Lifestyle

Essays & Short StoriesPep Talk
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The Mentor Effect: Why Professionals Can’t Afford to Skip It

Chanakya is one of the finest examples of a mentor in Indian history. His priceless mentorship and strategic guidance gave rise to Chandragupta Maurya — a young boy with potential — who went on to become one of the most prolific rulers of ancient India. Mentorship helps you create that delicate balance – as it is not always that you can make a lucrative profession out of a passion, but a mainstream career can help you keep your passion afloat. If you’re at those crossroads or feeling stuck or unenergetic at work or at a personal stage in life where you want to turn things around, a dedicated mentorship is just the nudge that you need.

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InternationalLifestylePeople & CultureTravel
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From Fire Mountains to Flame Towers: Baku’s Last Impressions (Day 5, 6 & 7)

As Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd.) wraps up his week-long journey through Azerbaijan, the final leg offers candid reflections, hidden gems, and a touch of history. From the scenic yet familiar return to Baku, to exploring the Shirvanshah Palace, Highland Park, and the vibrant Fountain Square, each stop brings its own flavour. The real surprises lie in the fiery wonders of Yanar Dag and the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, alongside the tech-savvy exhibits at the Heydar Aliyev Centre. With practical tips, sharp observations, and signature wit, this travelogue offers both inspiration and information for your next adventure. Säg olun!

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Sitare Zamee Par_Film poster
Essays & Short StoriesFilm, TV, Art & MusicParentingPep Talk
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Sitare Zameen Pe: A Tribute to a Geneticist from my Mentorship Journey

Watching Sitare Zameen Pe with my daughter was a heartwarming experience. The film’s message about accepting children with special needs reminded me of my mentorship with Dr Shruti Bajaj, a leading geneticist. During our writing sessions, she helped me understand Down Syndrome in a clearer, more caring way. Her words stayed with me and echoed through the film, helping me explain the condition to my daughter with kindness and confidence. This piece isn’t a review—it’s a reflection on how stories, both from films and real life, can change how we see, feel, and accept with greater empathy

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Essays & Short StoriesParentingPep Talk
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Parenting Without Guilt: Reclaiming Joy and Self-Worth

Parenting today often feels overwhelming, with constant pressure to do more and be more. Guilt creeps in—whether it’s returning to work, choosing daycare, or simply taking time for yourself. I’ve seen how guilt can silently drain even the most loving, dedicated parents. But guilt doesn’t serve us—it holds us back. Our children need happy, balanced parents, not ones running on empty. That’s why I created the 7-Day Parent-Focused Workshop at The Write Compass—a safe space to rediscover self-worth, set boundaries, and parent with confidence, not sacrifice. Let’s move from guilt to growth—one mindful step at a time.

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Essays & Short StoriesPep Talk
The Lifestyle Portal

Workplace Monitoring: Why Long Work Hours May Not Always Reflect Productivity

Strict time tracking doesn’t always mean better work. Based on real experiences and research, we explore how constant monitoring and micro management affects employees—and how mentorship can help deal with a claustrophobic work environment. When people feel supported and trusted, they do better. Because productivity isn’t just about numbers and hours—it’s about balance, purpose, and feeling valued.

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EducationEssays & Short StoriesHobbyPeople & Culture
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Think Before You Post: Personal, Public & Expert Opinions in the Social Media Era

In an age where every click can go viral, it’s more important than ever to think before you post. This article explores the three types of opinions—personal, public, and expert—and why distinguishing between them is crucial before sharing content online. Social media is a powerful tool, but when misused, it can blur ethical lines, fuel misinformation, and damage reputations. By applying a simple 3-point checklist, both creators and consumers of content can become more mindful and responsible. If you believe in writing with purpose and posting with integrity, this is your compass for navigating the digital world wisely.

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How my 12-year-old is setting healthy boundaries with humour and creativity The DND Effect: When Kids Teach Us Boundaries with a Smile
Essays & Short StoriesParentingPep Talk
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How my 12-year-old is setting healthy boundaries with humour and creativity

Ever seen a cat with an attitude? It claims the best spot in the house, sets its own rules, and somehow, everyone respects its boundaries. My preteen has perfected this feline wisdom—setting up her own playful “DND” sign while sketching, studying, gaming, or lost in music.
This little sign works wonders. She emerges for snack breaks, cracks jokes, shares an unexpected hug, and then retreats back to her world. As a mum, it reminds me to honor her space, fostering trust and understanding.

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Kahani Wali Nani_featured in BBC
Essays & Short StoriesHobbyPep Talk
The Lifestyle Portal

From a Small Interview to BBC Fame: The Journey of Kahani Wali Nani

In 2017, The Lifestyle Portal became the launchpad for an inspiring journey. When I interviewed Sarla Aunty—Kahani Wali Nani—her heartfelt storytelling gained a platform beyond her immediate circle. That feature opened doors to widespread recognition, leading to interviews with BBC and some of India’s leading publications, including SheThePeople, YourStory, and Dainik Bhaskar. What started as a grandmother’s passion for narrating stories blossomed into a movement connecting generations. Her journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and how sincere efforts, paired with the right platform, can create a lasting impact.

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Essays & Short StoriesPep Talk
The Lifestyle Portal

Writing Through Pain: How Mentorship Helped Two Sisters Rebuild Their Lives

Two sisters, grieving the loss of their parents, found solace and strength through mentorship in writing. What began as a way to sharpen their skills evolved into a profound journey of self-discovery. Writing helped them process their emotions, build confidence, and rediscover purpose. As they embraced storytelling, they unlocked new career opportunities and even embarked on a road trip to reconnect with their roots. Their transformation is proof that mentorship isn’t just about learning—it’s about rebuilding, rediscovering, and reclaiming your future.

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Jaywant Patil and his team at Shark Tank India
Essays & Short StoriesLifestylePlanetSuccess Stories
The Lifestyle Portal

From a Simple Email to Shark Tank

In 2014, I received a heartfelt email from Jaywant, an organic farmer near Shirur, Pune, seeking collaboration. His vision aligned perfectly with The Lifestyle Portal’s mission to spotlight changemakers. After featuring his story, I became a loyal subscriber to his A2 Humpy Milk—drawn not just by the taste, but the values behind it. Years later, seeing him on Shark Tank India filled me with pride. Jaywant’s journey from farm to national platform is a testament to purpose, perseverance, and community. This tribute celebrates his inspiring path and wishes him continued success on his special day.

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