Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Thrifty at Fifty | Less is More!

Image courtesy: https://ntemid.com/less-is-more/

As I gingerly step into the new “F” decade with a few niggling pains and turn to look over my stiff shoulders into my younger past, I achingly realize that being fifty does come with its own trappings.

Jokes aside, getting off the ground without using my hands may not be as easy as it was in the earlier decade, however, one good thing is that it has taught me the meaning of being grounded (pun unintended). The importance of a few real things that should truly matter in the scheme of life.

Less is More, in effect, becomes the broader theme of my life in the coming decade.

Whether it is being thankful for the ordinary things/moments in life or being realistic, whether it is understanding the worth of “real” people in my life or the power of just “being me” - there has never been so much clarity about what needs to be valued than now. As they say, with age comes wisdom (and grey hair).

Here are three learnings that thriftily summarise my “less is more” realization from the last decade.

      1. Focussing on my Core. (that is beyond gym speak)

      When it comes to relationships or the people in our lives, and how we spend time with them, I have understood one important thing – Both, depth, and consistency matter.

After going around the sun fifty times, I have understood who my true cheerleaders are. The ones who are my support system, those who believe in me and are genuinely happy for my success and growth. I may be able to count them on my fingertips but that’s completely ok. 

Given the limited time that I have left on this earth (relatively speaking), I would rather give quality time to those few loved ones and invest my time in doing things crucial for both of us (them and me).

Like someone wise said, “Love is not a noun. It is a verb.”.

It is important that I prioritize and focus on my core and show up for them consistently, and fully, through my actions. After all, this core is what makes life worth living!

Little by little, I have also begun to understand the meaning of focus and the joy of “flow”!

And that’s something this attention-deficit human will be learning to practice and improve in the coming decade.

2.   I am not just my Job Title (and LinkedIn profile!)

      Two books I read a couple of years back, shifted my perspective and introduced me to the concept of Portfolio Life. That is leading a life that goes beyond our identity printed on a business card or published on our LinkedIn profile.

      We humans tend to get too attached to our job titles. And given the current turbulent times, when that job identity is taken away, many are left distressed. It leaves a huge void in life. 

       A case in point is COVID-19 rudely awakening us to this possibility a few years ago.

      The job title is just the work we do and not who we are! They are two separate and distinct things. Outside our work identity, the quality of life we lead also matters. 

      What is the meaning of a successful professional life when one cannot be with near and dear ones when they need us the most? What is the worth of a C-suite title when one cannot invest in self-care, family time, or hobbies?

      Not to say that one should not aspire for professional success. But success at what cost is important! If your career is also your vocation, then good on you! Or if you are someone who is married to your job, then best wishes to you too!

      As someone wise said, “One who understands the difference between MORE and ENOUGH is the happiest person.”

      I have realized it is far more important to invest and build a fulfilling and meaningful life in spheres beyond our professional identity. 

      To my privileged friends (read: financially secure), well into their 40s and 50s, my humble unsolicited advice - if we know where to draw a line or appreciate how much is enough, a portfolio life is what we should aspire for.

      A portfolio life that allows us to integrate multiple interests. A life that allows us to earn money and, at the same time brings health, joy, and fun, provides learning opportunities, and also opportunities to give back to our family and society. And that’s a life I look forward to leading in the new decade.

3. Going beyond Hydrogen Peroxide and Ammonia (…and first impressions!)

In 2017, on a whim, I decided to stop coloring my hair and go grey. Many friends (mostly ladies) immediately reached out to me saying that I was being brave to reveal my greys while in my 40s when typically, most women keep coloring, well into their 70s (unlike men who find it easier to flaunt their greys as they appear).

My response was - "The decision may appear “brave” to many (women), but ironically, I am being “cautious” about my future.”

Cautious???...Yes!

For me, the equation was clear in (and off) my head.

No Hair Colouring =

More [(Money + Time) today + (Hair) in future] and

Less [(Hair loss + Carcinogens + Mental weight to look a certain age) today]

Honestly, I had reached a stage where first impressions didn’t matter anymore. Only lasting impressions did! And lasting impressions are shaped by our actions (how we show up) and not how we look.

