akshayyj

[akshayyj]

My Two Cents on Budget

Understanding India’s Budget: GDP, Taxation, Banking, and Practical Growth Strategies ✨📊🇮🇳

Tomorrow is Budget Day in India—a crucial moment that shapes our economy and affects our daily lives. But to truly appreciate its impact, we must first understand how GDP, taxation, banking, and economic policies influence growth. This blog will break down these concepts in simple terms, summarize key insights from the podcast by Dr. Prasanna Tantri, and suggest practical ideas for an effective budget. 💡📈🧠

What is GDP and Why Net Value Addition Matters? 💰📉📊

GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is the total value of all goods and services produced in a country. However, the real measure of economic health is not just GDP but net value addition—the actual increase in wealth after removing the cost of raw materials and intermediate goods. 🚀🏭💡

Example:

Imagine a restaurant that buys vegetables for ₹10,000, employs a chef for ₹15,000, and earns ₹50,000 in total sales. If you only look at revenue, you might say the restaurant is doing great. But if we subtract costs (vegetables + salaries + rent), the actual profit or net value addition is what really counts. Similarly, a country must focus on increasing value-added production rather than just output. 🍽️📊💵

How Taxation Can Impact Growth Negatively 🚧💸⚖️

While taxation is necessary for government revenue, high taxes can discourage businesses and consumers from spending and investing. 📉🏢👎

Example:

If the government imposes a high tax on mobile phones, fewer people will buy them, leading to lower demand and job losses in the industry. Instead, a balanced tax system should encourage businesses to invest and expand, ultimately leading to more job creation and increased revenue through economic activity. 📱📊💼

Better Alternative:

Instead of taxing businesses heavily, the government can promote tax incentives for industries that create high employment. 🎯🏭📈

Reduce compliance burdens for small businesses to encourage entrepreneurship. 💼💰🚀

Reduce income tax for the middle class to increase disposable income, leading to higher consumer spending and more investment in housing, education, and businesses. This will spur overall economic growth and job creation. 🏡📚💵

Role of RBI in Supporting Economic Growth 🏦📉💡

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plays a crucial role in ensuring the economy remains stable while promoting growth. It controls interest rates, inflation, and the money supply in the market. 📊🔄🏛️

How Can RBI Help Growth? 🏦💰🚀

Lowering Interest Rates: If RBI lowers interest rates, businesses can borrow money at lower costs, invest in expansion, and create more jobs. 🏗️💸📈

Managing Inflation: Too much money in the system leads to inflation, making goods expensive. RBI ensures the right balance. 💹⚖️🛒

Ensuring Liquidity: By providing funds to banks, RBI ensures they can lend money to businesses and individuals when needed. 💳🏦💵

Practical Idea for Budget: RBI and the government can work together to provide special low-interest loans to startups and MSMEs, boosting innovation and job creation. 🚀💡🏭

Practical Suggestions 🎯📜🚀

Shift from High Taxation to High-Compliance Model

Reduce GST rates for essential and manufacturing sectors while ensuring better tax collection through AI-driven monitoring. 🏭🤖💰

Introduce “One-Nation, One-Tax Return” to simplify tax filing. 📝✅🇮🇳

Transform Agriculture into a Value-Adding Industry

Instead of just providing subsidies, promote food processing industries near farms to increase farmer earnings. 🚜🏭💵

Encourage private investment in cold storage and logistics. ❄️🚚📦

Government as a Growth Partner, Not Just a Regulator

Instead of controlling businesses through regulations, the government can provide AI-powered financial advisory services to MSMEs, guiding them towards profitable operations. 🤖💼📈

Promote local manufacturing by reducing import duties on essential raw materials. 🏭🇮🇳🔧

Tech-Enabled Public Services for Better Utilization of Funds

Use AI to track government project efficiency and reduce corruption. 🏗️🖥️🔍

Implement digital education reforms to improve the quality of education while reducing costs. 📚💻🎓

Budget in nutshell 🎙️🧠📢

India's budget must shift its focus from just GDP numbers to actual value addition. Simply producing more does not mean we are progressing—what matters is whether we are creating real wealth. 🏦💰📊

Taxation should be designed to encourage business growth rather than acting as a burden. ⚖️💼📈

RBI should use interest rate policies strategically to help industries grow while managing inflation. 📉🏗️🏛️

The government should think like an investor—spending money where it generates maximum economic returns rather than just fulfilling political promises. 🎯💡📊

Reducing middle-class income tax can enhance consumption and private investment, leading to a positive cycle of economic expansion. 💰🏡📈

The key takeaway? India’s economy needs smart policies that prioritize wealth creation, ease of doing business, and sustainable economic expansion over short-term revenue collection. ����📊📈

Final Thoughts 🤔📜🚀

This budget, the government has an opportunity to create a roadmap for real economic growth. By understanding taxation, banking, and net value addition, we as citizens can demand better policies and make informed decisions. Let’s hope this year’s budget takes a bold step toward a wealthier and more prosperous India! 🇮🇳📈💡

[akshayyj]

Mastering Prompt Engineering - In 5 simple steps

Introduction:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming every aspect of our lives, from how we work to how we interact with technology. Central to this transformation is the art of Prompt Engineering—the practice of crafting precise instructions that guide AI models to deliver desired outcomes. Whether you’re an educator, marketer, developer, or simply curious about AI, mastering prompt engineering is a game-changer. This guide will provide you with a five-step formula to effectively engage with AI and demonstrate how prompt engineering is a valuable skill across all professions.

What is Prompt Engineering?

