Sachin Sharma

Tag: Self-care

  • 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 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.