I will also add that hair colouring is a personal decision and to each their own. I am not judging anyone as each one of us has different reasons to color or not color.

But this decision for me was by far the easiest one to make in my 40s and live by it even today! However, tomorrow, if someone comes up with a hair color that is long-lasting, non-toxic, and does not lead to hair loss, I might just consider it!

That's it! That’s me being thrifty at fifty and focussing on what really matters in the coming decade.

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Turkey, Thoda Hatke!

A much overdue international vacation had been weighing on our minds. And then lo and behold! Guru, the planet of travel and exploration finally aligned in our astro charts and proclaimed, “Awasares, ho ja shuru!”. Thus, began our plans for an international vacation in 2024. Jokes aside, though many mini holidays in India had happened regularly, an international vacation fructified for us after a drought of eight long years. As if a divine intervention was much required.

While ‘A’ prefers to travel back in time (read, historical places), I love traveling – period! Turkey was always on our radar along with a few other destinations and when Khaki Tours announced their Turkey trip, we totally “tripped”! We said, this is it! I firmly believe that one does not choose a destination. The destination chooses you! So, among all the shortlisted destinations, Turkey chose us!


Having visited Greece in 2016, Turkey seemed like a perfect follow-through. Joined at the hip, these two countries have a shared history and culture, and yet both are interesting and distinctive in their own ways. The Yin and the Yang of the Mediterranean region!

The web has spawned reams of pages promoting Turkey as a popular holiday destination. After all, it features in the top ten countries visited by tourists globally. Also, many I know have ticked it off their bucket list long before we landed in Istanbul. With so much already out there and experienced, what could one possibly dish out on Turkey without making anyone feel stuffed like one (pun intended). Hence, “Turkey, Thoda Hatke”, is my humble attempt to bring to light the country’s less experienced side (or so I presume) that we enjoyed and also that is scarcely meta-tagged. Whether or not you have been there and done that, I am hoping this will interest you - Now or in the future!

This is a list of must-visit and must-experience items based on our memorable 12-day holiday with Khaki Tours. Quite frankly, an A-to-Z list would be foolish for me to attempt with just one Turkey visa stamp on my passport. However, this short list can be a good starting point.

Here we go!!!


MUST VISIT PLACES

A for Assos

I must say that the Temple of Athena resting high on top of a hill in Assos village is the best-kept secret of the calm Aegean Sea. A winding stone-cobbled path through a quaint Greek-looking village took the wind out of us as we huffed our way to the top. But believe me, it was worth every single mg of calorie that was lost in that little village. When we finally reached the summit, right below our feet stood the hallowed grounds belonging to the wisest. Aristotle is said to have taught his disciples here in 350 BC. What welcomed us were the remains of the doric columns standing stoically for over two thousand years. If only they could talk! 

On the other hand, the feisty winds on the hilltop were not so welcoming. They were literally blowing us away and throwing us off the ground as if to say, “Shoo, get going, you don’t belong here!”.
As we maneuvered the heckling winds, the sight of the serene expanse of turquoise blue Aegean Sea down below calmed our nerves instantly. Those breathtaking views will remain etched in my memories. Not on the typical tourist map, the ancient ruins dated 6th century BC are a must-visit if passing through Behramkale. Only on our way down, did we grasp the true charm of the Assos village that we missed while catching our breath on the way up. Many small handicraft shops selling delicate crochet work, dried herbs and spices and souvenirs dotted the path. Most run by old frail women of Assos village, the shops, unfortunately, wore a deserted look (possibly it was off-season). Stooped with age, they appeared to carry the weight of the village’s economy on their dainty backs.

Tip: What we got from the shops were coarsely cut large chunks of olive oil soaps that are popular even among the locals. Some of us also bought local handmade trinkets and bracelets as souvenirs.

