City Scope Edition 17

Dr. Kulddeep Buttar CEO, Buttar Group of Companies

Dear Readers,

We are living in an age that's marked by impeccable connectivity and technological advancement; the one where entrepreneurship is booming. As digital platforms and communication tools become more accessible and information is free-flowing, budding entrepreneurs have plentiful opportunities to turn their ideas into reality. From hectic metropolitan cities to remote villages, people are now eager to venture out. In this era, entrepreneurship is a robust driving force for economic growth, social change, and progress around the globe.

As startups and technological advancements are emerging at warp speed, Hong Kong stands as a revered centre. Being one of Asia's largest financial hubs, this city oozes with opportunities and it is here that ideas can be transformed into reality at the speed of thought. It is well recognised that Hong Kong's financial prowess plays an invaluable role in shaping the global economy. Owing to its strategic location, sturdy regulatory framework, and unmatched connectivity, the city is also a sought-after launchpad for startups, attracting investors, talent, and possibilities from every corner of the globe.

With this ongoing trend in view, this issue features the visionary behind Maxam International Limited, Maxx Aswani. Bringing in a wave of novelty and resilience in the world of global trade, Aswani rose from humble beginnings and has continued to put his best foot forward towards soaring heights. Let's uncover more about him in this edition.

On that note, I wish all our readers joy and fulfilment on every step of your way through this edition. Happy reading!

Kulddeep Buttar

CONTRIBUTORS

APURVAMENON

GAURI

is passionate about travel, animals, and everything sustainable. Carries an experience that is a perfect amalgamation of hospitality and digital marketing.

is an incurable optimist and a self-proclaimed wordsmith. She is passionate about painting and writing. You will find her surrounded by plants, humming timeless tunes.

SAHIBAVAID

is a certified life coach, cognitive behaviour therapist, neuro-linguistic practitioner, and a motivational speaker. She is also the founder of Aesthetic Horizons by S&S.

SUMRITBUTTAR

is an explorer who wants to know more about digital innovation. He completed his graduation in Public Health with minors in Business Administration from SFU.

ASTHAANAND

is a therapist and the founder of theperspectiveco. Best described as a learner learning to unlearn and relearn. She is on a mission to normalise therapy and create awareness.

IUSHEMAGOO

is an avid reader and a photography enthusiast. She is keen on creating content from the heart. You’ll find that her quips and quirks are as unique as the spelling of her name.

SAHILMAGOO

is the Editor of the magazine. He completed his master's in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong and has worked with several media houses.

DIKSHADOGRA

is a personality transformation coach and speaker. She helps people in reprogramming their subconscious mind to become a better version of themselves and live a joyful life.

MANJULAVIJH

is a food photographer and stylist. A PhD holder, she has been an academician for 14 years. She is currently pursuing her passion as a food, product, and lifestyle photographer.

SHIVI

VIDHIARYA

is a lawyer by profession who is also studying French on the side. She is a dog mom, a travel enthusiast, and inquisitive towards local crafts and handlooms.

is a storyteller who is passionate about writing. She completed her master's in English Literature from Ambedkar University and is currently teaching.

VINNIGUPTA

is a graphic designer by profession and a dancer by passion. She is a foodie, a die-hard K-drama fan, and a travel enthusiast who wants to learn new art forms.

"One

is not born, but rather becomes, a woman"

Since the dawn of time, we have heard stories of how women had to fight their way into the mainstream, even for the rights that we now consider absolutely basic. When women started to pen down their stories, some pieces of literature were so powerful that they forced the world to stop and ponder.

Here's a look at some of them

Feminist literature has existed for a long time in history. No matter whether it was recognised or not, it existed in its full form and led to a revolution when it came out in the open. Feminist movements began around the 18th Century when women decided to stand up for their basic voting or economic rights. Definitely, the movement was politically charged, but narratives, poems, and stories have helped the world understand the plight

of women. Narratives by women provide a different angle into the lives of subdued and oppressed individuals who talk about their situation through their pen. These stories are often abrupt and shocking for the common public, leading to changed phenomenons in society. Being so startling, such tales often face resistance from the side of the common public and at times, even constitutional trials. These are some of the short stories that have voiced women's opinions in a manner that the world watched silently.

