Sachin Sharma

Tag: Life

All that comes free with life.

  • 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

  • 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!

  • My Childhood Excuse That Became a Running Joke

    My Childhood Excuse That Became a Running Joke

    Growing up in 2006, my friend Vinesh (or Vinna, as we liked to call him) and I were two young and carefree teenagers who just wanted to enjoy life. Our 12th board exams were fast approaching, and we had to attend Math tuition every day to improve our weakest subject. Our ride was a daily 4 km bicycle journey from our homes to the tuition center.

    Our parents were strict, always reminding us that we had to study hard for the board exams. But for us, being stuck inside with books felt like a prison sentence. So, whenever we could, we would leave home early and return late, just to spend more time outside of the house. We lived in neighboring areas, so our daily commute was always a joint one.

    On the way back home, we would pass by a railway crossing that was often closed to vehicles due to the high frequency of trains on that route. However, being impatient young Indians, we would cross it on our bicycles without any trouble. We would even stop our bikes at the crossing and watch the trains go by, debating on their estimated speeds. Sometimes, we would wait for one or two more trains to pass, just so we could extend our discussions a little longer.

    One day, we got carried away and were so late getting back home that it was already dark. When my parents asked why I was late, I quickly came up with the first excuse that popped into my head: “The railway crossing post was closed for too long. Even between the trains, they didn’t open it. That’s why I am so late.”

    To my surprise, my parents seemed to believe me. The next day, I told Vinna about my clever excuse and how I had managed to avoid trouble. But before I could finish my story, he pointed out the obvious flaw: “We were on bicycles, you idiot. We could have crossed the post even if it had been closed for real. Why would we just wait and watch the trains?”

    I was stunned by my own stupidity and couldn’t believe that my parents hadn’t noticed the flaw in my excuse. Vinna and I laughed and laughed about my foolishness until our stomachs ached. To this day, whenever we talk about that incident, we can’t help but laugh.

    Those really were the days! A time when we were carefree, fearless, and just enjoying the ride. I will always cherish the memories of that time, and the running joke that was born from my childhood excuse.

  • Apology 101: What Not to Do When Owning Up to Your Mistakes

    Apology 101: What Not to Do When Owning Up to Your Mistakes

    Apologizing isn’t always easy, but it’s an important part of being a responsible adult. Unfortunately, some people still don’t know how to do it properly. If you’re guilty of any of these apology faux pas, it’s time to take note and step up your game.

    First things first, never apologize via messaging. Sure, it’s convenient, but it’s also impersonal and can come off as insincere. If you’ve made a mistake, be a grown-up and face the person you’re apologizing to in person.

    Another big no-no is apologizing through a mutual friend. This is just a coward’s way out. When you apologize in person, your expressions and body language can speak louder than words, so don’t hide behind a third party.

    Some people like to give a long explanation before they apologize, but this is a bad idea. If you’re apologizing, it means you know you’ve done something wrong, so just own up to it and say you’re sorry. No need for a long-winded explanation.

    Another mistake people make is apologizing as if it’s a favor. This is just arrogant and sends the message that you don’t really think you did anything wrong. Remember, apologizing doesn’t make you any less of a person.

    Last but not least, don’t be the person who apologizes in the next lifetime. If you’ve made a mistake, don’t wait around to apologize. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the other person will have moved on and won’t accept your apology.

    In conclusion, apologizing is an essential part of being a responsible adult. It’s important to know how to do it properly, and avoid common mistakes. Remember, if you’ve made a mistake, own up to it and apologize in person with a sincere heart.

  • Finding Innocence in a Cynical World: Why It Matters

    Finding Innocence in a Cynical World: Why It Matters

    I was on my way to a work meeting and had some time to kill, so I decided to stand on the side of the road and people watch. As I was standing there, I couldn’t help but think about all the meetings I’ve had that haven’t gone as well as I’d hoped. I was feeling pretty cynical and not too confident about the meeting I was about to have.

    But then something funny happened. A little girl, probably around 7 or 8 years old, appeared next to me. She looked worried and confused. I ignored her at first, but then she touched my hand and asked if I saw anything. I looked where she was pointing and saw that a bird had pooped on her shoulder. I couldn’t help but laugh, and the little girl looked embarrassed.