Temple of Athena, Assos
(Pic Courtesy: Rishabh Shukla)

B for Basilica Cistern

Though a popular inclusion in the itinerary of every tourist to Istanbul, I am including this beauty here only to reinforce the fact that this experience should not be missed for anything! A magical place, a stunning splendor, an architecture marvel, a historic gem, and a photographer’s delight all rolled into one. Along with the Hagia (Aya) Sofia, Emperor Justinian I from the Byzantine era is credited for this engineering feat built in the 6th century during his reign. The grandness and aura of this place are overwhelming. I could not believe my ears when the guide remarked that this magnificent system was created 1500 years ago. The cistern that could store 80,000 cubic meters of water was built to provide water to the entire city of Istanbul, which was then known as Constantinople. The cistern is supported by 336 columns each one unique though they appear similar in height. Each of these columns was salvaged from ruined buildings and is thought to have been brought from various parts of the Byzantine Empire. The cistern was forgotten for centuries and was rediscovered by chance in the 16th century when a Dutch traveler noticed locals retrieving water from a hole in their basement floor.

Tip: As you walk down the steps to enter the cistern, you will be engulfed with humidity and warmth. Some may find the ambiance spooky too! But don’t be spooked! In fact, the atmosphere will grow on you, and at the end, you will feel sad that the tour is over.
By the way, the movie “Inferno” was shot here for its climax scene.





C for Cleopatra's Antique Pool

Situated near the white travertine pools of Pamukkale, tourists are known to make a beeline to bathe in “Queen Bee’s Antique pool”. You read it right! Legend says this thermal pool was once used by Egyptian Queen Cleopatra for a dip to relax herself from the tiredness of long travel.

Whether it is for Dawa or Queen’s Dua we don’t know but as expected the pool had in it many Deewanas (including yours truly). This unique and magnificent location is apparently fed by the same hot springs that are found in the Hierapolis region. As we took a dip and swam in the medicinal waters, we could not help but notice the rising glow on our faces (or so I think). We don’t know if the radiance was the result of our body experiencing the warmth of thermal springs in the cool climes or the surreal joy of knowing that the famous beauty queen once bathed in the same waters centuries ago or just a psychosomatic effect. Whatever it was, for this water baby, soaking in these historical mineral waters was a blissful experience. Today, this place is run like a professional spa that allows you to enjoy these antique therapeutic waters with all modern facilities.

Cleopatra's Antique Pool
(Pic Courtesy: Expedia.com)


Tip: Be careful while wading through the pool. Walking on the floor bed of the pool your feet will meet stones and pebbles of all shapes and sizes settled at the bottom. Be ready to be surprised!
For safety purposes, deeper sides are clearly demarcated to warn the non-swimmers.

G for Gallipoli

Visiting this place literally gave me goosebumps and filled me with pride, especially after knowing the story of the forgotten Indian soldiers of Gallipoli.
Battle of Gallipoli is that infamous military event that resulted in the downfall of Winston Churchill and also the emergence of the Turkish military hero, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
The Battle of Gallipoli also called the Dardanelles Campaign (1915-16) was an unsuccessful attempt by the Allied Powers to control the sea route from Europe to Russia during World War I.
Along with British troops, there were soldiers from Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, France including India. Considered to be one of the bloodiest battles of World War I it witnessed the death of tens of thousands of soldiers on both sides. There has been an ANZAC memorial built on the Gallipoli peninsula to pay respects to the soldiers from Australia and NZ who laid down their lives but for the longest time, the contribution of Indian soldiers was completely forgotten or erased. At least 1500 Indian soldiers who fought the battle lost their lives along with the ANZACs. Though today the proof of their sacrifice and bravery is carved into the Helles war memorial, their contribution is often conspicuously absent from many history books.


Helles Memorial at the tip of Gallipoli Peninsula

Names of Indian Soldiers at the Helles Memorial


Additionally, we also visited the ANZAC Cove cemetery located on a beach which is also a picturesque location. There are around 252 Commonwealth servicemen of the First World War buried or commemorated in this cemetery including the names of three Indian Muslim soldiers as well.

ANZAC Cove memorial


Tip: As you walk along the periphery of the Helles War Memorial do try to read the names of the soldiers etched on the side walls. You will stumble on the names of Indian soldiers belonging to the Gorkha and Punjab regiments commemorated for posterity. An unlikely place to feel a sense of national pride as you read the Indian soldier’s names in a foreign land.

