Sachin Sharma

Tag: Life

All that comes free with life.

  • Stuck in a Rut? Here’s How to Get Moving Again

    Stuck in a Rut? Here’s How to Get Moving Again

    We’ve all been there: feeling stuck in a rut, feeling unfulfilled and uninspired, and not knowing how to move forward. It’s a frustrating and sometimes overwhelming feeling, but it’s important to remember that it’s a common experience, and that there are ways to get moving again.

    First and foremost, it’s important to identify the source of the rut. Is it a specific aspect of your job or personal life that is causing dissatisfaction? Or is it a general feeling of dissatisfaction with your current circumstances? Once you’ve identified the source, it’s easier to come up with a plan of action.

    One effective strategy for getting out of a rut is to set small, achievable goals. Instead of trying to overhaul your entire life at once, start with small, manageable steps. This could mean setting a goal to take a walk every day, or to volunteer once a week. The key is to start with something small and manageable, so that you can build momentum and see progress.

    Another effective strategy is to try something new. Whether it’s taking a class, learning a new hobby, or trying a new activity, introducing something new into your life can help shake things up and give you a renewed sense of purpose. It’s also a great way to meet new people, which can help you expand your social circle and gain a fresh perspective on things.

    It’s also important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure to prioritize self-care, whether that means taking time to exercise, meditate, or simply take a relaxing bath. It’s also important to make sure you’re getting enough sleep and eating well, as these things can have a big impact on your overall mood and well-being.

    Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. Whether it’s talking to a therapist or counselor, or seeking advice from a friend or family member, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this alone.

    In conclusion, being stuck in a rut can be a difficult and frustrating experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s a common experience, and that there are ways to get moving again. By identifying the source of the rut, setting small, achievable goals, trying something new, taking care of yourself and reaching out for help, you can start to make progress and find your way out of the rut.

  • Why People Resist Self-Help: Understanding the Negative Perception

    Why People Resist Self-Help: Understanding the Negative Perception

    What was the first ever non-fiction book or video you came across in your adulthood? I am sure for majority of you, it would be ‘self help’.

    Life isn’t easy – from fulfilling your basic needs to living that life you always dream of, nothing comes served on a platter. You often turn to the already successful to learn the ‘secret’ and apply it to your own life. Then there are self help gurus who are there to help, so you choose one whom you find the most relatable and start consuming their content – books, blogs and videos. And just when you start feeling that you finally have the roadmap to end all your problems and start implementing their advice, you start feeling stuck.

    Most of their advice that seems practical on paper is either too generalized to make an impact on your issues or they are so specific that it is hard to believe that they will work for you too. Eventually you find yourself in a vicious loop that offer you nothing but guilt and anxiety. And then one day, when you are throwing that book away because it is telling you to do the same things you have heard of at least a thousand times before, you realize that life wasn’t that bad when you were far away from this shit. No wonder you hate self help!

    Why Self Help Content Doesn’t Help

    Although they claim to help you, but sooner or later you find out all they wanted was to sell you stuff. Now you are miserable and broke because your ‘investment’ yielded zero returns. And it completely makes sense – why would anyone help you for free if they are not getting anything out of it?

    Another thing they ‘fail’ to tell you is that one key doesn’t fit all locks .Something that worked for one successful entrepreneur won’t work for every single person on the planet. Not everybody is looking to be Elon Musk or Brad Pitt, we already have those! All you want is to be a better version of yourself without changing who you truly are. Who wants to be an impostor, right?

    Generalized and Oversimplified

    Their advice often looks something like this:

    1. Identify a problem
    2. Offer a solution
    3. Monetize your solution
    4. Voila! You’re a millionaire!

    You would have these follow-up questions:

    1. How do I identify the exact problems I have a solution to?
    2. Who do I offer the solution to? People are not coming to me with their problems.
    3. How do I monetize the solution to petty problems that everybody can find a solution to? Should I also start selling useless self help content like those ‘gurus’?

    Ask these questions and you will hear the same reply – YOU have to figure these out.

    Wow, all those big promises and this is what you leave me with? It’s like you go to someone with a problem, they explain the problem back to you and then ask you to figure out a solution. Anybody would hate self help after such an experience.

    The Solution: Look for Action and Not Advice

    Instead of looking at your own problems from a philosophical and psychological point of view, which are not completely useless by the way, it is better if you seek an action plan.

    When you are about to pay someone to help you help yourself, make sure their advice is tailored to your needs and not the masses. Clearly, that bestselling book is not what you are looking for. Instead you need a step by step guide on how to get from point A to point B.

    The next logical thing would be to make sure the person or entity who gets paid can be held accountable. If you are not getting the results, make sure you get all your money back if not wasted time.

    And lastly, don’t let them be infallible.

    Remember that pseudoscience based book called ‘The Secret‘ that claimed your thoughts become your reality? And when they don’t, the blame goes on you for not believing your thoughts. Don’t fall for that shit!