    She asked me to clean it off with water from her bottle, which I did. But it didn’t really do the trick. She looked worried again and asked how she was going to clean it. I suggested using a piece of paper, but she said her teacher would get mad if she tore something out of her notebook. So, I looked around and found an empty medicine box and tore off a piece of hard paper from it. I cleaned her shoulder and she thanked me before running off to meet her mom.

    That little interaction made me feel so much better. It was a reminder that even in a cynical world, a little bit of innocence can go a long way. And as a result, I walked into that meeting feeling more in control and positive. And it went really well. So, thanks little girl for reminding me to keep things in perspective.

    It’s easy to get caught up in the cynicism of the world, especially when it comes to work and meeting new people. But sometimes, all it takes is a small moment of innocence to remind us that there’s still good in the world and that we should never lose hope.

    In this case, it was a small schoolgirl who reminded me of this. Her innocence made me realize that I was taking everything too seriously. It was a small moment, but it had a big impact on my day.

    It’s important to remember that these moments of innocence can be found anywhere and at any time. Sometimes, all it takes is a small change in perspective to see them. And when we do, it can completely change our mood and outlook on life.

    So the next time you’re feeling cynical and down, try to find a moment of innocence in your day. It might just be the thing that brings a smile to your face and helps you see the world in a different light. And who knows, it might even make your meeting or your day go a little better.

  • The Truth About Love: 6 Cultural Misconceptions

    The Truth About Love: 6 Cultural Misconceptions

    Love is a beautiful thing, but it can also be complicated. There are many cultural misconceptions about love that can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment. These misconceptions can come from movies, TV shows, books, and even our own families and friends. It’s important to understand these misconceptions so that you can have a more realistic view of love and relationships.

    1. The Myth of Automatically Finding “The One”

    One of the most common myths about love is the existence of “the one” for everyone. This is a myth that can be harmful to relationships because it creates unrealistic expectations. People often believe that they will immediately know when they meet “the one” who is going to be their soulmate. While it is possible to feel an instant attraction to someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are the right person for you. Attraction is usually just sexual or romantic in nature and choosing a life partner is much more complex than just feeling romantic about someone.

    To truly know if someone is right for you, you need to get to know them on a deeper level. You need to understand their values, goals, and personality. You need to see how they interact with your family and friends. You need to see how they handle difficult situations and if they have the strength of character to go the distance with you.

    In addition, it’s important to understand that nobody is perfect. Even if you find someone who seems to be perfect for you, they will have flaws and imperfections just like everyone else. It’s important to accept and love them for who they are, warts and all.

    2. The Myth of “Meant To Be”

    Another common myth about love is that it is something that brings two people together who are “meant to be” together. This is not true. Love is a mutual decision between two people. It takes a lot of effort and compromise to make it work. The myth of “meant to be” can create the idea that if two people are meant to be together, every problem that arises will be easily resolved. This is not the case in real life. Research shows that 67% of conflicts between couples do not get resolved. Problems need to be addressed and worked through in

    order to make a relationship successful. It’s important to understand that love takes work and it’s not always easy.

    3. The Myth of Immediate Familiarity

    Another myth is that if you feel like you have known someone for a long time, even if you’re meeting them for the first time, they must be the one for you. This is not always the case. Sometimes people just have a lot in common and it can create a sense of familiarity, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they are the one for you. It’s important to take the time to get to know someone before jumping to conclusions about a potential relationship.

    4. The Myth of the Love Story in Movies

    Movies and TV shows often depict love as a fairy tale with a happy ending. They show us a dreamy picture of love that can create unrealistic expectations. In reality, love is not always easy and it’s important to understand that the love stories in movies are not always reflective of real life.

    5. The Myth of Love Being All Butterflies and Rainbows

    Love is a wonderful thing, but it’s not always butterflies and rainbows. There will be tough times and challenges to overcome. It’s important to understand that love takes work and it’s not always easy. But if you’re willing to put in the effort, it can be amazing.

    6. The Myth of Love Should Be Easy

    Love takes work, but it’s worth it. It’s not always easy, but if you’re willing to put in the effort, it can be amazing.