Also, don’t miss the famous heart-rending and inspiring words attributed to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk etched on a wall at Gallipoli Peninsula - “Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives ... You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore, rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours ... You, the mothers who sent their sons from faraway countries, wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in peace. After having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well.”

Famous words by Kamal Ataturk at ANZAC Cove

I for Ilhara Valley

No one can resist the lure of a trek through the magical Ilhara Valley. Even the laziest can give in to its surreal beauty. It was an enchanting five-kilometer leisurely walk passing through the woods with lovely greens, gurgling rivulets, cooing birds, and fleeting butterflies as a company. This is one trek you will wish never ends as walking through the peaceful Ilhara Valley is akin to going on a pilgrimage or a soulful journey.

The valley is a deep river canyon in Western Cappadocia with lush vegetation, cave churches, and towering cliff faces, a visual experience one should not miss.
It is so pristine and picturesque that at the end, one of our friends in the group jokingly remarked that Ilhara Valley cannot qualify as a “trek” for us Indians. After all, we could not find a single gutkha packet or empty rum bottle lying around anywhere on our walk.

Enjoying the views of Ilhara Valley
(Pic Courtesy: Rishabh Shukla)

K for Kaymakli Cave City

Cappadocia’s landscape is generous in every sense. It has a lot to offer for tourists. Not surprisingly, Cappadocia is invariably packaged with Istanbul in travel itineraries though it is a flight away. Not just its length and breadth but it offers you thrilling heights of excitement with the hot air balloon ride and gorgeous Goreme Open Air Museum on one end and at the other end breath-taking depths of cave cities that are almost 80 meters deep - that’s like buildings with 20 floors below the earth’s surface.

Kaymakli Underground City was the only place I was anxious to visit much before the holiday travel began. Since I have claustrophobia, crawling through narrow tunnels is not my idea of fun. However, once the guide shared with the group that the underground cave city has options to exit the cave if one feels anxious and unsettled, I felt a bit relieved. I changed my mind and bravely decided to give it a go. And boy, am I glad I went for it. It was an experience I will not forget easily.
Built at eight levels below the ground level, the tour is available only till level four for tourists. Believe me, I had it by level two itself. Not just me but all others in the group too. So, you can imagine! Crawling on bended knees, through confined tunnels and low ceilings, the cave city carved out of soft volcanic rock is overwhelming. The Phrygians, a civilization that flourished in central Anatolia from 1200-700 BC, are credited with building the Kaymakli Underground City. Later the Christians used it as a haven to hide and protect themselves from Romans (Pagans) in 3 CE and later from Arabs in 7-8 CE to avoid persecution. Besides human life, the city was also used to safeguard cattle and stockpile food and water supplies. At level one it would have the stables, level two was usually the place of worship or Church, at level three there were storage spaces and kitchens and at level four they would keep huge earthenware jars and abundant storage places. At any given time, at least 3500 people used to live in Kaymakli underground city. It is a mind-blowing experience that should not be missed while in Cappadocia! Even if you have claustrophobia (like me).


Tip: As we were exiting the cave city, there were serpentine queues of tourists wanting to get in at peak time. Thank God, the folks at Khaki Tours pre-empted this scenario and hence scheduled our visit early in the day and not during peak time. Imagine a traffic jam of people in those narrow spaces. I just shudder to think about it!

Crawling through Kaymakli Underground city like termites in an anthill

S for Streets of Karakoy, Istiklal Avenue, Nisantasi

The best way to explore Istanbul is on foot! There is so much going on the streets of Istanbul that you can spend an entire day from brunch to dinner and yet there would be more to discover. Full of historical and cultural experiences, they have a charming beauty and elegance that’s unique to the city. On one end you will find a historic heritage tram trudging along and on the other, you will find high fashion labels in exclusive galleries. For those who enjoy a good evening/nightlife, you will find the best bars in Istanbul and also many beautiful restaurants and cafes, hosting many different Turkish food or other cuisines. Interestingly, each street has its own charm and personality distinct from the other. You cannot just visit one. You have to visit all the streets to get a “taste” of what Istanbul has to offer. Karakoy, Istiklal Avenue, and Nisantasi are just a few streets we visited. There are many more in Istanbul that are worth visiting.

