Sachin Sharma

Tag: Empathy

  • Empathy: The Secret Ingredient for a Thriving Business

    Empathy: The Secret Ingredient for a Thriving Business

    In the fast-paced world of business, where metrics and analytics often take center stage, there’s a secret ingredient that holds the key to true success: empathy.

    As Henry Ford famously said, “If there is any one secret of success, it lies in the ability to get the other person’s point of view and see things from his angle as well as your own.” In other words, understanding people is paramount. It’s not just about the bottom line; it’s about the individuals who make up your team and your customer base.

    Empathy is the cornerstone of success in business. It’s the ability to listen, truly listen, to the needs and concerns of others. When leaders take the time to understand their employees and customers, and when teams feel heard and valued, extraordinary things happen. Businesses don’t just grow in terms of revenue and profits; they also foster loyalty and drive innovation.

    But what exactly does empathy look like in practice? It means seeing the world through your customer’s eyes and walking in your employee’s shoes. It’s about recognizing and acknowledging the diverse perspectives and experiences that exist within your organization and your customer base.

    Empathy is what transforms a good company into a great one. It’s the difference between a transactional relationship and a genuine connection. When businesses prioritize empathy, they cultivate long-term relationships with their customers, turning one-time buyers into loyal advocates.

    So how can businesses cultivate empathy in their day-to-day operations? It starts with listening—truly listening—to the voices of your customers and employees. Take the time to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. Empathy also requires leaders to lead by example, demonstrating compassion and understanding in their interactions with others.

    But empathy goes beyond just words; it’s about taking action to address the needs of others. Whether it’s implementing flexible work policies to support employees’ work-life balance or offering personalized solutions to meet customers’ unique needs, empathy drives meaningful change within organizations.

    Ultimately, empathy isn’t just a feel-good concept; it’s a strategic imperative for businesses in today’s competitive landscape. By prioritizing empathy, businesses can foster stronger relationships with their customers, inspire greater loyalty among their employees, and drive innovation that meets the evolving needs of their stakeholders.

    In conclusion, empathy isn’t just the secret ingredient for a thriving business—it’s the foundation upon which lasting success is built. So let’s listen more, understand deeper, and put ourselves in others’ shoes. Because when we do, we’re not just building businesses; we’re building a better world.

  • Finding Faults: Why People Fail to See Their Own

    Finding Faults: Why People Fail to See Their Own

    It is a common phenomenon to encounter individuals who seem adept at pointing out the flaws and faults in others, yet remain oblivious to their own shortcomings. This tendency is often rooted in various psychological factors that contribute to what is known as the “self-serving bias.” In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why some people easily find faults in others but struggle to recognize their own, shedding light on this intriguing and often frustrating aspect of human behavior.

    The Self-Serving Bias:

    The self-serving bias is a cognitive bias that influences the way individuals perceive themselves and their actions in comparison to others. It leads people to attribute their successes to internal factors, such as personal abilities and efforts, while attributing their failures to external factors, such as bad luck or external circumstances. This bias provides a self-protective mechanism that helps maintain self-esteem and shields individuals from negative self-perceptions.

    Projection: A Defense Mechanism:

    One psychological concept that contributes to this behavior is projection. Projection is a defense mechanism wherein individuals unconsciously project their undesirable qualities, emotions, or impulses onto others. By doing so, they displace their negative traits onto someone else, allowing them to maintain a positive self-image while denigrating others.

    Fear of Vulnerability:

    The fear of vulnerability can also play a significant role in this behavior. Acknowledging one’s own faults can be emotionally challenging, as it may lead to feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy. To protect themselves from facing these uncomfortable emotions, individuals may divert their attention to finding faults in others, providing a temporary sense of superiority and distraction from their own insecurities.

    Confirmation Bias:

    Confirmation bias further perpetuates this behavior. People tend to seek out information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs and views while ignoring or downplaying evidence that challenges them. In the context of finding faults, individuals may be subconsciously drawn to information that supports their negative perception of others while disregarding evidence that suggests they may possess similar flaws.

    Lack of Self-Awareness:

    Another contributing factor is the lack of self-awareness. Some individuals may simply be unaware of their own faults due to a lack of introspection or feedback from others. Without self-awareness, they may genuinely believe they are faultless or superior to others, further fueling their tendency to find faults in others while ignoring their own.