    It’s important to understand that love is a journey, not a destination. Have realistic expectations and understand that love takes work. Everyone’s journey with love is different and unique. Love is a complex and nuanced thing so approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.

    Always remember that you are in charge of your own happiness and well-being. You can’t rely on someone else to fulfill all your emotional needs. Have a sense of self-worth and independence.

    You need to understand that not everyone will have the same experience of love or that everyone will have the same definition of love. Everyone is different and it’s important to respect and honor that.

    Having realistic expectations can help you navigate the complexities of relationships and find the love that is right for you.

  • 10 Things Holding You Back From Happiness and How to Let Go

    10 Things Holding You Back From Happiness and How to Let Go

    Are you feeling stuck and unable to find happiness in your life? You might be holding on to things that are preventing you from reaching your full potential. Here are 10 things that might be holding you back from happiness and how to let them go:

    1. Let go of trying to please everyone

    Often times, we find ourselves doing things to please others, whether it’s going along with plans they’ve made for us or living up to their expectations. However, this can be detrimental to our own happiness and well-being. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, people who prioritize others’ needs over their own report lower levels of happiness and well-being. It’s important to remember that you deserve to live your life on your own terms and make choices that align with your own values and goals.

    2. Let go of procrastination

    Procrastination can be a major obstacle to achieving our goals and finding happiness. When we put things off, we miss out on opportunities and may end up feeling stressed and overwhelmed. According to a study by the University of London, people who procrastinate have higher levels of stress and lower overall well-being. To combat this, try setting small, attainable goals and taking action towards them immediately. Break large tasks into manageable chunks and create a schedule to stay on track.

    3. Let go of fear and pressure

    Fear and pressure can hold us back from taking risks and trying new things. They can also cause us to feel anxious and stressed. A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who experience high levels of stress have a greater risk of developing chronic health conditions. To overcome this, try practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and meditation. Additionally, remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes and that failure is a necessary part of growth and learning.

    4. Let go of self-loathing thoughts

    Self-loathing thoughts are negative and harmful to your mental and emotional well-being. These thoughts can make you feel worthless, undeserving of love, and not good enough. However, it’s important to remember that everyone makes mistakes, and no one is perfect. Instead of focusing on your flaws, focus on your strengths and the things that you have accomplished. Surround yourself with positive people who will lift you up and support you. Also, practice self-compassion, which means being kind and understanding towards yourself.

    5. Let go of the past

    Holding onto past experiences can prevent you from moving forward and enjoying the present. The past is gone and can’t be changed, so it’s important to let go of old grudges and regrets. Instead, focus on the present moment and make the most of it. Practice mindfulness and gratitude, which can help you to appreciate the present moment and let go of the past.

    6. Let go of perfectionism

    Perfectionism is the belief that everything must be perfect, and anything less is unacceptable. This mindset can cause a lot of stress and anxiety, and prevent you from enjoying the present moment. Instead, focus on progress and learning from your mistakes. Remember that making mistakes is a natural part of life, and it’s okay to not be perfect.

    7. Let go of holding grudges

    Holding grudges takes up a lot of mental energy and can lead to negative emotions like anger and resentment. Holding grudges can also lead to physical health problems such as increased blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease. Instead, practice forgiveness and let go of grudges. Forgiveness can lead to feelings of peace and happiness.

    8. Let go of comparisons

    Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Everyone has their own unique journey and it’s important to focus on your own progress and not compare yourself to others. Instead, celebrate your own achievements and be proud of who you are.

    9. Let go of toxic relationships

    Being in a toxic relationship can lead to feelings of unhappiness and low self-worth. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Let go of relationships that bring negativity and drama into your life. It may be difficult, but it will be worth it in the long run.

    10. Let go of negativity

    Negative thoughts and attitudes can lead to feelings of unhappiness and depression. Let go of negative thoughts and focus on the positive things in your life. Surround yourself with positivity and practice gratitude. This will help you to see the good in every situation and lead to a happier life.

    Happiness is a state of mind and it’s important to let go of things that hold us back from achieving it. This allows us to open ourselves up to new opportunities and experiences that will lead to a happier and more fulfilled life. Remember to always put yourself first and trust in your abilities and dreams.

