everyone has the resources, the opportunities, or the talent to make it big, and that’s okay. But when we constantly compare ourselves to these “overnight success” stories, it can harm our self-esteem and lead to feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and dissatisfaction.

    So, what is the true measure of success? Is it about making as much money as possible, or is it about finding happiness, inner peace, and fulfillment in life? It’s important to remember that success means different things to different people, and that’s okay. What’s important is that we find our own definition of success and work towards achieving it in a way that brings us joy, not anxiety.

    One of the greatest minds of our time, Steve Jobs, once said, “The wealth I have won in my life I cannot bring with me. What I can bring is only the memories precipitated by love. That’s the true riches which will follow you, accompany you, giving you strength and light to go on.” Success isn’t just about making money, it’s about finding love, joy, and happiness in our lives. When we focus on these things, we find that our success becomes a by-product of our happiness, not the other way around.

    So, how do we avoid falling into the inspiration trap? How do we keep our self-esteem intact while still striving for success? Here are a few tips to help you on your journey:

    1. Define your own success: Take the time to reflect on what success means to you, and what you want to achieve in life. Write it down, and make it your own.
    2. Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not tear you down. Seek out mentors and role models who inspire you and support you on your journey.
    3. Celebrate small wins: Recognize and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may be. This will help build your confidence and keep you motivated.
    4. Don’t compare yourself to others: Remember that everyone’s journey is unique and that comparison is the thief of joy. Focus on your own progress and celebrate your own successes, no matter how small they may be.
    5. Take care of your mental health: Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, so make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Seek help if you need it, and never be afraid to speak up if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

    So, don’t get caught up in the inspiration trap. Find your own definition of success and focus on what matters most to you. You’ll be much happier and fulfilled in the long run.

  • The Journey Within: Understanding the Directionless Life and How to Move Forward

    The Journey Within: Understanding the Directionless Life and How to Move Forward

    Welcome to the real world, where every day feels like a constant race. We hustle and bustle, running after wealth, success, and material possessions, all in the pursuit of happiness. But what happens when we finally attain all these things, and still, the happiness we seek eludes us? That’s the paradox of life, and it’s a journey that many of us find ourselves on.

    The world today can be a confusing place, and it’s easy to feel lost in the sea of noise and information. People are so busy chasing their dreams that they forget to stop and ask themselves, “What is my purpose?” We’re told to follow our passions and find our calling, but what happens when you don’t know what that is, or when your passions seem to change every other day?

    It’s natural to feel directionless, especially in our young adult years, when we’re trying to figure out who we are and where we’re going. We’re bombarded with messages from society that tell us what we should be doing, but the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to life’s big questions. It’s up to each of us to find our own path.

    The good news is that you’re not alone in this journey. Many of us have gone through the same struggles and doubts, and have come out on the other side with a newfound sense of purpose. The key is to start by looking within. When we take the time to reflect on our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, we can gain insight into what drives us and what truly makes us happy.

    So, how do you start the journey of self-discovery? First, you need to quiet the noise of the world and focus on what’s important to you. This might mean spending time alone in nature, journaling your thoughts and feelings, or meditating to clear your mind. Whatever method you choose, the goal is to create space for introspection and reflection.

    Next, it’s essential to challenge the limiting beliefs that are holding you back. We all have beliefs about ourselves and the world that shape our thoughts and actions, but many of these beliefs are outdated and no longer serve us. By questioning these beliefs and letting go of what’s not working, we can open ourselves up to new possibilities and perspectives.

    Finally, be open to new experiences and opportunities. When we’re stuck in our ways, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut, but by stepping out of our comfort zones, we can learn new things, meet new people, and gain a fresh perspective on life. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, volunteering for a cause you believe in, or traveling to a new place, the opportunities for growth are endless.

    Remember, the journey of self-discovery is not a linear one. You may encounter setbacks, and there may be times when you feel like giving up, but it’s important to keep pushing forward. Life is a journey of growth, and every step we take, whether it’s forward or backward, brings us closer to the person we’re meant to be.

    The journey within is not about finding the answer to life’s big questions, but rather, it’s about asking the right questions. It’s about exploring our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and learning to trust our instincts. It’s about breaking free from the limitations that hold us back and embracing the unknown. So, start your journey today, and let the road lead you to the life you were meant to live.