    Overcompensation for Insecurities:

    In certain cases, people who consistently criticize others may be overcompensating for their own deep-rooted insecurities. By highlighting others’ flaws, they may seek to boost their own self-esteem and mask feelings of inadequacy.

    Conclusion:

    The tendency of some individuals to easily find faults in others while failing to see their own flaws is a complex interplay of psychological factors. The self-serving bias, projection, fear of vulnerability, confirmation bias, lack of self-awareness, and overcompensation for insecurities all contribute to this behavior. Understanding these psychological mechanisms can help us navigate interactions with such individuals with empathy and insight, fostering a deeper understanding of human behavior and our own biases. By promoting self-awareness and encouraging constructive feedback, we can work towards fostering a more compassionate and introspective approach to addressing our own faults and the faults we perceive in others.

  • Is Being Genius and Being Wise the Same Thing?

    Is Being Genius and Being Wise the Same Thing?

    Wisdom vs. Genius: Unraveling the Difference

    In a world that often celebrates intellect and brilliance, it’s easy to conflate wisdom with genius. While both traits embody intelligence, they are fundamentally different in their essence and application. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between being wise and being a genius, highlighting why possessing one does not necessarily imply possessing the other.

    Wisdom: The Art of Understanding Life

    Wisdom is the culmination of life experiences, introspection, and the ability to discern the deeper meaning behind situations and events. It is a profound understanding of human nature, empathy, and the complexities of life. Wisdom comes with age, as individuals learn from their successes, failures, and interactions with others. It is not solely derived from knowledge but from the application of that knowledge to navigate life’s challenges with discernment and compassion.

    Wise individuals possess emotional intelligence, recognizing the impact of their actions and words on others. They offer invaluable advice and guidance, drawing from their own experiences and insights. Wisdom enables individuals to approach problems with a balanced perspective, considering various factors and potential consequences. It fosters empathy and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of all beings, leading to decisions that benefit not only themselves but also the broader community.

    Genius: Brilliance in Knowledge and Innovation

    Genius, on the other hand, is characterized by exceptional intellectual abilities, creativity, and innovation. It is often associated with groundbreaking discoveries, artistic mastery, or unmatched talents in specific fields. Genius may manifest at a young age, showcasing exceptional cognitive abilities or prodigious talents. However, genius can exist across various domains, from science and arts to mathematics and technology.

    Geniuses may excel in their specialized areas but might not necessarily possess the life wisdom that comes with age and experience. Their brilliance may be limited to their expertise, and they may struggle with emotional intelligence or understanding the nuances of complex human interactions. While their intellectual prowess is admirable, genius does not guarantee an inherent understanding of life’s intricacies or the wisdom to navigate its challenges with grace.

    Wisdom and Genius: A Harmonious Union

    While wisdom and genius are distinct traits, they are not mutually exclusive. In some cases, wise individuals may also possess genius-level intellect, combining their profound understanding of life with exceptional cognitive abilities. Such individuals often bring unique perspectives to their fields of expertise, revolutionizing their disciplines with both brilliance and profound insights.

    On the other hand, geniuses can seek guidance from wise mentors or individuals who can provide a broader context for their discoveries and talents. Embracing wisdom can enhance the application of genius, leading to innovations that not only advance their specialized fields but also benefit society as a whole.

    In conclusion, wisdom and genius are two distinct traits that embody intelligence in different ways. While wisdom arises from life experiences, empathy, and understanding, genius showcases exceptional cognitive abilities and talents in specific domains. Recognizing and appreciating the unique qualities of both traits can lead to a harmonious union, fostering innovation with a deeper understanding of life’s complexities. Embrace the wisdom of the ages and the brilliance of genius, for together, they have the power to transform the world.

  • How Traveling Nurtures Personality Growth and Mental Well-being

    How Traveling Nurtures Personality Growth and Mental Well-being

    Have you ever felt the urge to pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and set off on an adventure to unknown destinations? Traveling to different places not only satisfies our wanderlust but also offers unique opportunities for personal growth and enhanced mental well-being. In this article, we will explore how travel can be a powerful tool for tackling personality issues and nurturing our mental health. So, get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery as we unravel the transformative power of travel.