Prompt engineering is the art and science of crafting clear, context-rich instructions that enable AI systems to generate the most accurate and relevant outputs. It’s akin to being an architect of communication, where the prompts act as blueprints that shape AI’s responses. Whether you’re asking an AI to write a blog, summarize data, create code, or solve a problem, the quality of the prompt determines the quality of the response.

The 5-Step Guide to Mastering AI Prompting

Step 1. Define the Role

Establish the role you want the AI to assume. This sets the tone, perspective, and expertise level required for the interaction. Defining the role not only narrows down the AI’s scope but also helps tailor its responses more accurately.

• Example: Instead of a vague prompt like “Tell me about climate change,” specify, “As a climate scientist, explain the effects of climate change on polar ice caps.”

• Why this matters: It ensures the AI embodies the right persona, resulting in outputs that are more contextually relevant and precise.

Step 2. Define the Task

Clearly state the task you want the AI to perform. The more specific the task, the more focused and accurate the response.

• Example: Instead of saying “Describe the stock market,” ask, “Provide an analysis of how technological advancements have impacted stock market trends over the past decade.”

• Why this matters: Specificity eliminates ambiguity, enabling the AI to deliver targeted, comprehensive, and actionable insights.

Step 3. Define Constraints

Constraints are essential boundaries that help control the AI’s output. These could be related to length, tone, style, complexity, or content structure.

• Example: “Summarize the history of blockchain technology in 150 words using non-technical language.”

• Why this matters: Constraints prevent irrelevant or overly complex responses, ensuring that the AI’s output aligns perfectly with your requirements.

Step 4. Define the Audience

Identifying the intended audience is crucial for crafting relevant and relatable AI responses. When the AI knows who it’s addressing, it can adjust its language, tone, and style accordingly.

• Example: “Explain the basics of quantum computing to a group of high school science students.”

• Why this matters: Tailoring the response to the audience ensures that the output is engaging, informative, and easily comprehensible for that particular group.

Step 5. Define Expectations

Set clear expectations about the output you desire. Whether you need a detailed analysis, a quick summary, or a creative narrative, specifying expectations helps the AI understand the desired outcome.

• Example: “List the top 5 emerging technologies in healthcare, and explain their potential impact in 2-3 sentences each.”

• Why this matters: Clear expectations guide the AI to produce the exact format, structure, and depth you need, saving time and effort on revisions.

The Utility of Prompt Engineering Across Professions

Prompt engineering isn’t just for AI enthusiasts; it’s a versatile skill with applications across various industries. Here’s how different professionals can leverage prompt engineering:

• Content Creators & Marketers: Generate blog ideas, draft compelling headlines, create engaging social media posts, and optimize ad copy.

• Educators & Trainers: Design interactive learning experiences, create personalized assignments, and generate quizzes or study material tailored to different learning levels.

• Developers & Programmers: Utilize AI for code generation, debugging, and creating software documentation. Prompt engineering can also streamline the creation of chatbots or automate repetitive coding tasks.

• Customer Support & Service: Enhance AI-powered chatbots by crafting precise prompts, leading to more accurate responses and improved customer experiences.

• Researchers & Analysts: Use AI tools to extract and summarize large datasets, generate insights, and draft comprehensive reports.

Prompt Engineering as a Lucrative Career Option

As AI continues to advance and integrate into various sectors, the demand for skilled prompt engineers is on the rise. Here’s why prompt engineering is becoming a sought-after career:

• High Demand: With AI adoption increasing across industries, there’s a growing need for professionals who can optimize AI interactions.

• Versatility: Prompt engineering skills are transferable and can be applied in finance, healthcare, education, entertainment, marketing, and more.

• Continuous Learning: AI is ever-evolving, providing prompt engineers with opportunities to learn, adapt, and innovate, making it a dynamic and intellectually stimulating career path.

Key Skills for Aspiring Prompt Engineers:

• Strong Communication: Ability to craft clear and effective prompts.

• Understanding of AI Capabilities: Knowing what AI can and can’t do to set realistic expectations.

• Adaptability: Tailoring prompts for various contexts, audiences, and platforms.

• Analytical Thinking: Refining prompts based on feedback to improve AI output.

Conclusion: Mastering Prompt Engineering – Your AI Superpower

Prompt engineering is more than just a tool—it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of AI. By mastering the five steps—Defining the Role, Task, Constraints, Audience, and Expectations—you can transform AI into a powerful ally that enhances productivity, creativity, and problem-solving. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, learning the nuances of prompt engineering will elevate your interaction with AI, opening doors to endless possibilities.

Call to Action: Ready to harness the power of AI? Start experimenting with prompts today and experience firsthand how this skill can revolutionise your interactions with technology. If you’re interested in mastering prompt engineering, stay tuned for more insights, tips, and advanced strategies!

[akshayyj]

Uncomfortable Truths about Life

Uncomfortable Truths about Life

Life is full of ups and downs, and we often have to face uncomfortable truths that we'd rather avoid. These truths can be difficult to accept and can challenge our beliefs, values, and understanding of the world. However, facing these uncomfortable truths is essential for personal growth, understanding, and acceptance of our place in the world else this may lead to bitterness towards life & may as well become the root cause of depression.

In this blog, I will explore some of the uncomfortable truths about life which I myself have experienced first-hand

1. Life is Unfair:

The first uncomfortable truth about life is that it is inherently unfair. Some people are born into privilege, while others are born into poverty. Some people are born with natural talents, while others struggle to learn even the most basic skills. Life is not a level playing field, and this can be difficult to accept.

Why is this uncomfortable truth so hard to accept? For one, we often believe in the myth of meritocracy, the idea that success is based solely on hard work and talent. We like to believe that if we work hard enough, we will be rewarded accordingly. However, the reality is that many factors outside of our control, such as social status, race, gender, and economic background, can influence our opportunities and success.