  • The True Meaning of Helping: Why Seeking Gratitude Shouldn’t Be the Goal

    The True Meaning of Helping: Why Seeking Gratitude Shouldn’t Be the Goal

    It’s natural to have a desire to be a hero and help those in need. Whether it’s lending a hand to a friend in need or volunteering in the community, helping others is a way to make a difference and feel good about oneself. However, the reality of helping is not always as simple as it seems.

    It’s no secret that help is rarely unconditional and selfless. There is always some underlying motive, even if it’s just the desire to be someone’s hero. But in our quest to be heroes, we often forget one important rule – to leave as soon as the job is done.

    While it can be tempting to stick around and listen to words of gratitude and appreciation, especially from a stranger, this can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can boost our self-esteem and make us feel worthwhile. On the other hand, it can also create false expectations and misconceptions about our true character.

    When we help someone, we become the source of their happiness and they are often full of praises for us. But the problem is that these praises are based solely on our one act of kindness. Deep down, we know that this is not an accurate reflection of our entire personality. Just imagine if someone judged your entire character based on one mistake – you wouldn’t like it, right?

    Unfortunately, the person we are helping is also making the same mistake. They are viewing us through a narrow lens based on that one good deed, and it’s easy to become caught up in that perception. But living in this delusion for too long can have consequences.

    We may be able to maintain this “good image” for a while by exhibiting a pattern of helpful behavior, but because it’s not our true self, we are bound to break the pattern at some point. And when we do, even if it’s just a small mistake, the other person may not be able to accept it because we were supposed to be their hero. This small mistake can trigger a chain reaction of mistakes in their eyes, and before we know it, we have broken expectations, promises, or even someone’s heart.

    The solution is simple – leave as soon as our help is no longer needed. This will not only save us from the embarrassment of breaking the illusion, but it will also allow the beneficiary of our help to hold onto the gratitude for longer. And, as a rule of thumb, good deeds are forgotten faster than mistakes, so there’s no point dwelling on them for too long.

    The next time you have the opportunity to help someone, remember to play it safe and leave as soon as the job is done – just like a superhero! But more importantly, remember that the true meaning of helping is not about seeking gratitude or recognition. It’s about making a difference and being there for others, without any expectations or ulterior motives.

    The satisfaction of making a positive impact on someone’s life is reward enough. And even if it goes unnoticed, that doesn’t diminish the impact you made. So, go ahead and help others, but do it for the right reasons. Be there for someone because you want to, not because you want to be seen as a hero. The act of kindness in and of itself is what truly makes you a hero.

  • A Lotus in the Mud: An Interview by Pragati Sharma

    A Lotus in the Mud: An Interview by Pragati Sharma

    Dilshad Ali and Tilak Raj have been friends for over 20 years now. From sharing a rented apartment to sharing food, their story of love and care despite different faiths is all what we need to look up to. A simple story with foundation of values of compassion and respect; basic and yet forgotten.

    The Khan Rajma Chawal stall comes across as any other roadside food joint in Chandigarh. It sells delicious Rajma Chawal and Curry Chawal at prices starting as low as ₹30.

    The owner Dilshad Ali and his friend Tilak Raj, along with two helpers can be seen setting up their food stall a little after noon. It is usually the lunch hour, and customers from office-goers, passers-by to students can be seen buying from them. Students are especially fond of their feed and thus are seen in more numbers. Ali and Raj remain busy for the next 3 hours as customers come steadily.

    Dilshad Ali and Tilak Raj have been selling Rajma Chawal and Curry Chawal for 3 years now in Sector 15 Market, Chandigarh. However, it isn’t just the delicious food they sell that makes their story worth sharing, but a tale of incredible friendship thrashing stigmas and stereotypes.

    In present times when it is hard to overlook cases of communal tensions, their story sets a confident example of tolerance and fraternity between religions. The intimacy is both an inspiration and assurance to gladden our hearts.

    Dilshad Ali Khan, a Muslim by faith and Tilak Raj, a Hindu, boast of a friendship which is 23 years old. The friendship has witnessed no ups and downs in these years.

    “Ups and downs in friendship come with selfish interests. Here, it is pure love and support.”

    Dilshad, who started off as an electrician says he always have had love for cooking and wanted to pursue it. “I used to see youngsters around, they had problem finding good food here. My only attempt was to provide them quality food so they don’t miss home.” His wife, who also is a good cook, helps him in preparing the food. Tilak Raj, otherwise a government employee, comes only to help during the selling hours. He talks less and is quiet during most of the interview.