    Broadening Horizons:

    When we step out of our familiar surroundings and immerse ourselves in new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, our perspectives expand. Traveling exposes us to different ways of life, beliefs, and values, challenging our preconceived notions and promoting personal growth. It pushes us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new perspectives, ultimately helping us tackle personality issues by broadening our horizons.

    Embracing Adaptability:

    Traveling often requires adapting to unfamiliar environments, navigating language barriers, and adjusting to unforeseen circumstances. This cultivates resilience and adaptability, valuable traits that can help us tackle personality issues. By learning to adapt to new situations, we become more flexible in dealing with challenges and setbacks in our personal lives.

    Encountering Self-Reflection:

    Stepping away from the daily routines and responsibilities of our lives allows us to engage in self-reflection. Traveling provides moments of solitude, enabling us to reconnect with ourselves and evaluate our values, desires, and aspirations. Through introspection, we gain insights into our personality, identify areas for personal growth, and develop a deeper understanding of our own needs and desires.

    Cultivating Empathy:

    Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures fosters empathy and understanding. By engaging in conversations with locals, trying new foods, and participating in local customs, we expand our capacity for empathy and develop a greater appreciation for the human experience. This increased empathy not only enhances our relationships but also helps us address and overcome personality issues that stem from a lack of understanding or compassion.

    Embracing the Present Moment:

    Traveling encourages us to live in the present moment and savor the experiences we encounter. As we explore new destinations, we become more mindful of our surroundings, fully immersing ourselves in the beauty and uniqueness of each place. This mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment can alleviate stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues while fostering a greater sense of gratitude and joy.

    Take Action

    As you’ve journeyed through the transformative power of travel, it’s time to take action. Plan your weekend trip, set your sights on a destination that ignites your curiosity, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether it’s a short road trip, a hike in nature, or a visit to a vibrant city, make travel a priority in your life. Embrace the opportunities it offers for personal growth, mental well-being, and tackling personality issues head-on. So, pack your bags, seize the adventure, and let travel be your catalyst for positive change.

    Remember, the world is waiting to be explored, and you hold the key to unlock its transformative potential. Plan your weekend trip right away and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Embrace the unknown, immerse yourself in new experiences, and allow travel to nourish your soul. Start your adventure today!

  • Tackling Personality Issues of Schadenfreude and Jealousy

    Tackling Personality Issues of Schadenfreude and Jealousy

    Have you ever found yourself feeling a sense of pleasure when someone else is suffering or experiencing jealousy when others are happy? These emotions may be indicative of deeper personality issues that require attention and introspection. In this article, we will explore why feeling pleasure in others’ agony and experiencing jealousy of their happiness can be telltale signs of underlying problems. We will also discuss strategies for tackling these issues within ourselves and how to deal with individuals who exhibit such behaviors.

    Feeling pleasure in others’ agony, also known as schadenfreude, can be a complex psychological phenomenon. It may stem from unresolved feelings of resentment, low self-esteem, or a lack of empathy. This tendency to derive pleasure from others’ suffering can be harmful not only to the individuals experiencing it but also to their relationships and overall well-being. Recognizing this behavior as a red flag is an important first step towards personal growth and transformation.

    Similarly, experiencing jealousy when others are happy is a common but problematic emotion. It often arises from feelings of insecurity, comparison, or a fear of missing out. Jealousy can poison relationships, hinder personal growth, and prevent individuals from experiencing genuine happiness and contentment. Addressing and overcoming this jealousy is crucial for fostering healthier relationships and improving one’s own mental and emotional well-being.

    To tackle these personality issues, self-reflection is key. Start by examining your own thoughts and emotions when confronted with others’ agony or happiness. Ask yourself why these feelings arise and what underlying insecurities or unresolved issues may be contributing to them. Journaling or seeking professional therapy can also be helpful in gaining deeper insights into your own behavior patterns.

    Building empathy is another important aspect of addressing these personality issues. Practice putting yourself in others’ shoes and genuinely try to understand their experiences and emotions. Cultivate a mindset of compassion and kindness towards others, recognizing that their happiness or suffering does not diminish your own worth or happiness.