Acknowledging this uncomfortable truth can be difficult, but it is essential for personal growth and empathy. By recognising that life is unfair, rather than becoming cynical, we can work to create a more just and equitable world. We can also appreciate our own privileges and use them to help others who are less fortunate.

2. Your Vibes Attract People:

The people you attract, or don't attract, are a reflection of your vibes. Our energy, emotions, and beliefs attract certain people and repel others. This can be difficult to accept, especially if we feel like we're not attracting the people we want in our lives.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? We like to believe that we have no control over who we attract or repel. However, the reality is that we can change our vibes and attract different people into our lives. This requires self-awareness, introspection, and a willingness to change.

Acknowledging this truth can be empowering. By recognising that we attract what we put out into the world, we can work on improving our energy and beliefs. We can also surround ourselves with people who uplift us and help us grow.

3. Results Matter More Than Opinions:

No one cares about your opinion until you show results. We live in a results-oriented world, where success is measured by outcomes rather than ideas. Our opinions and thoughts are only valuable if they translate into action and results.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? We like to believe that our opinions are valuable and insightful, even if we don't have the results to back them up. However, the reality is that opinions without action are meaningless.

Acknowledging this truth can be motivating. By recognising that results matter more than opinions, we can focus on taking action and achieving our goals. We can also seek feedback from others and use it to improve our results.

4. Fear of Making Sacrifices:

It's not lack of talent, it's the fear of making sacrifices. Many of us have big dreams and aspirations, but we're not willing to make the sacrifices required to achieve them. We make excuses for ourselves, blaming our lack of talent or resources.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? It forces us to confront our own fears and limitations. We have to acknowledge that our dreams are only achievable if we're willing to make sacrifices and put in the hard work.

Acknowledging this truth can be liberating. By recognising that fear of making sacrifices is holding us back, we can work on overcoming our fears and taking action towards our goals.

5. Appreciation for Life:

You truly appreciate life only after you almost die. It's easy to take life for granted, but when we're faced with our mortality, we realise how precious life truly is.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? It forces us to confront the reality of our own mortality. We have to acknowledge that life is fleeting and that we should make the most of every moment.

Acknowledging this truth can be life-changing. By recognising the value of life, we can focus on living in the present and cherishing every moment.

6. Importance of What You Have:

You don't know how important it is until you lose it. We often take the things we have for granted, whether it's our health, relationships, or possessions. It's only when we lose something that we realise how much it meant to us.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? It forces us to confront our own complacency and lack of appreciation for what we have. We have to acknowledge that we should be grateful for what we have, even if it's not perfect.

7. Most People Don't Care About You:

Most people don't know you exist and don't care about you. We tend to think of ourselves as the centre of the universe, but the reality is that most people are too preoccupied with their own lives to care about ours.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? It can be difficult to accept that we're not as important to others as we thought. It can also be humbling to realise that we need to work harder to make meaningful connections with others.

Acknowledging this truth can be liberating. By recognising that most people don't care about us, we can focus on building deeper, more meaningful relationships with those who do.

8. You Will Never Feel Ready:

It doesn't matter how much you learn, you will never feel ready. We often delay taking action towards our goals because we don't feel ready or prepared enough. We think we need more knowledge, skills, or resources before we can take the next step.

Why is this truth uncomfortable? It forces us to confront our own self-doubt and procrastination. We have to acknowledge that we may never feel ready, and that taking action is the only way to move forward.

Acknowledging this truth can be empowering. By recognising that we will never feel ready, we can focus on taking action despite our fears and doubts. We can also seek support from others and learn from our mistakes along the way.

9. Impermanence of Life:

Every single person you love will die, or you die first. This is perhaps one of the most uncomfortable truths of all, as it forces us to confront the impermanence of life. No matter how much we love someone, or how much they love us, we will eventually have to say goodbye.

In Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna that everything in the material world is temporary and subject to change. He explains that our bodies, relationships, possessions, and even our thoughts and emotions are all temporary and fleeting. This impermanence is known as "Anitya" in Sanskrit.

Krishna teaches that attachment to the impermanent things of the material world leads to suffering, and that the true nature of the self is eternal and unchanging. He encourages Arjuna to focus on the eternal self rather than the temporary material world.

The uncomfortable truth of impermanence can be difficult to accept, as it challenges our attachment to the things we value in life. However, the Bhagavad Gita teaches that by recognising the impermanence of everything in the material world, we can free ourselves from attachment and find inner peace and contentment.

Embracing the uncomfortable truths about life can be daunting, but it's a necessary step towards personal growth and understanding. It takes courage and a willingness to face the discomfort head-on, but the rewards are immeasurable. By acknowledging these truths, we can work on improving ourselves, taking action towards our goals, and living life to the fullest. It's essential to remember that uncomfortable truths are not meant to discourage us, but rather to inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves. So let's embrace the uncomfortable truths, learn from them, and use them to fuel our personal growth and transformation.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

Your Room is externalisation of Your Mind

Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt a sense of calm or unease? It's not uncommon for a person's living space to reflect their innermost thoughts, emotions, and habits. This idea has been explored by psychologists and therapists for decades, and it can have a significant impact on a person's mental health and well-being.

The state of your living space can provide insight into your personality, emotions, and habits. For example, a cluttered and disorganized room can indicate a lack of organisation or a reluctance to let go of things. Conversely, an overly tidy room can be a sign of obsessive-compulsive tendencies or a need for control. A room that is decorated with bright colours and bold patterns can suggest a lively and outgoing personality, while a room with neutral tones and minimalist decor can indicate a more reserved and introspective nature.