Shivi

The Yellow Wallpaper by

Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1892)

Lauded as a work of horror fiction, Gilman's short story has served as an important work of early feminist literature. Revolving around a woman and her husband, this narrative highlights the ignorance that women face when it comes to their mental health. The plot revolves around a 'madwoman', suffering from 'temporary nervous depression'. She was confined to the four walls of the house by her husband as a cure for her ailment. Instead of engaging her in activities or making her feel loved, he closes the house doors, resulting in her obsession with the wallpaper, which she finds 'sickly' and 'bizarre'. As time passess, she comes to believe that a woman is coming out on all four limbs from the wallpaper and intends to help her. In doing that, she starts peeling off the wallpaper. What follows is an uncanny end to the tale, where she assumes herself to be the woman and crawls around the room.

Lihaaf by Ismat

Chughtai (1942)

This short story by Ismat Chughtai — a famous writer of her times — faced trial for obscenity. The story is known to be the first narrative talking about lesbianism in the Indian subcontinent. It also talks about the neglect that a woman faces in a feudal society, including sexual abuse. The tale is told from the point of view of a small girl, who is niece to the beautiful Begum Jaan, with a husband much older than her. Her husband, who was

famous for not going to any prostitutes, was later revealed to be doing so only because he was interested in men. Through the hours of the night, the narrator reveals the details of abuse and intended lesbianism, which is never revealed explicitly. The story was adapted to a critically acclaimed film 'Fire' by Deepa Mehta.

Sultana's Dream by Begum Rokeya (1905)

A Bengali, utopian story in English, this fantasy tale by Begum Rokeya revolves around a science fiction feminist utopia, 'Ladyland'. Here, roles are interchanged as women lead the world while men are secluded. Rokeya penned the tale while her husband was on tour. She tried to mirror the practice of 'purdah' in the parallel world. The women in this world are technologically proficient and have devised ways of labourless farming. In Ladyland, all crimes are eliminated as men are considered primarily responsible for them. Work day is only two-hour long, and religion only means love and purity. Kitchens have only organic food and cars fly. This fantasy fiction works as a sharp satire for the world to analyse the benefits and results of a world led by women.

another upper class creole French man. After their marriage, she delivers a baby, who happens to be black. Keeping in mind her unknown ancestry, he automatically assumes that she is the one who is responsible for the skin colour of the child. Despite many attempts at providing him with proof, he disregards her. Chopin uses the colour metaphor — black versus white, dirt versus purity, and the hypocrisy of people. The ending is groundbreaking as Désirée's husband's origins are also revealed to be black, while hers remain unknown. The conclusion throws light on how a woman's self-worth and identity are easily questioned not only by the world but also her own husband, whose trust breaks as she struggles to find her 'origins'.

A Jury of Her Peers

by Susan Glaspell (1917)

Désirée's Baby by Kate Chopin (1893)

Set during the antebellum era, Kate Chopin's short story captures the multiethnic relationships of Louisiana Creoles. Désirée, who is adopted by a French creole couple, grows up in a comfortable atmosphere and is eventually courted by

Narratives by women provide a different angle into the lives of subdued and oppressed individuals who talk about their situation through their pen. These stories are often abrupt and shocking for the common public, leading to changed phenomenons in society

Written by American novelist Susan Glaspell, this short story is loosely based on the 1900 murder of John Hossack. It revolves around the discovery and subsequent trial of John Wright's murder. The tale is seen as one of the prime examples of early feminist literature, as two female characters are able to solve what males cannot. The story begins on a cold day in a fictitious town — Dickson County, as Martha Hale is called to the scene of Wright's murder. The curious nature and focused attention to minute details allow the women to find evidence of Mrs. Wright's guilt and of her provocations and motives. On the other hand, the men are unable to gather any proper evidence. Critics have stated that Glaspell's story explores the concepts of the good and the bad, law versus justice, and the world of men versus women. The story was adapted into two suspensebased films as it provides an insight into an intricate female eye in the face of a male dominated detective world.