    Dilshad and Tilak Raj serving food to customers

    In response to skirmishes in the relation due to different belief systems, they say there have never been any.

    “It never felt like we are different or our beliefs are different. Mazhab nahi sikhata, aapas mein bair rakhna (Religion does not profess hostility). We follow this teaching.”

    Overall, the city has been kind to them, but their association have now and then faced criticism which “isn’t deserving enough to be paid attention to and should be ignored.”

    Talking of the persisting communal tensions in the country, Dilshad says, “The government should not try to incept communal hatred and rather maintain a congruous atmosphere. It is only a handful of people who try to disturb the peace and such people have no religion. Amidst of all this, it takes an effort to preserve this brotherhood of ours, allowing it to not get stained. I pray to Allah that it stays the same.”

    Pleased at being able to provide healthy and hygienic food at a reasonable price, they plan to extend the business. The food comes as a savior to students living as paying guests and is greeted with immense liking as people appear in considerable numbers.

    “I am a college student and I live in a paying guest (PG) accommodation, so it feels really good to have lunch there. It reminds me of my mother’s hand made food.”, says Shraddha Juyal (20), a college student. “Khan stall’s food gives me a taste of home away from home!”, says another college student,  Anmol Kaur (20).

    Their beautiful pact among serious communal conflict prevalent today, blooms and stands alone like a lotus in the mud! (pun intended)

  • The Power of Introverts: Enhanced Thinking, Empathy, and Therapeutic Potential

    The Power of Introverts: Enhanced Thinking, Empathy, and Therapeutic Potential

    Introverts have often been misunderstood and underestimated in a world that values extroverted qualities. However, recent research suggests that introverts possess unique strengths that make them exceptional thinkers, empathizers, and potential therapists. In this article, we will explore how introverts’ inherent traits contribute to their ability to think deeply, empathize genuinely, and excel in the field of therapy.

    Introverts thrive in solitude and introspection, which allows them to engage in deep thinking and reflection. Their preference for quiet and contemplative environments enables them to focus and analyze information with great precision. Introverts possess an inclination for deep introspection, which encourages critical thinking and a profound understanding of complex concepts. This ability to think deeply enables them to approach problems from various angles, consider multiple perspectives, and arrive at insightful conclusions.

    Empathy is another remarkable trait commonly found in introverts. Their preference for observation and listening cultivates a heightened sense of empathy and understanding. Introverts are naturally attentive to the feelings and needs of others, making them skilled at recognizing and empathizing with different emotional states. They have a unique ability to connect with individuals on a deep emotional level, creating a safe and supportive space for others to express themselves.

    These inherent qualities make introverts well-suited for the field of therapy. The therapeutic process relies heavily on active listening, understanding, and creating a non-judgmental environment. Introverted therapists excel in these areas, as their natural inclination to listen deeply and observe attentively allows them to truly understand and empathize with their clients’ experiences. Their ability to connect on an emotional level helps establish trust and build strong therapeutic alliances.

    Introverted therapists often possess exceptional active listening skills, which are fundamental to effective therapy. They can create a safe and nurturing space for clients to express their thoughts and emotions without feeling rushed or judged. Introverts’ reflective nature allows them to carefully process and respond to clients’ concerns with thoughtfulness and empathy. This thoughtful approach fosters meaningful dialogue, helping clients gain insight, develop coping strategies, and work towards personal growth.

    Moreover, introverts’ preference for one-on-one interactions and their ability to focus deeply can be advantageous in therapy sessions. They are skilled at creating a calm and serene atmosphere where clients feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and concerns. The introverted therapist’s ability to listen deeply, analyze information, and offer thoughtful responses promotes a productive therapeutic relationship.

    It’s important to recognize that not all introverts are automatically suited for the field of therapy, just as not all extroverts are automatically excluded. Introversion and extroversion exist on a spectrum, and individuals possess unique qualities and strengths regardless of their personality type. Therapy requires a diverse range of personalities and approaches to meet the varied needs of clients.

    In conclusion, introverts possess exceptional qualities that make them exceptional thinkers, empathizers, and potential therapists. Their deep-thinking abilities, genuine empathy, and preference for introspection contribute to their success in understanding and connecting with others. By embracing and valuing the unique strengths of introverts, we can appreciate the significant impact they can make as therapists and advocates for mental health.