Furthermore, the state of your room can have a significant impact on your mental health. A cluttered and disorganised space can lead to feelings of overwhelm and stress, which can, in turn, exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. On the other hand, a clean and well-organised room can promote a sense of calm and control, which can have a positive impact on your mental well-being.

So, why is it that our living spaces so often mirror our inner states? It's because our physical environments have a powerful influence on our emotions and behaviours. When our surroundings are chaotic and cluttered, it can be difficult to relax and feel at ease. This can lead to stress and feelings of overwhelm, which can then affect our overall mood and productivity.

On the other hand, when our spaces are clean and well-organised, it can be much easier to relax and feel at peace. This can contribute to a sense of calm and clarity, which can then lead to increased focus and productivity. By taking the time to create a peaceful and inviting environment that supports your mental and emotional well-being, you can improve your overall quality of life.

So, the next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take a look at your living space. If it's cluttered and disorganised, it may be time to spend some time decluttering and tidying up. Not only will this help to improve the appearance of your space, but it can also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being.

Decluttering doesn't just mean getting rid of things you don't need or want or stuffing everything away in cupboards or drawers; it also means keeping the things you do have in their proper place. This can be as simple as putting things back where they belong after using them. This habit of consistently keeping things in their designated spots can be incredibly helpful in maintaining a clean and organised living space.

It's important to note that organising your space is not a one-time task. It's an ongoing process that requires basic discipline.

So, start small and make it a habit for a peaceful mind.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

ChatGPT: Advantages, Flaws & User guide of a potential Google killer

As a technology enthusiast, I find the current decade to be most fascinating & it has become further more interesting with lates developments in AI. For a commoner like me, the journey of AI started with Chatbots & since then it has come a long way, and recent advances in natural language processing have made them even more effective .

From a simple rule-based systems, it has become a highly sophisticated tool by advancement into natural language processing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

While researching I found that the first chatbot, called ELIZA, was created by Joseph Weizenbaum in 1966 at MIT. ELIZA used a simple rule-based system to simulate a psychotherapist, responding to user’s  messages with pre-programmed phrases and questions. While ELIZA was limited in its ability to understand natural language, it was still groundbreaking in its ability to mimic human conversation.

Over the years, chatbots evolved into more sophisticated systems, using machine learning and natural language processing to understand and respond to user inquiries. Early examples of these chatbots include ALICE and SmarterChild, which were popular in the early days of instant messaging.

Today, AI chatbots are becoming increasingly sophisticated and intelligent, thanks to recent advances in deep learning and natural language processing. Modern chatbots can understand complex natural language queries, detect sentiment and emotion, and provide more personalised responses.

And ChatGPT, the latest talk of town is one example of a highly sophisticated chatbot, a language model developed by OpenAI. ChatGPT uses a variant of the Transformer architecture to generate human-like responses to user queries. The model is trained on massive amounts of text data, allowing it to understand a wide variety of topics and generate responses that are both accurate and natural-sounding.

ChatGPT is backed by likes of Elon Musk & Bill Gates. Soon there will be many more such tools, both from existing players like Amazon, Google & perhaps also from some unknown upcoming startup working in this field. Whatever the case may be but 2023 will be the defining year, when Google in its present form would die and search would not be the same as we know it today.

One of the main benefits of AI chatbot based searches is their ability to provide fast, efficient & user-specific responses in a conversationalist way.

They have ability to personalise interactions, can detect sentiment and emotion, which allows them to tailor their responses to the user's emotional state. They also use machine learning to learn about user’s preferences and provide more relevant recommendations.

While AI chatbots have many benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is they lack of empathy which can lead to a poor experience, particularly in cases where users have complex or emotional issues. 

Another potential drawback is the difficulty in understanding and interpreting colloquial language. Chatbots may struggle with slang, regional dialects, and other forms of informal language, leading to inaccurate or irrelevant responses.

As the only AI tool available for public usage, we could find all the above flaws in ChatGPT & one more rather most irritating drawback is that, it can be repetitive & redundant in its responses. Other problem is that currently ChatGPT’s responses are limited to the information it has until September 2021only, though it is continuously learning through its various interactions.

All of this makes it little tricky to get the best out of this otherwise wonderful platform. I have figured out certain ways to use ChatGPT effectively & sharing it here:

Define the scope and goals of your conversation: Before using ChatGPT, it's important to define the scope and goals of your conversation. ChatGPT is a general-purpose language model, which means it can discuss a wide range of topics. However, it's important to ensure that the conversation stays on topic and meets your specific goals.

Provide clear instructions: When using ChatGPT, it's important to provide clear instructions and prompts. The language model is capable of generating a wide range of responses, but it needs specific guidance to ensure it generates relevant and useful information.

Monitor and adjust the model's performance: Like all AI systems, ChatGPT can make mistakes and generate inaccurate or irrelevant responses. To use ChatGPT effectively, it's important to monitor its performance and adjust the model's inputs and settings as needed to improve its accuracy.

Train the model on relevant data: ChatGPT's accuracy and relevance depend on the quality and relevance of the training data used to train the model. To use ChatGPT effectively, it's important to train the model on relevant and high-quality data to ensure that it generates accurate and useful responses.

Use the appropriate level of language: ChatGPT is capable of generating responses at a wide range of language levels, from informal to technical. When using ChatGPT, it's important to use the appropriate level of language to ensure that the conversation is clear and understandable.

Having said that, while ChatGPT can generate impressive content, it's important to remember that (as of now), the output may not always be perfect, as currently its databaseAnd to convert this into a high-quality content, requires a subject-matter expert, who can carefully read through the content, identify areas that need improvement, make edits, revisions, and refine the text.