    Developing self-confidence and self-esteem is essential in overcoming feelings of pleasure in others’ agony and jealousy of their happiness. Focus on your own accomplishments, strengths, and personal growth rather than constantly comparing yourself to others. Celebrate others’ successes and be genuinely happy for them, knowing that their achievements do not diminish your own value.

    When dealing with individuals who exhibit such behaviors, it’s important to approach them with empathy and understanding. Recognize that their actions may stem from their own insecurities or unresolved issues. Engage in open and honest communication, expressing how their behavior impacts you and others. Encourage them to seek professional help if necessary, as addressing these personality issues may require deeper introspection and therapeutic intervention.

    Setting healthy boundaries is crucial when dealing with individuals who consistently exhibit pleasure in others’ agony or jealousy of their happiness. Protect your own well-being by limiting your interactions with such individuals, especially if their behavior becomes toxic or harmful. Surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who uplift and inspire you.

    In conclusion, recognizing and addressing such personality issues is essential for personal growth and fostering healthier relationships. Take the first step towards change today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

  • The Negative Impact of Choosing Sides on Mental Health

    The Negative Impact of Choosing Sides on Mental Health

    The act of choosing sides can have a significant impact on one’s mental health. Whether it’s a political issue, a personal dispute, or a social matter, taking a side can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even depression. In some cases, choosing sides can create a sense of division and hostility, further exacerbating the negative effects on mental health.

    The negative effects of choosing sides on mental health

    Choosing sides can lead to negative effects on mental health, such as increased stress, anxiety, and depression. When individuals take a strong position on an issue, they may feel pressure to defend their stance, which can cause them to become defensive and argumentative. This can lead to strained relationships and feelings of isolation, which can further exacerbate mental health issues.

    Additionally, choosing sides can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding towards others. This can cause individuals to become closed-minded and unwilling to consider alternative perspectives, which can hinder personal growth and development.

    Studies have shown that people who strongly identify with a particular group or ideology are more likely to experience stress and anxiety when that group or ideology is threatened or challenged. This can lead to a range of negative mental health outcomes, including feelings of isolation, anger, and hopelessness.

    The positive effects of avoiding choosing sides on mental health

    On the other hand, avoiding choosing sides can have positive effects on mental health. By remaining neutral and open-minded, individuals can reduce stress and anxiety associated with defending a position. This can lead to more harmonious relationships and a greater sense of community.

    Furthermore, avoiding choosing sides can lead to increased empathy and understanding towards others. This can foster a greater sense of connection and cooperation, which can lead to personal growth and development.

    The importance of communication and understanding

    Choosing sides can often lead to a breakdown in communication and understanding between opposing groups. This can create a sense of “us vs. them” mentality, which can be damaging to both individuals and society. To promote positive mental health outcomes and foster a sense of unity and cooperation, it’s important to approach disagreements and conflicts with an open mind and a willingness to listen and learn from different perspectives.

    When individuals take the time to understand the other side, they can begin to see things from a unique perspective. This can lead to a greater sense of empathy and understanding towards others, which can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with defending a position.

    The importance of self-reflection

    It’s also important for individuals to take the time to reflect on their own beliefs and values. By doing so, they can gain a better understanding of why they hold certain beliefs and whether they align with their personal values. This can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with defending a position that may not truly align with their personal beliefs.

    Self-reflection can also lead to personal growth and development. By questioning one’s own beliefs and values, individuals can begin to see things from a unique perspective and consider alternative viewpoints. This can lead to a greater sense of empathy and understanding towards others, which can help promote positive mental health outcomes.

    In conclusion…

    Choosing sides can have a significant impact on mental health. While taking a strong position on an issue may feel empowering, it can also lead to negative effects on mental health. By remaining neutral and open-minded, individuals can reduce stress and anxiety and foster more harmonious relationships.

  • The Science of Empathy: How to Understand and Connect with Others

    The Science of Empathy: How to Understand and Connect with Others

    Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It is a crucial component of emotional intelligence and a key factor in building strong relationships. People with high levels of empathy are often seen as kind, compassionate and understanding, qualities that make them good friends, partners and co-workers.