  • Dream Big: How to Create a Vision and Achieve the Life You Want

    Dream Big: How to Create a Vision and Achieve the Life You Want

    Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions and not really sure where you’re headed? It’s easy to follow the crowd and do what everyone else is doing, but what if you could have your own plan and make your own path? That’s where creating a vision comes in!

    A vision is a clear and specific idea of what you want to achieve in the future. It gives you a sense of direction and purpose, and helps you stay motivated and focused on what’s important to you. Having a vision can also help you make better decisions, set more meaningful goals, and achieve more in life.

    According to a study by the University of Scranton, people who set clear and specific goals are more likely to achieve them than those who don’t. The study also found that people who set goals are more likely to feel satisfied with their lives, and have higher levels of self-esteem and well-being. Another study by the American Psychological Association found that having a sense of purpose in life is associated with better mental health and well-being, as well as a lower risk of depression and anxiety.

    Creating a vision for your life can be a fun and exciting process. Start by thinking about what you truly want in life and what you want to be known for. Think about your values, passions, and strengths, and how you can use them to make a positive impact in the world. Don’t be afraid to dream big and think outside the box. The sky’s the limit!

    Once you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, it’s time to turn your vision into a plan. Break your vision down into smaller and more manageable goals, and set deadlines for achieving them. Set both short-term and long-term goals, and make sure they are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.

    It’s also important to be realistic about your goals and not to set yourself up for failure. Remember that achieving a big vision takes time, effort, and persistence. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t achieve your goals right away or if you encounter setbacks along the way. Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.

    One of the most important things to remember when creating a vision is that it should be something that makes you happy, fulfilled and not what society or others want you to do. A study by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that people who pursue their passions and interests are more likely to be happy and satisfied with their lives than those who don’t. The study also found that people who pursue their passions are more likely to have better mental health, higher self-esteem, and more positive relationships.

    Finally, it’s important to remember that your vision should be flexible and open to change. Life is unpredictable, and you may encounter new opportunities or challenges that you didn’t anticipate. Be open to new possibilities and be willing to adjust your vision as needed.

    Additionally, it’s important to take care of your mental health along the way. A study from the University of Liverpool found that people who engage in positive activities and have good mental health are more likely to set and achieve goals. This can include things like exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep, and practicing mindfulness.

    In summary, creating a vision for your life and setting specific, measurable goals can greatly increase your chances of achieving what you want in life. By being open to change and taking care of your mental health, you will be able to turn your vision into a reality. So go ahead, dream big and make it happen!

  • The Secret to Being Happy: Why Being Selfish is a Good Thing

    The Secret to Being Happy: Why Being Selfish is a Good Thing

    We all want to be seen as nice and helpful people. We do things for others and try to be selfless. But have you ever stopped to think, why do we want to be seen as selfless? And why does it make us so happy? The truth is, there’s no such thing as being completely selfless. We do things because they make us happy or boost our self-esteem. So, why not embrace our selfish side and be happy about it?

    Sometimes we feel like we have to prove ourselves to others, and it can be a lot of pressure. But what if we didn’t have to prove anything to anyone? What if we could just be ourselves and not care about what others think? That would be pretty great, right? And when we stop trying to prove ourselves to others, we don’t have to brag about all the “selfless” things we do. We can just do them because we want to.

    When we accept that we’re just as selfish as everyone else, we can start valuing ourselves more. And when we value ourselves, we’ll make sure to take care of ourselves and make ourselves happy. And you know what? That’s okay!

    Imagine if you did something nice for someone and they thanked you. Instead of saying “it’s no big deal”, you can say “of course, I’m happy to help” because you know you did it because it made you happy. It’s a win-win situation.

    Being selfish doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It’s all about how we think about it. So, stop trying to be seen as selfless and start embracing your own happiness. It’s okay to want to feel good about yourself, and it’s okay to do things that make you happy. And remember, sometimes it’s better to say nothing at all instead of bragging about how nice you are.

    In short, being selfish is not a bad thing. It’s just a matter of perception and everyone does it. Embrace it, be happy about it and don’t brag about it. People will love you for it.