ChatGPT’s own assessment about itself:

“As an artificial intelligence language model, I don't have emotions, thoughts or feelings in the way that humans do, so I don't have "weaknesses" in the traditional sense. However, like any technology, I have limitations in terms of what I can and can't do. For example, while I can understand and respond to a wide range of questions and prompts, my responses are based on patterns in the data that I've been trained on, and I may not always be able to provide accurate or complete information in response to more complex or nuanced queries. Additionally, I don't have access to information that isn't available on the internet, so I may not be able to provide information that hasn't been published or made available online. Nonetheless, I am constantly improving and evolving as new data and training techniques become available, and I strive to provide the best possible assistance to those who interact with me.”

To conclude, AI is not going to replace humans (not anytime soon at least)… BUT we as Humans, need to up our game by constantly up-skilling ourselves to stay relevant in this fast changing world.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

The effective way of learning, retaining & teaching.

As a learner myself & as a father, I have always been on the lookout for effective study techniques that can help retain information and improve understanding of various subjects.

And boy, was I ecstatic when I stumbled upon the Feynman Technique! - a simple yet powerful tool named after the late physicist Richard Feynman. In this blog, I'll be sharing my understanding on the Feynman Technique and how it can be used to improve learning.

The Feynman Technique involves explaining a concept in your own words as if you were teaching it to someone else. This simple exercise can help you identify any gaps in your knowledge and clarify your understanding. By actively engaging with the material, you are also strengthening your understanding and preparing yourself for real-world communication and teaching.

Here's how to use the Feynman Technique:

Choose a subject: Start by choosing a subject or concept that you want to understand better.

Explain it: Write out an explanation of the subject, as if you were teaching it to someone who has never heard of it before. Make sure to use simple, everyday language and avoid jargon or technical terms.

Identify gaps: If you find yourself struggling to explain a particular aspect of the subject, this could be a sign that you have a gap in your understanding. Go back to your sources and study that part of the subject more thoroughly.

Refine: Repeat the process of explaining the subject in your own words until you feel confident and comfortable doing so.

I have personally used the Feynman Technique and have seen a significant improvement in my understanding and retention of the subject. 

The technique can be applied to any subject, and I highly recommend giving it a try.

Some use-case scenarios for the Feynman Technique include:

Studying for exams: By explaining a concept in your own words, you can test your understanding and identify any areas that need improvement.

Career development: By practicing the Feynman Technique, you can develop your communication skills and become better equipped to explain complex ideas to others.

Lifetime learning: The Feynman Technique is not just for students and learners, but for anyone looking to improve their understanding of any subject. Whether you're exploring a new hobby or learning about a new topic, the Feynman Technique can help you deepen your knowledge.

In Katha Upanishad (a Hindu scripture), a similar teaching can be found  where the concept of "Nididhyasana" is discussed. Nididhyasana involves continuously reflecting and meditating on a particular truth or knowledge until it becomes firmly established in one's mind and leads to realisation. Both encourage one to deeply engage with a subject and reflect on it until a deep understanding is achieved.

The continuous reflection and meditation in Nididhyasana helps the individual internalise the knowledge and arrive at a more profound understanding, much like the repeated explanation in the Feynman Technique leads to a deeper understanding of the subject.

In conclusion, the Feynman Technique is a simple but effective tool for enhancing understanding. By forcing yourself to explain a concept in simple terms, you can identify areas that need further study and arrive at a deeper understanding of the material to achieve a greater level of mastery.

So, next time you're struggling to understand a complex idea, try using the Feynman Technique and see if it helps you to clarify your thinking and arrive at a deeper understanding of the subject.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

Insecurity: Understanding and Overcoming a Complex Emotion

Insecurity is a complex emotion that is often underestimated in its impact on our lives. It is not simply a feeling of self-doubt or uncertainty, but can manifest as a range of negative thoughts and behaviours that impact our relationships, mental and physical health, and overall well-being. Insecurity can stem from various sources such as past experiences, societal pressure, and comparisons with others. It can be a result of a lack of confidence, fear of failure, or feelings of inferiority.

Signs of Insecurity:

Low self-esteem and self-worth

Seeking validation from others

Perfectionism and fear of failure

Difficulty accepting compliments

Constant comparisons with others

Negative self-talk and rumination

Avoiding new challenges and experiences

Difficulty setting boundaries and expressing oneself

The Repercussions of Insecurity:

Insecurity can have far-reaching impacts on an individual's life, including affecting their career, personal relationships, and financial stability. It can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Insecurity can also cause individuals to make choices that negatively impact their lives & their relationships.

Dealing with Insecurity:

Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, instead of criticising and berating yourself.

Focus on your strengths: Make a list of your positive qualities and accomplishments and remind yourself of them regularly.

Challenge negative self-talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive and realistic ones.

Practice gratitude: Focus on the good in your life instead of dwelling on the bad.

Surround yourself with supportive people: Seek out friends and family members who lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.

Engage in self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional needs to boost your overall well-being.

Seek professional help: If your insecurity is affecting your daily life, consider seeking the help of a therapist or counsellor.

Dealing with Insecured People:

Listen to their concerns: Let them express their feelings without judgment.

Validate their experiences: Acknowledge their struggles and emotions.

Encourage them to focus on their strengths: Help them see their positive qualities and accomplishments.

Be supportive: Offer to be there for them when they need someone to talk to.

Avoid negative comparisons: Refrain from making comparisons that might make them feel worse about themselves.

Recognising and Trusting a Well-Wisher:

Insecurities can make it challenging for individuals to trust others, but it is essential to have at least one person in our lives whom we can trust and rely on for support. To recognise a well-wisher, look for someone who consistently shows compassion and understanding, encourages you to focus on your strengths, and offers support without judgment. And there is no bigger testament of a well-wisher & their genuine care and concern that they are staying put, despite being getting frustrated & irritated with the behaviour of an insecure person. Once you have identified such a person, it is important to trust them and open up to them about your insecurities.