  • The Quest for Happiness: A Heartfelt Letter

    The Quest for Happiness: A Heartfelt Letter

    Dear Happiness,

    Remember the times when we were young, wild and free? Those carefree days when we laughed until our stomachs ached, and the world was our playground. I want to take you down memory lane and revisit some of the happiest moments we shared together.

    Do you remember the night when we were both upset about being forced to sleep early for school? When we looked at the night bulb and said “Wow, everyone is asleep but I am still awake.” That moment made us feel like we were unstoppable. Even though we hadn’t done our homework, and we thought we would get in trouble the next day, the teacher didn’t show up. That day will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’ll never forget the joy we felt when we realized we had dodged a bullet.

    The excitement I felt playing with the strange objects I used to keep in a polybag still makes me smile. I could play with those cells, wires, batteries, and magnets for hours without getting tired. It was all thanks to you, and I still have some of those toys to this day.

    When we had to change cities and schools, we faced a lot of challenges, but you were always there with me. We made new friends, had fun and created memories that still make us laugh. And who can forget that night with our cousins, when we all danced together without a care in the world? That was a moment of pure joy, and I feel grateful to have shared it with you.

    College was a rollercoaster of emotions, but we got through it together. We found happiness in movies, computers, games, comics, and novels. And even when life got tough, you never left my side. I’ll always be grateful for the support of my family, friends, and of course, you.

    Do you remember our daily walks in Mumbai, the city that never sleeps? Those journeys on local trains and buses helped shape me into who I am today. I learned to cherish you even more during that time. I didn’t mind sacrificing sleep, or walking miles without getting tired because I was happy. And do you remember the time I met that creepy guy on the bus from Infinity Mall to Andheri Station? Although it was a strange encounter, it still brings a smile to my face.

    I also discovered that sharing you with others is a way to keep you around longer. I started talking to strangers on trains and buses and even gave pep talks to people who were going through tough times. It was a proud moment when I was able to bring positivity into someone’s life, even if it was just for a moment.

    Money may bring comfort and security, but it doesn’t bring happiness. I used to think that once I started earning a good salary, my life would be complete. But I was wrong. The happiness I felt eating a cheap Vada Pav and Limbu-paani can never be replaced by dining at fancy restaurants and eating expensive food.

    In conclusion, I want to say thank you for being there for me throughout the ups and downs of life. You have brought joy and happiness into my life, and I am forever grateful for your existence. I hope this letter takes you down memory lane and reminds you of all the amazing moments we have shared together.

    Yours always,

    Sachin

  • The Panchayat’s Verdict: How Arbitrary Justice Denies True Justice

    The Panchayat’s Verdict: How Arbitrary Justice Denies True Justice

    Once upon a time, in a small village, there was a young girl who lived with her parents. She was raised in a household where arguments and fights between her parents were more common than the daily news. Due to this, she grew up feeling neglected and yearned for love and attention from anyone who showed her kindness.

    One person who filled this void in her life was her uncle. He treated her like a little doll and she would often visit his house just to be in his presence. To her, he was more than just an uncle; he was the father figure she had always dreamed of having.

    However, this fantasy world was shattered one day when her uncle made advances on her in the kitchen, when they were alone. He hugged her from behind and said things that made her feel uncomfortable. This continued to happen every chance he got, and she was left helpless, as her parents were too caught up in their own problems to notice what was going on.

    After a few years, she mustered up the courage to tell her mother about what was happening, but her father was angry and blamed her for what was happening. He thought that she was responsible for her uncle’s actions because she was too close to him. Her parents didn’t believe her and dismissed her claims.

    Years passed, and the girl found herself standing in front of a crowd of around 50 people, listening to her uncle give a judgment as the Pannch (judge) of the Panchayat. The topic at hand was the moral and ethical behavior of young adults, and her uncle was speaking of how the youth of today were being misled by the world of cinema and TV.

    The girl’s heart sank as she listened to her uncle, who was the same man who had taken advantage of her and made her feel uncomfortable all those years ago, talk about morality and respect. Everybody was happy with the judgment, but the girl felt like it was a mockery of justice.