  • The Productivity Dilemma: Why Productive Tasks are So Damn Hard

    The Productivity Dilemma: Why Productive Tasks are So Damn Hard

    Have you ever found yourself binge-watching Netflix for hours, yet struggling to write even one sentence of an assignment? Have you ever caught yourself aimlessly scrolling through social media instead of tackling that to-do list? Why is it so much easier to get lost in the world of distraction rather than doing what we know will help us be more productive?

    The answer lies in dopamine.

    Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter that helps control our level of excitement and interest in things. It helps us focus and work hard by making things seem more intriguing. So, the activities that we know are good for us often don’t seem interesting because they don’t give us a dopamine boost.

    But there’s hope! Here are some ways to improve your dopamine production and get more done:

    Mind Your Meals

    What we eat has a huge impact on our productivity levels. Make sure you include foods high in proteins, magnesium, and tyrosine such as dairy, fish, cheese, nuts, beans, and lentils in your diet. Avoid processed foods and limit your intake of coffee and alcohol.

    Pair a healthy diet with regular exercise and a good night’s sleep, and you’ll be unstoppable.

    Stay Away from Distractions

    Indulging in addictive activities such as gaming, social media, or watching short videos (reels) during breaks can cause a dopamine surge. This makes it even harder to get motivated for less engaging activities like reading.

    To avoid this, turn off notifications for your apps and limit your social media time to once a day for a set duration. Digital detox and meditation can also help keep your dopamine levels in check.

    Take an hour each day to just sit and be with yourself. In this quiet time, let your mind reset and recharge.

    Mix Productive Tasks with Enjoyable Ones

    If possible, listen to your favorite music while working on an assignment, or enjoy a snack you love while tackling a difficult project. This tricks your brain into thinking “this is okay” and helps you stay focused and calm.

    Avoid multitasking when you have too much on your plate. Instead, make a to-do list and work through it one task at a time. The sense of accomplishment you get from crossing each task off will keep your motivation levels high.

    Minimize distractions by putting on noise-cancelling earphones and disconnecting from the world until you’re done. This will help you work faster and more efficiently.

    Say No to Drugs

    Drugs and alcohol give us a false sense of pleasure by artificially boosting our dopamine levels. This high is temporary, and when it wears off, our dopamine levels crash, leaving us feeling down.

    Sticking to a healthy lifestyle will pay off in the long run by boosting your productivity levels. Sure, it’s okay to have fun during breaks, but keeping your mind focused and calm will help you achieve more in the end.

    A 7-Day Dopamine Detox: How It Changed My Life

    I started the year with a 7-day dopamine detox, and you can check out my experience in this video:

    In conclusion, while distractions may seem more interesting in the moment, choosing a healthy lifestyle is what will make you more productive in the long run. By keeping your mind calm and focused, you’ll achieve more and feel better too.

  • The 4 Types of Toxic People You Need to Stay Away From

    The 4 Types of Toxic People You Need to Stay Away From

    Toxic people come in all shapes and sizes and can creep into your life without you even realizing it. They can be your friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, or even strangers on the subway. Some are easy to spot, while others are more subtle in their toxic behavior. But, the good news is, you can identify them and take action to protect yourself.

    As we step into the new year, it’s time to leave toxic people behind and make room for positivity and growth. In this article, we’ll be discussing four types of toxic people you need to stay away from and why.

    1. The Possessive Type

    These are the people who initially seem caring and concerned, but as time goes on, their true colors show. They want nothing more than to control every aspect of your life, which stems from their own insecurities. They disguise their control tactics as concern for your well-being, but deep down, they know they can’t survive without you. They try to isolate you from your loved ones and make you dependent on them.

    While co-dependence is a necessary component of a healthy relationship, it’s important to remember that you need to be in charge of your life. If someone else is making decisions for you, it’s time to show them the door.

    2. The Jealous Type

    These people appear friendly on the surface, but they won’t hesitate to bring you down behind your back. They constantly criticize you, find ways to undermine you, and make your life miserable. They often originate from a lack of confidence in their own abilities or jealousy towards your achievements.

    It’s important to keep your distance from these types of toxic people, as they can take advantage of you when you’re most vulnerable. Keep in mind that their jealousy is a reflection of their own weakness, and you don’t need them in your life.

    3. The Intrusive Type

    These toxic people can be found among friends, relatives, or even family members. They have no respect for your privacy and want to know everything about your life. They offer unwanted advice and are always in your business, even when it’s not their concern.

    To deal with these types of toxic people, you need to be firm and set clear boundaries. If you don’t, they will take advantage of your kindness and bring you down with their constant chatter and intrusion.

    4. The Competitive Type

    Life is not a race, and it’s important to remember that everyone is on their own unique path towards their own unique destination. But, being surrounded by competitive people can lead to you comparing your life to others and hinder your progress.

    In a workplace filled with competitiveness, it can be hard to focus on your own goals and be creative. It’s better to look for a supportive work environment where colleagues are more collaborative and less competitive. This will help you grow your skills and establish yourself as a valuable team player.