Gallivanting in Goa!

Popularly known as the "Party Capital of India", Goa is a paradise where one can experience their dream vacation in all possible ways

Iushe Magoo

How do you write a travel blog for a destination you visit every year? The answer lies in the intricate details captured from a fresh lens for the first timers, to quoting cult favorites and naming new trendy spots for the frequent visitors.

This destination is possibly the easiest to recognise when one talks of glistening blue sea, pristine beaches, a hippie-paradise during the 70s and 80s, and as the "Party Capital of India", it is one of the largest tourist grabbers. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is Goa!

Divided in two popular halves of North and South, Goa is bountiful and stretches far and wide, despite being the smallest Indian state. Encompassing beaches, forts, sanctuaries, churches, waterfalls, spice plantations, luxurious resorts, and many restaurants and bars; Goa's districts pack something of interest for one and all.

While South Goa reigns as the tranquil, rejuvenating, and regally demure queen,

Goa

North supersedes as the equally scenic, yet notorious and nocturnal fiesta king. Then of course, there's the learned saint, lying covered in artefacts, history, and all the vintage vibes is Velha or Old Goa.

North Goa

With so much to explore and do up north, it is a dire shame to miss out on this district when in Goa. The status of being the "Party Capital of India" is largely earned from North, for it is here that you'll find all the best night clubs, beach clubs, vibrant night markets, popular forts and of course a different, but equally stunning halve of beaches. Although, this is not to say that North is only good for those who want to party. Being a melting pot of civilisation, North Goa, with its rich history and culture,

ensures that there's enough and more activities to do, places to see, and food to taste to keep you enthralled for days.

Let's begin by listing all the restaurants and cafés worth visiting in North Goa:

Baba Au Rhum: Truly the hippest café you'll come across in Goa, with a cosy ambiance, great food, and quite the spread for breakfasts and brunch. This European restaurant in Anjuna is a must-visit.

Babka: This café in Anjuna hosts some of the best chocolate éclairs, bagels, hot chocolate, and is a hot spot for coffee lovers.

Bawri: New to the scene, this eatery in Anjuna is aesthetically pleasing and hosts one of the best fusions of modern and traditional Indian cuisine in the state.

Fat Fish: Akin to the yesteryear Goan charm, restaurants such as Fat Fish and Fisherman's Cove Bar and Restaurant (Candolim) possess local and Continental delicacies that are tasty and budget-friendly.

Gunpowder: A South Indian and Konkan cuisine delight, this quaint restaurant is situated in Assagao.

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church

Pisco by the Beach: Designed like a resort villa, this spot is another sundowner favourite in Anjuna.

Purple Martini: Sublime for sundowners, this beachside café is popular for its sunset views, range of cocktails and lively nights. This restaurant, located in Anjuna, offers Continental, Italian, Mediterranean, and North Indian cuisines.

The Black Sheep Bistro: Looking for a fine-dining restaurant? Then this restaurant in Panaji should be at the top of your list, for it is one of the most highly recommended restaurants to visit in Goa, with outstanding service, enchanting decor, and unparalleled fusion food.

The Lazy Goose: Located in Nerul, it is best known for its live singing, riverside ambience, and delectable drinks.

The entire Vagator belt of sea-facing restro-bars — big names such as Antares, Bo Tai, Noah, Romeo Lane, Titlie, and the newly opened Dubki, amongst others, are all located in a row, lining the stretch of Vagator Beach, each harbouring their share of crowd.

The list most certainly doesn't end here, for North Goa is a foodie's delight and hosts many such celebrated eateries, some hidden, some loudly lauded like the Burger Factory, Saz on the Beach, and Kiko Beach in Morjim, Calamari, Britto's and Las Olas at Baga Beach. Other notable mentions include Mayan

South Goa

Must we give the phrase "it went south" a negative connotation always? Certainly not when it comes to Goa! The tranquil queen of the aforementioned Goan districts is all things love, relaxation, and rejuvenation for those looking to travel slow. From old churches, art galleries, Portuguese-styled homes, pristine coastlines infused with traditional villages, to all the A-listed five-star hotels and resorts, South Goa is decidedly the district for a reposeful sojourn.