In conclusion, insecurity is a common struggle that can have profound impacts on an individual's life. By practicing self-compassion, focusing on one's strengths, and seeking support, individuals can overcome insecurity and live fulfilling lives. As Bhagwad Gita states in Chapter 2, Verse 55: "One who has conquered the mind, the mind is their best friend, for one who has failed to do so, their mind will remain the greatest enemy." By taming our mind and focusing on our thoughts and actions, we can overcome insecurity and live in peace.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

Road Trip -  A Therapy worth exploring

Road trips are the epitome of adventure and freedom, and the journey truly is more important than the destination. I have taken many road trips over the years, and each one has been a unique and therapeutic experience.

The first time I went on a road trip, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. The idea of hitting the open road and exploring new places was thrilling. As soon as I got behind the wheel and started driving, I felt a sense of liberation and peace. The road was mine to conquer, and the journey was mine to enjoy.

Among many other things, Road Trips offers:

Stress relief: When I'm on a Road Trip, I can feel the tension melting away from my body. The open road is a perfect escape from the daily grind, and I can take a deep breath, relax, and forget about my worries.

Time to think: Road Trips provide me with the opportunity to reflect and think. I can think about my life, work, and relationships, or simply enjoy my own thoughts. It's a time to recharge and find clarity.

Scenic routes: Going on a Road Trip allows me to experience the beauty of nature and the changing landscapes. I've seen some truly breath-taking views on my road trips, and I always appreciate the simple things in life like a stunning sunset or a majestic mountain range.

Bonding with loved ones: Road trips are so therapeutic is that they provide a chance to escape the daily grind and connect with loved ones. Whether I'm on the road with my spouse, kids, or close friends, we always seem to have deep conversations and make memories that will last a lifetime. The bond we form on these trips is truly special and something I will always cherish.

Adventure: Road Trips can be an adventure in and of themselves. I love exploring new roads and destinations, creating my own unique journey, and experiencing the thrill of the unknown.

Food: Road Trips offers you the variety & taste of the local cuisine along the geography you are passing through, which again is a great way of learning about their culture, food habits. You will be amazed to know that how a simplest of dish like “Dal Tadka” would taste absolutely different from one found in Punjab’s Dhaba, Rajasthan’s Dhaba, Uttarakhand’s Dhaba or in any other part of India.

Finally, Road Trips are an adventure in and of themselves. The excitement of the unknown, the thrill of discovering new places, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a long journey are all reasons why road trips are so enjoyable. I love the freedom of the open road and the sense of independence that comes with it.

In conclusion, if you haven't gone on a road trip before, I highly recommend it.

The journey truly is more important than the destination, and the experience is one that you will never forget. So, grab your friends or family, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!

Trust me, you won't regret it.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

Exam Pressure

This is exam season in India for students of almost of ages & with exam comes “Pressure”. Pressure comes from the thought of performing well for one self & for many others like, Immediate Family, Distant Family, Friends, Classmates, Teachers, etc to count a few. 

While some pressure can be beneficial in motivating students to study and perform well, excessive pressure can have negative consequences on their physical and mental health. It is important for parents to understand the effects of exam pressure on their children and take steps to maintain a balance between pressure and support.

On the positive side, exam pressure can be a motivator for students to work harder and perform better. It can help them develop time management skills, improve their focus and concentration, and increase their self-discipline. Studies have shown that a moderate amount of pressure can lead to improved academic performance and higher test scores.

However, excessive pressure can have negative consequences on children's physical and mental health. Children who are under excessive pressure may experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and stress. They may also have difficulty sleeping, experience fatigue, and have a lack of appetite. These symptoms can lead to a decline in their academic performance and overall well-being.

Parents can play a critical role in helping their children to manage exam pressure. One of the most important things parents can do is to communicate with their children and understand their concerns. Parents can also provide emotional support and encouragement to their children during the exam period. They can also help their children to develop good study habits, such as setting up a study schedule, breaking up study sessions into manageable chunks, and taking breaks to rest and relax.

Parents can also help their children to maintain a positive attitude towards exams. They can remind their children that exams are just one part of their education and that there are many other opportunities for success in life. They can also help their children to set realistic goals for their academic performance and celebrate their achievements along the way.

However, Pressure is not just limited to academic pursuits. Pressure can come from many sources and can have both positive and negative effects regardless of the field or area of interest.

When a person is pursuing something they are truly passionate about, the pressure they feel is often self-motivated and can be a driving force for success. However, when a person is pressured to pursue something they are not interested in or do not have a natural inclination towards, it can lead to negative effects such as lack of motivation, low self-esteem, and burnout.

It is important for parents and caregivers to understand their children's interests and passions, and to encourage and support them in pursuing those interests. By doing so, they can help their children to develop a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their pursuits, leading to a more positive experience of pressure.

On the other hand, it is also important to understand that pressure is a natural part of life and is an inevitable part of achieving success in any field. Positive pressure can be a motivator and can help a person to push through challenges and overcome obstacles. It can also lead to personal growth and development.

To help maintain a balance of pressure, parents and caregivers can encourage their children to set realistic goals, and to break down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. They can also provide support and guidance to help their children develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. Additionally, they can encourage their children to take care of their physical and mental well-being, through adequate rest, healthy diet, and regular physical activity.

Bhagavad Gita teaches us the best way to handle any kind of pressure by performing one’s Karma (actions) without being attached to the fruits of those actions. By not being attached to the outcome, one can maintain equanimity in all situations & is able to perform their duty without feeling pressure or stress.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay at INR 299 only

[akshayyj]

Building a Stronger Marriage & Addressing increasing Break-Ups: A Man’s Perspective

“Behind every successful Man, there’s a Woman” & “Behind every unsuccessful relationship, there's a woman too”

In both the statements above, it’s not necessarily a rule. But it is high time, that along with all the appreciations, someone starts taking the flak too...