    However, empathy is not a fixed trait. Just like any other skill, it can be developed and improved with practice. Here are some ways to increase your empathy and become better at connecting with others:

    Practice Active Listening

    Active listening is a technique that involves paying full attention to what the other person is saying. It involves making eye contact, nodding, and repeating back what you heard to show that you are engaged and interested. Active listening helps build trust and creates a sense of safety and comfort, making it easier for the other person to open up and share their thoughts and feelings.

    Get Out of Your Own Head

    Empathy starts with a shift in perspective. When we are able to step outside of our own thoughts and feelings, we become more attuned to the thoughts and feelings of others. This shift can be as simple as asking questions and taking an interest in the experiences and perspectives of others.

    Embrace Emotion

    Emotions are contagious, and they play a crucial role in empathy. When we are open to feeling and experiencing emotions, we become more empathetic and are better able to connect with others. To increase your emotional intelligence, try to identify your emotions and the emotions of others, and then find ways to manage them in a healthy and productive manner.

    Put Yourself in Their Shoes

    Empathy is often thought of as putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. This exercise can help you better understand the emotions and experiences of others. To practice this, try to imagine what it would be like to be in someone else’s situation. This helps you understand the thoughts and feelings that they might be experiencing and helps you connect with them on a deeper level.

    Seek Out Diversity

    Diversity is a great way to expand your empathy. When we are surrounded by people from different backgrounds and cultures, we are exposed to a wider range of perspectives and experiences. This helps us become more understanding and tolerant of others and helps us connect with people who are different from us.

    Practice Gratitude

    Gratitude is a powerful tool for building empathy. When we focus on the good things in our lives and express gratitude for them, we become more aware of the good things in the lives of others. This helps us connect with others and appreciate their experiences, making us more empathetic.

    Practice Compassion

    Compassion is a key component of empathy. It involves feeling concerned for others and a desire to help relieve their suffering. To practice compassion, try to imagine what it would be like to be in someone else’s situation, and then focus on ways you can help them. This helps you connect with others and understand their experiences on a deeper level.

    In conclusion, empathy is a crucial component of emotional intelligence and an important factor in building strong relationships. It is a skill that can be developed and improved with practice.

  • 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.

  • 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 Dark Side of Emotions: How “Hurt” Sentiments Fuel Injustice and Division

    The Dark Side of Emotions: How “Hurt” Sentiments Fuel Injustice and Division

    As Indians, we often judge people and things based on appearances alone, without fully understanding the situation. Our brains are wired to make quick conclusions. But when it comes to caste or religion, our perceptions can change in a dramatic way. We may suddenly feel compelled to defend our own caste or religion, even if we are not directly involved. This can lead to taking things personally and not being able to let go until the situation subsides.

    Recently, there were incidents in the state of Haryana involving the blocking of roads and railways, aggressive attacks causing damage to public property, theft from ATMs, and the setting of shops and malls on fire, all in response to the “Jat Agitation” demand for reservation. The national media was covering these events extensively.

    I wrote a Facebook post condemning the incidents and the demand for reservation by the Jats, who are known for being royal and rich, but are neither socially nor economically backward. To my surprise, some of my Facebook friends who are Jats started defending and justifying the protests. One of them even called me to ask if I was following a politician who was speaking out against the demand for reservation. I told them that I don’t have to follow anyone to see that what was happening was wrong and to speak out against it.

    What was interesting was that these friends who were defending the riots were not even participating in the protests. Some of them had previously spoken out against the idea of reservation. But now that their caste was demanding reservation, they suddenly had a change of heart.

    There were a few who spoke out against the riots, regardless of their caste, but the majority of people criticized them for bringing shame to their caste, as if the agitators weren’t already doing that. It’s difficult to understand how anyone could justify blocking a road, let alone the more aggressive acts that took place, just to demand reservation for one caste. It causes inconvenience to innocent people who have no part in this reservation controversy.

    Why is it that our caste or religion is more important to us than humanity and the greater good of people? I can’t help but wonder what would happen if people from ISIS or other terrorist organizations were of the same caste as my friends. They would likely cry every time a terrorist was hanged by the law and protest against it, just like they did for the reservation.

    This is why politicians are able to win elections through their dirty politics of caste and religion. It’s our emotional attachment to our caste or religion that is the biggest obstacle to our country’s development. We are the biggest fools in this conspiracy to keep people divided by caste and religion, but one thing is for sure – we won’t change.