Here are some restaurants and cafés worth visiting in South Goa:

Boomerang Beach Bar: Even though South Goa is not known for its nightclubs and entertainment, Boomerang Beach Bar, located in Colva, does a pretty decent job in keeping your nights lively, especially with some of their lip-smacking cocktails.

Cavatina Cuchina: A gastronomical delight located in Benaulim, this restaurant is

Divided in two halves of North and South, Goa is bountiful and stretches far and wide. With forts, beaches, churches, waterfalls, and luxurious resorts, Goa packs something of interest for all

known for its reimagined Goan cuisine. The food's presentation and quality are both mesmerising to say the least.

Joecons Beach Shack: Benaulim hosts this treasure cove of a beach shack for all seafood lovers.

Mama Miso: Located in Arossim, this is the most popular Pan-Asian restaurant in Goa. Lip-smacking food and excellent service make it a must-visit spot.

Martin's Corner: One of the oldest and popular restaurants known for its authentic Goan delicacies and easy-breezy vibe, this place has former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, as a regular. Head to Betalbatim to discover this gem.

Pentagon: Located in Majorda, Pentagon is almost always packed with tourists owing to its seafood variety, lively ambience, and peppy entertainment.

Royal Afghan: Lying on the higher, fine-dining side, this private-beach facing restaurant is located within ITC Grand Goa (Arossim) and is an absolute delight to witness the symphony of Mughal flavours synchronising with the crisp sea air. Must-visit for those who like grilled and barbecued food.

Simrose: Located in the centre of Agonda Beach, the highlight of this restaurant is the neat and clean choices of food prepared and served, along with vegan-friendly picks.

The Farfalla Deck: This restaurant has amazing water views of both the Agonda Beach and the backwater river, needless to

Beach Club, Thalassa, Cream Choc, and Tomatoes

Goa houses a multitude of beaches that offer a perfect setting for your vacation Mayan Beach Club

say that it serves some of the best dishes and cocktails.

The Fisherman's Wharf: Just as its northern counterpart, Fisherman's Cove, the Wharf is famous for its local charm and sumptuous, pocket-friendly delicacies.

Of course, the list of eateries and bars in the South are aplenty too, with many reputed restaurants being housed under 5-star roofs, but we must now move on to discover sights to see and things to do in both these districts.

Surf the beaches

Whether it is to surf, swim, or partake in various water sports, beaches are at the top of the list for most Goa-goers. Up North, there are your commercial and overly popular beaches such as Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, and Candolim, but also some quaint and cleaner beaches like Ashvem,

Mandrem, and Morjim. South takes the crown when it comes to beaches. From the best and most popular beaches like Agonda, Benaulim, Cavelossim, and Colva to the lesser explored

Butterfly, Cola, Cabo de Rama, and Mobor, the beaches and skylines are painted like a pure work of art each day.

Hit the slots

With Goa having legalised casinos, a huge chunk of the country's tourists visit Goa every year to hit the slots and try their luck. A gambler's paradise, Panjim hosts a range of casinos like Deltin Royale, Casino Pride, Big Daddy Casino, etc., featuring several games like poker, slots, roulette, teen patti (three-card game). These casinos also offer food and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) with your entry ticket. Various forms of entertainment like singing and dancing performances are also a part of the package to keep the guests engaged till the wee hours.

Some fish and chips with a view

Fort Aguada, originally constructed in 1612 by the Portuguese, overlooks the Arabian sea Soaking in the Sun on the streets

Sightseeing

Be the quintessential tourist and set out to explore some historical sites like Chapora and Aguada Fort, see churches and cathedrals like the church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Se Cathedral in old Goa, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Basilica de Bom Jesus or the Tomb of St. Francis Xavier (the tomb is brought down in the church every 10 years, and tourists can view the tomb this year itself). Visit Margao — the commercial and cultural capital of South Goa.