In today’s modern world, largely everything is seen through a woman’s stand point & after centuries of suffering there’s nothing wrong in that though.

But, in any healthy relationship, both partners should feel fulfilled and satisfied. However, it is important to remember that each person's needs and desires may be different. Here are a few things that many men might consider important in a relationship:

Respect: Men, like anyone else, want to be treated with respect by their partners. This means being listened to, considered, and valued.

Support: Men often want to feel supported by their partners in their goals and endeavours. This can be in the form of emotional support, encouragement, or practical help.

Affection: Physical touch and affection can be important for many men in a relationship. This can include things like holding hands, cuddling, and being affectionate in public.

Communication: Communication is important in any relationship, and men often want to feel that they can talk openly and honestly with their partners about their thoughts, feelings, and needs.

Quality time: Spending quality time together is important for many men in a relationship. This can be going out on dates, having deep conversations, or just enjoying each other's company or even simpler, having at least one meal together.

Trust: Trust is an essential component of any healthy relationship, and men often want to feel that they can trust their partners with their feelings, thoughts, and actions.

Listening: Men value being heard and having their partners listen to their perspective is a big reliever for them.

Same complaints getting built up over time: Men does not like to complain again & again for thee same things. So the absence of any change or redressal would lead a man first in to shell & eventually out of the relationship.

Not getting proper appreciation for what Men do in/for the relationship: Appreciation is a two way street. As much as a wife wants appreciation, likewise a man also wants to feel appreciated and valued in their relationships. If a man feels like he is not being appreciated for his efforts, it can lead him to feeling unfulfilled and unhappy.

Other females (colleagues, friends, exes) in a Man’s lives doesn't necessarily mean they are unfaithful. It's important to trust and have faith in your partner. Mistrusts leads to misunderstandings & misunderstandings breaks the strongest of relationships.

Men’s opinions and suggestions don't mean they think any less of their wives or that they are getting judgemental. Most of the times it is well intended & to save their life partners from any possible harm, so It's important to listen to and consider your partner's perspective, even if you don't necessarily agree with it. This can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust and respect in the relationship.

All of these may look a like a big list of expectations, but in reality all of these boils down to 3 basic things which are Respect, Trust & Spending time together everyday (It could be as little as 10 minutes a day). In absence of all this relationship suffers, which may trigger a man to opt out of a relationship.

It is worth noting that these are just a few examples, and every person's needs in a relationship may be different. 

As per Bhagawad Gita, marriage is a sacred bond between two individuals, where both partners should strive to support each other in all aspects of life, including spiritual growth.

It’s not one man’s (literally) job to steer forward the relationship… It takes two to tango.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay

[akshayyj]

Teaching Good Values to Children

As parents, it is our responsibility to guide and shape our children's values and behaviours. One of the most important things we can do is to model and teach our children the qualities that we hope they will embody as they grow and develop.

One of the worst things we can do is to teach our children to be cunning, shrewd, or mean. These are not positive or desirable qualities, and they can have a negative impact on our children's relationships and overall well-being. Instead of teaching our children to be manipulative or selfish, we should strive to teach them to be sporting, humble, well-behaved, and selfless.

Teaching our children to be sporting means that we encourage them to be fair and gracious in their interactions with others. This includes being willing to compete fairly, to respect the rules of the game, and to be gracious in victory and defeat.

Teaching our children to be humble means that we encourage them to be modest and to recognise the limitations of their own abilities. This can help them to develop a healthy sense of self-awareness and to be more open to learning from others.

Teaching our children to be well-behaved means that we encourage them to be respectful, obedient, and considerate of others. This can help them to develop strong relationships and to be more successful in their personal and professional lives.

Finally, teaching our children to be selfless means that we encourage them to put the needs of others before their own. This can help them to develop a sense of compassion and to be more empathetic towards others.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, it is important to teach good values to our children. The Gita teaches that our children are a reflection of us, and that it is our responsibility to guide and shape their values and behaviours.

So, It is not enough to simply tell our children what is right and wrong; we must also lead by example and show them how to live a virtuous and fulfilling life.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay

[akshayyj]

Stay connected with your Parents

As we grow older and become more independent, it can be easy to take our loved ones for granted. We may become busy with our own lives and priorities, and may not make as much time for our parents as we did when we were younger. However, it is important to remember that our parents have played a significant role in our lives, and it is important to remain in constant contact with them.

If you are lucky enough to still have one or both of your parents alive, it is important to make an effort to stay in touch with them on a regular basis. This can mean calling them more often, or making an effort to visit them in person if possible. It is also important to let your parents know that you love them, and to show your appreciation for all that they have done for you.

In addition to staying in touch with your parents, it is also important to listen to them and give them the time and attention they need. This can be especially important as they get older and may have more time to talk and share stories. By making an effort to listen to your parents and engage with them, you can show them that you value their experiences and wisdom.

According to the Gita, parents are to be respected and honored as they have given us life and have helped to shape and guide us.

The Gita teaches that our parents are to be treated with the same respect and devotion as a deity. It is believed that by showing respect and devotion to our parents, we can gain the blessings of the gods and achieve success in this life and in future incarnations.

In addition to the spiritual importance of parents, the Gita also emphasizes the practical role they play in our lives. Our parents are responsible for providing for our needs and supporting us as we grow and develop. They are our first teachers and play a vital role in shaping our values and beliefs.