    In conclusion, these four types of toxic people can easily be misinterpreted as positive influences, but it’s important to recognize their toxic behavior and take action to protect yourself. As you start the new year, leave these toxic people behind and make room for positivity and growth in your life.

  • Why Going Non-Toxic is Hard and How to Make it Easier

    Why Going Non-Toxic is Hard and How to Make it Easier

    Going non-toxic can be a big change, but it’s worth it for your health and the environment. You may have to do some research, spend a little extra money, and learn new things, but it’ll pay off in the long run.

    Let’s face it, not all products are created equal. Some of the stuff we bring into our homes can be downright dangerous. Chemicals in cleaning agents, cooking utensils, and other household items have been linked to illnesses like cancer, allergies, diabetes, and lung disease. And the sad part is, some of these illnesses are untreatable once you have them.

    It’s not just about our health either. These toxic products are also harmful to the environment. The toxic waste released during production can pollute the planet.

    So, why aren’t we all jumping on the non-toxic bandwagon? It’s not that simple. Firstly, it’s hard to know what products are truly safe. There are so many clever ads and labels out there that it’s difficult to tell what’s real and what’s not. Secondly, non-toxic products can be more expensive. The production costs are higher because the raw materials and manufacturing processes are more complex.

    But here’s the good news. You can make it easier. One way to save money is to buy local. Local businesses often have lower marketing costs, which means they can offer the same non-toxic products for less. Plus, their products have a shorter shelf life, which makes stock management easier. And who knows, the quality might even be better than the big international brands.

    Making the switch from conventional to non-toxic products can be challenging. You may have to get used to using new products, but the benefits far outweigh the hassle. Think of it like this – it’s a small inconvenience now to avoid being on medication for the rest of your life.

    Finding non-toxic alternatives can also be a challenge. But there are plenty of resources available to help you. Look for recipes for making things like natural toothpaste, hair conditioners, and cleaning agents. There are tons of YouTube channels, Reddit threads, and health blogs that offer great information. Just grab your phone and start searching.

    Take it one step at a time and don’t be afraid to experiment. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can make your home a healthier, safer place. And in the end, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re doing everything you can to live a long and healthy life.

  • The Irony of Success: Why People With Better Ideas Don’t Always Succeed

    The Irony of Success: Why People With Better Ideas Don’t Always Succeed

    Have you ever met someone who seemed to lack intelligence yet was incredibly successful? On the flip side, have you also known people with amazing ideas who seem to struggle in life? It’s easy to blame success or failure on luck, but what if we could uncover the real reasons behind these disparities?

    The key to changing the status quo is to start by admitting that you may be doing something wrong and then carefully analyzing the difference between your habits and those of the successful individuals. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the common reasons why people with great ideas don’t always succeed, and what you can do to overcome these obstacles.

    Letting Perfectionism Take Over

    At first glance, perfectionism might seem like a positive trait, but it can actually hold you back. Perfectionists tend to spend too much time fixing minor details that don’t have a significant impact on the final outcome. It’s important to understand that these habits stem from an obsession to do things perfectly, rather than doing what’s required and then some. Remember, the goal is to deliver results, not perfection.

    Being a Cynical Self-Critique

    While self-reflection and self-critique are important for improving your work, it’s possible to take this too far. For example, if a client asks for a 500-word article, spending an entire day writing the best piece may not be worth it if it results in poor time management skills. Sometimes, it’s best to trust an editor or reviewer to help improve your work.

    Letting Self-Doubt Hinder Action

    A mind full of ideas can also be a mind full of self-doubt. Constantly questioning the feasibility of your ideas can render them useless. Instead of waiting until you’ve learned everything to start working, embrace the learning process and start taking action. You’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish by starting small and building from there.

    Fear of the Unknown

    Our minds naturally try to protect us from facing our fears, but this protection can hold us back. Doing something new can be scary and leave us vulnerable to failure and embarrassment. However, the best way to overcome this fear is to face it head on. Remember, it’s okay to fail and it’s okay to make mistakes. What’s important is to learn from these experiences and keep moving forward.

    Bad Implementation

    Idea generation is just the first step, the real challenge is in implementing them effectively. This requires good communication skills, practical knowledge, and the ability to turn your ideas into reality. The way you communicate your ideas can make or break their success. A good example of this is a great novel that was turned into a bad movie due to poor communication.

    Lack of Practicality

    Some ideas may sound great on paper, but they may not be feasible in the real world. For example, having a romantic dinner at the top of the Burj Khalifa sounds amazing, but it may not be possible to get the necessary permissions. The hardest part is getting started, but once you do, it becomes easier to build and grow from there. Don’t be afraid to experiment, observe, and revise your ideas to make them more practical.

    In conclusion, there is only so much you can learn without taking action. So, the next time you have a great idea, take the time to plan out how you will bring it to life. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve when you turn your ideas into reality.

  • 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.