Tropical spice plantations

Who knew that Goa would also be well-known for having one of the oldest tropical plantations? Savoi Ponda,

Being in this State is like being in a state of delirium, you are never fully aware of all that is happening around you, yet the level of happiness you feel by just being here is impalpable

flea markets, such as the Anjuna Flea Market, Baga Beach and Candolim Beach Flea Markets, the Calangute Market square, as well as plenty seasonal and visit-worthy night markets like Mackie's Night Bazaar and Ingo's Saturday Night Market. You'll find trendy beachwear, swimsuits, crochet, and jute work, shelled accessories almost everywhere in Goa. For more refined shoppers, Goa has some hip malls like Mall de Goa, Caculo Mall, and Valanka Shopping Mall, where you can find several retails brands.

But for party lovers who want to continue the party back home, when they disembark their return flight too, my pro-tip would be to buy the local delicacies and a range of spirits easily available in the Goan supermarkets like Newton and Delfino's (at port prices) that may otherwise be unavailable back home.

approx. 25kms from Panjim, has a myriad of intercropping spices with coconuts, pineapple, betel nuts, and other fruits. Though I haven't personally crossed this location off my list yet, I am keen to pay this location a visit during one of my next visits, especially to see the partly submerged Ananta Temple in Savoi Verem that lies enroute.

Shopping!

I know it's a rhetorical question, but how does one travel to any city, town, or state and not shop? Be it some souvenirs, trinkets, indigenous products, or accessories and clothes, there's something to take back for everyone. Goa is replete with charming

Goan delicacies to buy: Cashews (remember the spice plantation mentioned before, there is a whole factory dedicated to cashews nearby). Feni (Goa's local wine prepared from cashews). Bebinca and Dodol (Portugueseinfluenced Goan desserts), snacks and namakeens like rice flour chakri or murukku. In high spirits: Cabo (coconut rum), Pistola (a high-quality agave tequila), King's Beer (Goa's very own beer), Samsara (gin), Doja (premium-crafted gin), and liqueurs such as Limoncello.

There are many restaurants, markets, alleys, and places, that haven't been covered in this article, some known to yours truly, some unknown still. But being in this State is like being in a state of delirium, you are never fully aware of all that is happening around you, yet the level of happiness you feel by just being here is impalpable! This has been an ode of sorts to my favourite travel destination of all time — Goa.

The Royal Afghan is a must-visit for those who like grilled/barbecued food

Did you know? Therapy can be fun!

For a really long time therapy has been a taboo subject. While many seek help to cope with life, lack of credible information and fear of strict and formal therapists remain a huge impediment. But here's how therapy is not just helpful but it can also be pleasurable

Astha Anand

Life can be a crazy roller-coaster ride and bring in moments of anxiety and sadness. While it is natural to happen, it is not easy navigating alone. The only person with the rightful authority and expertise who can be your best support in times of uncertainty is your therapist. And, your therapist wants you to know something — they are cool! There is a common misconception and fear around therapists that they are formal, calm, and poised. It is almost as if therapists have everything figured.

Life may be tough, and sometimes so is therapy. We all know by now that therapy is no joke. It is an all-consuming affair. It consumes your energy and emotions.

It makes you tick and think, makes you wander more, understand yourself, interact better with people, communicate with clarity, and what not. But therapy is not scary — this is where a therapist's role comes in.

If you have seen the Bollywood movie 'Love You Zindagi', you would know that therapists can use humour as one of the many mechanisms to bring a moment of respite. Humour is a powerful tool.

This can help ease the therapy process and make the client feel comfortable. When used in proper context, it can help both the parties — therapist and the client — be more at ease. This leads to improved conversations, resulting in better revelations and solutions about life.

What does one exactly mean when they say "fun"? Let's find out. Fun does not mean cracking lame jokes or mocking others. It means involving humour or friendly banter to make the situation lighter. Therapists are trained to be empathetic, non-judgmental, and have a sense of unconditional positive regard for the client, come what may. Therapy is a serious business, but the conversations between the client and the therapist are not always serious. A therapist must create a relaxed environment for the client as it helps them be more outspoken and brings clarity to their thoughts.