Streets of Karakoy


The above is a video of the fans of the Galata Serai football team celebrations as they romp through Istiklal Avenue post a grand win.

MUST EAT/DRINK/EXPERIENCE

A for Ayran
If you are a Chhaas or butter milk person then you will love Ayran! This drink makes for a perfect healthy accompaniment during meals. With a hint of salt already added to it, you will enjoy this drink whether it is homemade or a branded off-the-shelf product. We loved both versions. Make sure you include this in your meals.
Tip: If flying Turkish Airlines, ask the air hostess if it is part of the drink’s menu. If yes, go grab it before they run out of it! If you are late in asking, highly probable the air hostess will come back and say, “Sorry, Ay ran out of it!”.




C for Corba

Apparently, soups have held an important place in traditional Turkish cuisine for centuries. The Turkish word for soup, çorba, is derived from the Persian Å¡urbâ, a combination of the two words’ salty’ and ‘love’. The Turkish Red Lentil soup known as Mercimek Çorbası locally, is the most common “Corba” found in restaurant menus. Pronounced as Chorba, it is quite similar to the word Shorba we use for the soups in Mughlai cuisine. The red lentil soup not only works as a great comfort food but is satisfying and a nutritious appetizer. It cleverly combines rudimentary veggies like onion, carrots, and potatoes with red lentils and swirls up a homey surprise that tastes like comfort food. Akin to our very own Varan Bhaat (lentil rice) drizzled with homemade tup (ghee)!
Tip: As a vegetarian, it was my go-to soup for many of my meals and sometimes at breakfast too (with bread and Turkish string cheese).

The Red Lentil Soup
(Pic Courtesy: Rishabh Shukla)


D for Dondurma

Ice cream in Turkey is Dondurma. “No one can eat just one!”, is a phrase coined probably to describe the irresistible Dondurma. Richer, milkier, and with a lip-smacking taste, Turkish Dondurma can test the self-control of the most strong-willed person.

One can find Dondurma, all across the country sold at baklava shops, street vendors, and restaurants as if they are testing your willpower. It is available in a variety of flavors. But my favorite one remained the Pistachio. Even the Wall’s ice cream is so much more creamy and tastier here than what we get in India. [Try the Blue Berries Wall’s ice cream – it is enticing!]

And then there is Maras Dondurma, an ice cream with a unique taste and texture that needs to be acquired. But I will also add that you must try it at least once while you are here. This traditional Turkish ice cream is sweet, creamy, stretchy, and slightly chewy at the same time. Apparently, the chewiness of the ice cream comes from the goat’s milk and an ingredient called salep (starchy root of wild orchids endemic to the region).

Tip: You will get better quality Dondurma from outlets viz. Gulluoglu (Karakoy) and Mado (chain). Gulluoglu is also known for the best Baclavas in Istanbul.
Avoid the fellows in traditional outfits banging their ladles aggressively on the metal pots luring you to make a fool out of you. Unless you just want to get teased and taunted for a scoop of Turkish Ice cream that’s sub-par in taste and quality. 

Best Dondurma at the legendary Gulluoglu in Karakoy

G for Gozleme

A sure-fire recipe to stop your craving for Indian food (if at all) while in Turkey. Have the Gozleme! The crispy, golden Turkish flatbreads are stuffed with all sorts of tasty fillings that look and taste like our warm flaky buttery parathas. Just like parathas come in various fillings, these too have multiple options. You can choose from Spinach and Feta, Potato and Feta, or spiced red meat. Whichever way you prefer them, I am sure, your longing for Indian food will quickly disappear like the fresh servings of hot Gozlemes will vanish from your plate.

Tip: The one with yellow cheese (Kaseri) goes well with soups and gives you a dal paratha-like taste.

The scrumptious Gozleme
(Pic Courtesy: Rishabh Shukla)

K for Kumpir

Kumpir is to the streets of Turkey like Vada Pav is to the streets of Mumbai. As simple as that. One of the most popular streetside food in Turkey it can be served with a variety of toppings and combinations. It is commonly sold by street vendors and small shops and its popularity lies in its rich flavors and the ability to be customized.
For this dish, huge potatoes are baked in the oven, split open, and the fluffy flesh of the jacket potato is mixed with butter, salt, and a Turkish cheese similar to mozzarella. The potato is then loaded with an array of toppings that include olives, pickles, sweetcorn, Russian salad, pickled cabbage, beets, mushrooms, and coleslaw. You can have the non-vegetarian version by adding sausages too.