    She thought to herself, “If only there was a Panchayat that day to punish my uncle for his actions, who just made a mockery of the word ‘morality’”. The girl went home, behind her parents, feeling defeated and hopeless.

    This story is a reminder of how arbitrary justice can sometimes deny true justice. The Panchayat system, which is supposed to provide justice to the people, can sometimes fail to do so if the judge is biased or has his own hidden agendas. This highlights the need for a fair and just legal system that is free from any kind of biases or prejudices.

    The young girl in this story represents all the victims who have suffered at the hands of people in positions of power, who abuse their power to fulfill their own desires. We must work towards creating a world where every voice is heard, and every person is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

    We must not let the fear of being judged or the fear of being blamed stop us from speaking out against the wrongs that are being done to us. Only by speaking up and fighting for what is right can we create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

  • Too Much of a Good Thing: The Negative Side of Sacrificing for Others

    Too Much of a Good Thing: The Negative Side of Sacrificing for Others

    Hey there, kind and considerate person! You’re in the prime of your life and looking back, you’ve spent a lot of time and energy trying to make others happy. But, have you stopped to think if you’re actually doing them any good or yourself? It’s time to have a chat about why sacrificing too much for others might not be the best idea.

    First, let’s talk about the people you’re trying to help. They’re facing their own struggles in life – emotional, physical, psychological, or something else entirely. They’re doing their best to navigate through it all, but sometimes it gets overwhelming. That’s when you step in, thinking you’re the answer to their problems. But, hold up – you’re not the solution they need. They may want a change of scenery, a different perspective, or simply some rest. You’re not the answer they’re looking for, you’re just a temporary distraction.

    Think about it, if you hadn’t been there, something else would’ve filled that gap. Maybe a TV show, a song, or someone else entirely. By stepping in to “help”, you’re making yourself replaceable. It’s not making you a better person, it’s making you just another temporary distraction.

    And what about you? Do you think you’re helping others and becoming a better person in the process? Think again. By putting your own struggles aside to help someone else, you’re actually not doing yourself any favors. The people you’re trying to help will find a way to overcome their challenges, with or without you. They have their own resources and support systems – whether it be religion or just their own inner strength.

    It’s like you were playing a game of golf and saw another player struggling. Instead of continuing your own game, you dropped everything to be their caddie. But, what happens to your own game? The caddie’s role is temporary and replaceable. It doesn’t matter who’s carrying the clubs, the point is – you’re not playing your own game anymore.

    So, ask yourself – do you want to be a golf player or someone else’s temporary caddie? Don’t sacrifice your own happiness and well-being for others. You’re just as important as anyone else and deserve to focus on your own life and struggles. Don’t be a temporary distraction, be your own game changer.

  • The Power of Self-Love: How to Be Happy Alone and Just Be Awesome!

    The Power of Self-Love: How to Be Happy Alone and Just Be Awesome!

    Have you ever felt like you were all alone and had nobody to turn to? I know I have. I used to believe that the people I thought were there for me would always be there to support me, no matter what. But when I needed them the most, they weren’t there. And that’s when I realized that the world doesn’t work like that. The people we believe will be there for us may not always be there when we need them the most.

    But that’s okay. Because sometimes, being left alone is exactly what we need. It’s a wake-up call, a reality check that shows us that we can’t rely on others to make us happy. We have to do it ourselves. And that’s where self-love comes in.

    You see, when people say they like you, they’re talking about your outer appearance. They’re not interested in the real you, your inner soul. They’re just curious about your life and what makes you tick. And that’s why we have to stop relying on others for our happiness and start relying on ourselves.

    We have to learn to differentiate between what we really need and what we’ve just convinced ourselves that we need. We have to break the habit of seeking the company of others and start living our lives on our own. And once we do that, we’ll realize that we don’t need anyone else to do what we have to do. We’re capable of doing it ourselves.

    So, let go. Embrace your solitude. And make a promise to never let yourself be vulnerable again. The only person you can truly rely on is yourself. And once you start loving yourself, others will start to find you interesting again. They’ll be drawn to your confidence and independence. But be careful, because this is the same trap that you fell into in the first place. Focus on what you want, not on what others want from you.

    The lesson that life has taught me is that being alone isn’t a bad thing. It’s actually a powerful thing. When you learn to love and be happy with yourself, you become awesome. And you don’t have to be someone else to achieve that. You just have to be yourself. So, go ahead and be awesome!