Let us understand the case for fun in therapy:

Joy enables the clients to act freely. It does not have any bounds, nor should therapy. It helps clients face tedious situations, making them feel safer in the setup. It is crucial for the therapists to take clients seriously and understand their issues, but also ensure that the client feels you are easy to talk to. The client should not feel like going for therapy and discussing life is effortful. The human factor in the process comes with being at ease and humour.

Fun can be therapeutic for healing purposes. Speaking from my own experience as a therapist, I have observed that when I practice worksheets or techniques with my clients and make it more enjoyable and relatable as per their age, preferences, and likes, learning becomes less challenging. The effectiveness of working together also gets enhanced with the leisure element in the sessions.

Moreover, amusement as a tool is necessary to create a better, holistic bond

with the client. The connection between a therapist and a client is a very sacred one. It is the most vital aspect of therapy. There are many ways in which a therapist and a client can connect, leisure activites becomes one of the crucial ones. As highlighted earlier, it is of utmost importance that the client feels comfortable with their therapist. They need to feel that they can be their natural self, that there is no judgment involved and that this is a safe haven for them.

Research and my own experience have taught me that when therapists have a deep connection with clients, things fall into place, the client opens up quickly, and therapists can delve deeper into the issues at hand. However, humour can also be misconstrued as making fun of the client's problems. Here, one is not advocating to laugh at their issues or make a mockery out of their emotions. There is a distinctive difference between laughing at somebody versus laughing with somebody.

When it comes to humour and amusement in therapy, it can be an accessory for truth-telling. Truthful humour provides relief and a new perspective. Sometimes, when we take things too seriously, we can not find answers to the questions. However, sometimes, when we try to take things lightly, we see a different perspective.

Humour can help break down walls. It fosters a healthier experience and a better therapeutic relationship. Research shows how laughter, smiling, and making merry are proven to lower your blood pressure, give you a sense of high, increase your energy levels, elevate your overall mood, and boost bonding experiences.

For all the fellow therapists and potential clients out there, here are some techniques to make therapy more enjoyable:

Active listener:

Active listening in a therapeutic relationship

Therapy is a serious business, but the conversations between the client and the therapist are not always serious. A therapist must create a relaxed environment for the client as it helps them be more outspoken and brings clarity to their thoughts

is vital. Initially, the client can feel hesitant to open up and talk about the vulnerable subjects. That is why being lively as a therapist is necessary. They must engage with the client in a way where they can comprehend and understand therapy as a process and respond positively.

More welcoming:

A therapist's personality can add a lot of warmth and comfort to a degree where the client starts to feel familiar and relate to them. In my experience as a therapist and client, I realise that if a client does not match in terms of personality with the therapist, having a fruitful working relationship is difficult.

Open-ended questions:

As a therapist, asking open-ended questions always helps in making the session more interactive and less serious. Instead of asking questions that lead to a simple yes or no, it is important to ask more vast-scope questions.

Building a strong relationship:

Research has shown that the most important thing in therapy is forming a powerful relationship. There needs to be agreement between the therapist and the client, especially with the goal-setting at the beginning. There needs to be a sense of emotional bonding between the two parties. This can be brought in with humour and by being more open and supportive throughout the process.

All in all, having the right attitude as a therapist and a client could be the real game changer. Believe in yourself before anyone else that there is a connection between you and your client and vice-versa. Only when there is a distinct connection, the client returns for more sessions.

If there comes a time when you feel dejected and distressed, remind yourself that therapy is a helpful tool that can help you navigate life with proper guidance and understanding. And, if you happen to stumble upon a therapist that you don't connect with and are rather intimidated by, you don't have to give up on therapy. You just need to find a new, 'cool' therapist.

REEL LIFE Representing the humankind in

Movies have a way of impacting our lives in unique ways. However, it is often a character that leaves a lasting impression. Let's explore some characters that stole the show and left us in awe of their personalities and quirks

Gauri D.