Turkish Kumpir is a versatile dish originally from former Yugoslavia. But today the Turks have made it uniquely their own by introducing an array of diverse fillings and toppings.
“Yeh nahi khaya to kya khaya!” Truly, we stuffed ourselves with Kumpir on many occasions, and that probably helped us gain back all the weight we had lost by walking the many streets of Istanbul.

Kumpir, a meal by itself

Kumpir in the background with a huge Mezze platter upfront



With that, we come to the end of “Turkey Thoda Hatke”, a travelogue inspired by the “Turkey Unveiled” tour meticulously organized by the Khaki Team. They truly know how to Keep Heritage Alive and Kicking Internationally too!
In addition to the above, there is so much more that we experienced.

The historic Ephesus. The fascinating Fairy Chimneys. The iconic Mevlana Museum of Rumi. The travertines of Pamukkale. The heady hot air balloon ride. Remarkable Hierapolis, Quietly Brilliant House of Virgin Mary. Buzzing alleys of Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar, Mulla Nasruddin’s tomb, World-famous duo Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque. The majestic Dolmabahce Palace and more. But quite frankly, they have all been written about generously. “Turkey Thoda Hatke” is a tribute to those interesting experiences and places that usually don’t get talked about as much as they deserve.
Thanks to Khaki Tours, A and I have created many beautiful memories of Turkey and more importantly with like-minded travellers who have become our friends for life!

Quick Bonus Tips:


Best time to visit
: April to June and Sept/Oct as the crowds are less and weather is also suitable
Currency: The Euro is largely accepted. However, carry a few Liras as they may be required for using loos (mostly clean) in public places or local street shopping. Usually, 5 to 10 Liras are charged per person for using the public loos.
Conversion: Get the foreign currency in exchange shops located in public or busy marketplaces if possible. For instance, we got the best rate in the Grand Bazaar area in Istanbul.
Airlines: Don’t delay booking your flight tickets once the destination is decided. Book at least two months in advance to get good prices. They can easily double as you get closer to the travel date. Preferably book Turkish Airlines (and not Indigo) if you have a choice.
Street shopping: If you like something buy it but only after healthy negotiation. The street shops are open to bargaining. Also, quite used to it.
Tour operator: If you love history, having new experiences, experimenting with local cuisine, staying in comfortable and city center hotels, listening to stories of the place from a trusted guide, and traveling with like-minded travelers, look no further than Khaki Tours. They really ensure you have a good time!

Some more photos of our Turkey holiday that made it special!

Hotel at Kusadasi with a view like this!



Exploring Cappadocia's unique landscape


Sauntering through the streets of Karakoy


Sitting at the Sultanat Gates of Dolmabahce Palace. 

Galata Tower Area, another great area to walk around


Celebrating our successful landing after an exhilarating Hot Air Balloon Ride
(Pic Courtesy: Akriti Chandervanshi)


We needed this after exploring the historical city of Ephesus. A relaxed evening!


Goreme Open Air Museum at Cappadocia


Posing by the gates of the majestic Dolmabahce Palace


That's the beauty that got us back on the ground, safe and sound!
(Pic Courtesy: Rohan Sharma)



Finally, the Turkey Gang!!!


Tuesday, February 06, 2024

Vuja De!






 In the past.

January every year would be like…

Yea…It’s the beginning of a new year! My heart is filled with hope and my head is brimming with exciting plans and goals for the next 12 months.

April to December every year would be like…

The months have passed and the soaring balloon of hope has settled down tamely in a corner. The fancy organizer with neatly laid out plans has begun to look like a long list of missed milestones. And the eternal optimist has already turned her gaze to the upcoming new year for redemption.

Enter Vuja De!


January 2024

It’s the beginning of a new year. My heart is filled with hope and my head is brimming with plans and goals for the next 12 months.

Déjà vu?

