Essays & Short Stories

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Little Voices, Big Thoughts: Our Republic Day Classroom Conversations

This Republic Day, we encouraged the children to think beyond their usual textbook lessons. Instead of simply memorising dates, we explored what it truly means to be a Republic and how the Constitution helps us in our everyday lives. Through simple discussions and reflective activities on safety, good habits, kindness, and responsibility, the children linked national values to their own little worlds at home and in the classroom.

Their reflections were innocent, sincere, and thoughtful. Moments like these remind us that nurturing good citizenship begins early, and even a small reflective activity can plant the seeds in them.

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Shloka’s Journey at The Write Compass: A Heartfelt Note from Her and Her Mom

When I started my W.I.N.G.S Program, it felt as though I learnt to fly all over again, despite having over two decades of work behind me. Teaching and mentoring children is never as simple as it looks; we’re planting seeds of courage, creativity, confidence and kindness that go far beyond marks and syllabus. My role truly begins outside the classroom, in how a child handles real‑life situations. Today, I’m sharing beautiful notes of gratitude from my Chief Mischief Officer, Shloka, and her amazing mum, Shikha. Here’s what Shloka has been learning so far — and their heartfelt feedback over the past few months.

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Why Kids Struggle With Reading and Writing Today: Insights From a Writing Mentor

Many parents share that their children just don’t enjoy reading or writing. Today’s children live in a world of instant gratification — quick food, endless scrolling, constant entertainment. But with small, steady habits like early bedtimes, mindful screen use, good books, and gentle journaling, we can help them rebuild focus and rediscover the quiet joy of stories and creativity. Through my mentorship programs at The Write Compass, I’m working with children to slowly bring back their love for reading, writing, and imaginative expression.

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The year that was – 5 Lessons of acceptance, letting go and self-evolution

2025 was the year life invited me to slow down, listen, and begin again. From months of not being able to walk to now running freely with my dog, this journey has been nothing short of transformative. Pain softened me. Letting go strengthened me. And stepping out of my comfort zone helped me rediscover my true worth. Today, through The Write Compass, I get to mentor, create, and make a meaningful difference. If this year taught me anything, it’s that healing and self‑evolution begin the moment we choose ourselves with honesty and courage.

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A Christmas CSR activity that became a reality check

During a Christmas CSR visit to a senior living home in Mumbai, my team and I expected a cheerful day of decorations and cake. What we received instead was a profound lesson in empathy. Elderly residents welcomed us with fragile eyes and eager hearts, sharing stories that stirred our souls. One former bank manager’s quiet words—“Now I’m here”—echoed long after. That day reminded us that titles and appraisals don’t define us. What truly matters is how we treat others. Empathy isn’t a soft skill—it’s a life skill. And sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from the quietest voices.

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Essays & Short StoriesParentingPep Talk
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Teen Loneliness and Social Media: What We’re Getting Wrong

One morning at 7am, my daughter and I overheard a young girl in the lift practising her school speech on social media. She ended with, “We teenagers should be allowed to use social media because it helps us deal with loneliness.” She couldn’t have been more than 12 or 13. That sentence lingered long after the lift doors closed. How is it that in such a “connected” universe, our teens still feel lonely? That moment nudged me to write this piece and create a simple ‘7‑Point Loneliness Self‑Check’ that might help. Read on to explore whether social media is truly a remedy for their loneliness.

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The Power of Writing Mentorship for Children: Emotional Growth Through Expression

Children often carry more inside them than they can express, and their quietness sometimes speaks louder than words. As parents, we try our best, yet we’re left wondering why our child still feels unheard or unsure. Over time, these unspoken emotions turn into negative self‑beliefs that dim their confidence. Through mentorship, I help children slow down, look within, and gently reframe these thoughts. With tools like the Optimistic Octopus, writing exercises, and art‑based reflection, they learn to understand their feelings, celebrate small wins, and build emotional strength—one mindful step at a time.

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Parichay – Pehchaan Khud Se: How One Coach Transforms Lives Through Self-Awareness

In a time of deep transition in my corporate journey, it was Premsai Samanatary who helped me rise. Through her gentle yet firm coaching, I rediscovered my voice, my rhythm, and my purpose. Premsai’s own path—from pain to healing—infuses her work with empathy, depth, and grace. Her signature program Parichay – Pehchaan Khud Se isn’t just coaching; it’s a soulful reconnection with self. This interview is my Guru Dakshina to her—a tribute to a mentor who helped me reclaim my joy, launch The Write Compass, and live a life aligned with creativity, clarity, and conscious choice.

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Why children need mentorship beyond classrooms

Mentorship isn’t just for professionals—it’s something children need too, and much earlier than we think. As a Writing Mentor, I’ve seen how a little nudge, some focused attention, and a safe space to express can do wonders. Children crave individual feedback, not just grades. Through writing, coaching, and art therapy, I help them explore ideas, challenge limiting beliefs, and build emotional resilience. It’s not about rushing—it’s about going deep, slowly and steadily. When we mentor children early, we give them the tools to unlearn, relearn, and grow into confident, thoughtful individuals—ready to face life, not just exams.

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Crafting Change: Truly Tribal’s Inspiring Journey to The Better India & The Logical Indian Recognition

A chance meeting at an award ceremony introduced me to Shweta Menon, founder of Truly Tribal. Her passion for Indian crafts and commitment to supporting rural artisans was inspiring. We connected instantly and later featured her story on The Lifestyle Portal in 2020, celebrating her vision to contemporize Indian handicrafts. Over time, our professional collaboration blossomed into a meaningful friendship. During the pandemic, her online workshops helped revive traditional art forms and supported artisans in need. Seeing Truly Tribal featured on The Better India is a proud moment—and a reminder that purpose, perseverance, and heartfelt work always shine through.

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