The soul of a movie or a series resides in its well-written, well-executed characters. They truly go beyond medium, language, and even the base story at times.

While we can not have enough of some characters, others steal the show in just one scene. These characters, with their unique and hearty personalities and quirks, have an impact so deep that the audience remembers them for aeons.

There have been cases where the character was so legendary, that writers created spin-off shows specially designed for these characters. Young Sheldon is one such example in current times.

Groot sacrificing himself for the people he loves or Teen Groot extending the branches to fuse Stormbreaker needed no words. Across many years of cinematic and television history, there are many such

examples. Each of them have been written, directed, and executed to perfection by the actors. They truly deserve our love and respect. As a tribute to those artists, let's visit some of them in this article.

HANS LANDA

Hans Landa was immortalised by Austrian-German actor Christoph Waltz in the movie 'Inglorious Basterds'. He is a quirky sociopath who is hilarious and haunting. The character is as complex as

it is smooth. The inherent charm with inevitable villainy and high intellect is evident in the portrayal of a Nazi officer. The movie, despite its admirable story, begins and ends with Hans Landa's brilliant character.

ACE VENTURA

If you have not watched 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective', you have missed some great fun! Canadian-American actor Jim Carrey and his billion-dollar expressions steal

the show. Comedy created and executed for the sake of comedy is rare these days. Ace Ventura's physical comedy with slo-mo and rewind gestures cannot be topped.

AMY DUNNE

'Gone Girl' became iconic the moment the book hit the shelves. But English actor Rosamund Pike gave a face to the madness that was Amy Dunne. Her psychopathic intentions and a glimpse into her mind are all we need to live the story through this one character.

PATRICK BATEMAN

'American Psycho' is a classic movie that addresses many issues through a single character. Patrick's emotionless face to inner turmoil about the crimes he never committed is a journey you will not forget anytime soon. English actor Christian Bale played the character to perfection. The character represents the misguided aspects of society in great style.

LOKI

Loki of the 'Marvel Cinematic Universe' is a true example of how a good character changes the equation of any movie. Despite being the villainous character, it was appreciated and applauded by many fans. Cunning, charisma, charm, and comedy, Loki has it all thanks to British actor Tom Hiddleston.

MIRANDA PRIESTLY

American actor Meryl Streep's Miranda in 'Devil Wears Prada' is a character you want to be and are afraid of. It packs power and delivers it to the audience with a whispered punch, much like her dialogues in the movie. It is a character that resonates with every woman on some scale and is yet out of reach for the most.

AMELIE POULAIN

All of us need an escape from reality every once in a while. All of us need to believe on most days after watching the news that there is still some good left in this world. Amelie's character, portrayed by French actor Audrey Tautou, does that effortlessly. She lives in a whimsical world

that makes sense to her. It is a priceless vibe, some of which we can all use in our day-to-day lives. All that needs to be done is to channel our inner Amelie. The character is so iconic that it stays with you like a memory of a sunny afternoon on a gloomy day.

JOJO BETZLER

'Jojo Rabbit' was a one-of-a-kind satire movie of current times. Beyond its iconic storytelling, the little boy Jojo represented us all in some way or form. This powerful character presents our blindness towards the issues around us and our belief in this misinformed society. British actor Roman Griffin Davis' innocence showcases the human capability to change the narrative. It is a small character that packs a punch.

JOHN WICK

We often dismiss the power one person holds over all the others. Canadian actor Keanu Reeves' character in the 'John Wick' series is a representation of us all fighting for the things we love the most. For John Wick, his dog represented everything he desired and loved, and he fought for it. It is a simple motivation that leads the character on an incredible, albeit violent journey, that we can't stop watching.

JORDAN BELFORT

When American actor Leonardo DiCaprio said, "sell me this pencil", he sold us his character with so much charm and grace. He sold the American Dream to the entire world, and we lived it with him. He lived the dream for us because we could not, and it was a fun trip while it lasted. On a side note, this character in 'The Wolf of Wall Street' is based on a real person, and it was not a very happy ending. So, do not go on being inspired by Jordan Belfort.