Yes…however, this time the recurring “early-year phenomenon” has a twist. The familiar feeling and the wisdom (of many years) of knowing what lay ahead (or not) in the year is being replaced by Vuja De!

What’s Vuja De, you ask! Vuja de is about experiencing something familiar with fresh eyes and being open to new possibilities. It is about having a fresh perspective.

As the French novelist Marcel Proust wrote, “The real act of discovery consists not in finding new lands but in seeing with new eyes”.

And that’s the broad theme of what I learned in 2023 thanks to the most courageous career decision of my life so far — i.e. Taking a sabbatical!

A year that threw light on seemingly obvious things that I did not see before.

So, here are my lessons:

To look at familiar situations and see them anew. — So many times, I had passed through the lanes and by-lanes of my city and walked by remarkable and not-so-ordinary buildings without giving them a second glance. Little did I know the importance of their role in the city’s history and its development. Since I got involved with Khaki Tours and her tribe (as a passion project) last year, there is now a renewed interest in not just what’s visible on the facades but, an appreciation for even the stories hidden behind the walls and in their crevices.

By the way, Mumbaikars, did you know that the hills in Mumbai are older than the Himalayas?

Lesson №1 — Be curious. Go deeper. Broaden perspectives.

— -

To go beyond the obvious and question the default. — There were some narratives that I kept telling myself about what I was capable of. And over a period of time, these repeated stories became my reality.

Last year, after a career spanning 25 years, I finally garnered the courage to take a sabbatical. It was a leap of faith. It was like airdropping into an unfamiliar territory. Thankfully, I quickly made friends with pause and reboot. They in turn introduced me to someone I should have known earlier — my default mindset.

This sabbatical also opened my eyes to know that there are many ways and means to lead a fulfilling life that do not hinge only on my work identity or the label I display on my LinkedIn profile. The age we live in today allows us to lead a portfolio life. A life that allows us to focus on multiple interests as opposed to focusing on a single job/profession like in earlier days. In a nutshell, Portfolio Life = A life in which you can earn a livelihood + A life that provides a sense of joy + Learning opportunities + Opportunities to give back to society.

I am slowly discovering what that life looks like for me but the process is still in the WIP stage. However, I am glad I at least have the luxury to embrace it.

Believe me, the portfolio life will be the future of our life. The sooner we embrace it the better.

“Because you deserve rest, relationships, and a rewarding career — not someday, but today. After all, you only live once.” — As right said by Christina Wallace, author of the book — The Portfolio Life

Lesson №2 — Do not travel through life on automatic pilot.

— -

To look within and reimagine what more is possible — If last year you had told me that I could be a storyteller sharing Mumbai’s untold tales from the past, I would have laughed it off. But here I am today, hosting walking tours through the streets of Mumbai in my free time. I have unlocked within me a potential that hitherto I thought was unthinkable. Up until now, History and Storytelling were topics that piqued my curiosity through books. But now, I am not only making history come alive for travelers through stories but importantly, I am giving back to my dear city (albeit in a small way) by showcasing its rich heritage and culture.

Lesson №3 — Be courageous. Be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Growth happens only outside our comfort zone.

— -

To look at old, entrenched challenges as if I am seeing them for the first time. — In life, we are faced with problems that sometimes have a recurring theme. In my case, it was committing to many goals at the same time and realizing only a few.

I have now learned to address this issue “a bit” differently.

For instance, I now take one small change (in habit/routine) at one time. Not be ambitious with picking more than one at the same time. Regularize that one piece as part of my daily schedule strategically. Proclaim it to my family members. Ask them to pull me up if I fail. Request them to become my reminders and cheerleaders. Give it all. Be patient with me, the process, and the outcome. Gradually, over time, expect that one small change to become a part of the muscle memory as I start to see the benefits. And then only move to the next one.

Lesson № 4 - Step back, pause and look within to uncover the broad theme of all the challenges in your life. Take one tiny step at a time to address that broad theme. As someone wise said, “There is only one way to eat an elephant: one bite at a time.”

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Equipped with these learnings the same old me with a fresh perspective, and abundant hope but only a few goals/plans is looking forward to 2024!

Wish you all a “fresh start” to the new year!