In conclusion, it is important to remain in constant contact with your parents and to make an effort to stay connected with them as you grow older. This can be as simple as making regular phone calls, visiting them in person, or simply taking the time to listen to them and engage with them. By showing your love and appreciation for your parents, you can strengthen your relationship, create lasting memories together & lay strong foundation for the future generations.

https://imojo.in/GitaKaAks - eBook on Bhagwad Gita by Akshay

[akshayyj]

The History & significance of Earthen Pottery

The earthen pots can be dated back to the start of human civilisation & existed since time immemorial.

Various shapes & sizes of earthen pots were discovered from the excavation of Harappan & Mohenjedaro sites in Indian sub-continent, which are one of the oldest civilisation found till date. The earthen Pots are also found to be used by Mayans civilisation in Egypt & by Greek & Roman civilisations in Europe.

The fact that the earthen pots are found from the excavation of thousands of year old civilisations proves not just their durability but also their rich heritage. Pottery is found to be the oldest form of handicraft which has   proved its mettle for thousands of years now & which has evolved over a period of time & can largely be classified in to 3 types:

1. Earthenware: It is the oldest form of pottery which has largely maintained its originality & stood the test of time. It follows the simple but laborious process wherein after giving the desired shape to the clay, the potter heats it into relatively high temperature (around 900 celsius). This heating causes the change of the colour to brown, black & reddish-brown depending on the type of clay used. The iron content present in the clay causes the change in colour to reddish-brown & this reddish-brown earthen pot is also known as Terracotta.

2. Stoneware: Around 2600 BC there was drastic evolution in the pottery, it was found that when the clay pot is heated between 1100 Celsius  to 1300 Celsius, it makes it non-porous & makes it hard like stone.

3. Porcelain: This is relatively modern form of pottery, which can be dated back to 1600 BC. Porcelain is made if inorganic compound of metalloid & non-metal with ionic bonds heated upto the temperature of 1400 celsius. Porcelain can be divided into 3 categories, namely:            a) Hard Paste            b) Soft Pate            c) Bone China (Which also bone ashes of animals)

Benefits of Earthenware: 1. Retains Nutrition of Food: As earthen/clay pots are porous in nature, it allows both moisture & heat to circulate through the food which retains the nutrition of the food & for the meat lovers, cooking meat in clay pots keeps it soft & tender. 2. Retains Minerals of the food & neutralises the pH balance: Once the acidity present in the foods reacts with the Alkaline present in the clay, the pH balance gets neutralises which makes the food tastes better & healthier too. Various studies have found that cooking in clay pots provides the many beneficial minerals to the human body like calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus & sulphur. 3. Good for heart: The cooking in clay pot requires No or very little oil, as it is naturally resistant to the heat which slows down the speed of cooking, hence it helps in retaining the the natural oil & moisture of the food. 4. Enhances the natural aroma of the food: Because of the slow cooking & porous nature of the clay, the pot retains the natural moisture & aroma of the food which gets further enhanced by the earthen flavour of the clay. 5. Economical & Environment Friendly: Earthen pots are light, both on pocket & environment, which is of extreme importance for the time & age we are living in. The clay pots are 100% biodegradable & if handled well can last really long.

Harmful effects of modern day utensils: 1. Harmful effects of Melamine crockery/utensils: Melamine is a chemical used to make plastic products harder & durable. Various Food safety organisations globally have ascertained that Melamine crockery/utensils should not be used for infants, young kids and it should be refrained for using for highly acidic food & for hot food too. 2. Harmful effects of Aluminium crockery/utensils: It is always advisable to avoid cooking in Aluminium, as it heats up very fast & reacts easily with acidic food which can be harmful for the human body. 3. Harmful effects of Stainless Steel utensils: Stainless Steel is a metal alloy made of mixture of Nickel, Silicon, Chromium & Carbon and even the slightest disbalance of this mixture can proved to be harmful for the body. 4. Harmful effects of Non-stick cookwares: Non-stick cookwares are coated with Teflon, containing cadmium & mercury which can create serious heath issues like cancer, heart disease & longer usage of the same can also result in mental & nerve disorder.

The Best way to use Earthen Pots: 1. The new earthenware should be dipped in water for 3-4 hours before the first usage.

2. Later it should be dipped in water for 15-20 minutes before every use.

3. Maintain same temperature while cooking, preferably the temperature not more then 190 Celsius to 250 Celsius

4. Cook the food in earthenware for 15-20 minutes longer then the regular utensil.

5. Never add cold water or vegetables in between the cooking.

6. As with all the utensils be careful while the clay pot is hot.

Drawback of using the Earthenware: 1. They being fragile in nature, needs little extra care while handling like the glassware.

2. It takes longer to cook in clay pots.

But it is a sure shot way for healthy life both for the human body & Mother Earth.

[akshayyj]

Meri Betiyaan

Titliyon si udti meri betiyaan,

Pakshiyo si chehchahti hain,

Hirni si kudti faandti hain,

Itni Chanchal aur Chapal hain,

par mere jiwan ka thehrav hain.

Titliyon si udti meri betiyaan...

Galat höga yeh kehna ki woh meri jaan hain,

kesi bhi abhivyakti iss rishte ke Aage bejaan hain,

Itna samajhiye ki woh mera wajood, meri pehchaan hain,

Aur Ishwar ka diya ek wardaan hain.

Titliyon si udti meri betiyaan...

Mujhe mere hone ka ehsaas dilati hain,

Naraaj hoti hain par jald hi maan jaati hain,

Pyaar bhi aisa nishchal,

jaise ganga ka aviral jal.

Apna pyar kuch iss tarah jatati hain,

Kehti hain Papa ka kam baalo wala style bhi kamal hain.

Titliyon si udti meri betiyaan...