FURIOSA

'Mad Max: Fury Road' was an iconic movie set in an apocalyptic world. Furiosa's character represents the inherent goodness of humanity in the face of adversity. With actions speaking louder than words, this character represents the fate of humanity. It is a character that

carries the weight of the entire human species and emerges as a winner.

HARLEY QUINN

Australian actor Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn from 'Suicide Squad' is a redeeming factor for the otherwise average movie. It is executed to a whimsically lunatic level of perfection and loved by the audience just as much as the original comic books. It uplifted a movie which would have otherwise sat in the depths of many other not-so-great works of the cinematic universe.

SEAMUS FINNIGAN

Of all the characters from 'Harry Potter', why this? Well, you will find them all in some other list of awesome characters and amazing movies. But the movie franchise redeemed its comic value with Seamus' dialogues and character portrayal that they lost by not portraying Peeves in the movies. Irish actor Devon Murray sits on the sidelines and quietly makes us laugh at the serious moments with quirk and his "particular proclivity for pyrotechnics".

ELLE WOODS

'Legally Blonde' is a chick flick, a comfort watch, and a feel-good movie. American actor Reese Witherspoon's character represents innocence and the power it wields in this world. In the age of technology, loss of innocence is inevitable. Elle Wood's character shows how that very quality can take you places. Much like how Peggy (portrayed by British-American actor Elisabeth Moss) from 'Mad Men', Elle is innocent enough to believe she deserves something and is tenacious enough to go after it.

SHURI

Black Panther might have stolen the title, but Shuri stole the show. Shuri is the kind of character that deserves her spin-off. There is depth and many hidden capabilities in this character that demand attention in an otherwise heavily dominated movie.

Didn't these characters transcend you to their iconic works? Such is the power of a good script and meticulous execution!

THE ART OF SPIRITUALITY

Exploring the concept of spirituality through the medium of the Internet can get daunting, but when someone with years of practice shines light on it, the meaning stands crystal clear

Spirituality is a widely discussed yet frequently misconstrued concept. It's commonly confused with religion, leading to the imposition of preconceived notions and biases in discussions about spirituality. But then, what is spirituality if not an extension of religion? While the knowledge sources are flooded with extensive and some misleading information about

Aashna Rohira

spirituality, here's an attempt to introduce you to spirituality through my lens. Let me take you through this beautiful journey and the things I have learned in the past five years of my practice.

The distinction lies in the personal journey, transcending pre-defined ideologies. In simple terms, spirituality acts as a road map to connect with your true self and find your true purpose through a lot of inner work, learning, and unlearning. Spirituality often involves a journey of self-discovery and self-awareness, prompting individuals to explore their deepest desires, fears, and beliefs. Through introspection and reflection, people strive to align their actions and intentions with their innermost values and principles, leading to a greater sense of authenticity and fulfilment.

Central to spirituality is transcendence — going beyond the material world and tapping into the realm of the sacred or divine. It brings awareness about a supreme power that takes care of our journeys in the most beautiful way. This may involve belief in God, a higher power, the universe, or simply a sense of interconnectedness with all living beings. Individuals often seek spiritual fulfilment through prayer, meditation, mindfulness, and reflection.

As you go deeper into the concept of spirituality, you will find that the practice is synonymous with being mindful, compassionate, grounded, and being full of love. It also involves an intensive process of identifying your belief system by learning and unlearning a lot of deep-rooted traditions and thought processes that you might have adopted based on your life experiences.

Spirituality encompasses a sense of morality and ethics, guiding individuals to lead virtuous lives and treat others with compassion, kindness, and empathy. It also involves an intensive process of healing your traumas, regulating your emotions, and detoxifying your body from substances, processed food, and junk thoughts. Spirituality helps develop better perspectives about life situations, which aids you in embracing the hardships of life with

greater ease and grace. It explores themes like love, kindness, humanity, gratitude, life after death, karma, etc. Don't worry, everything comes a step after another. As a beginner, you must go slow.

As we talk about spirituality, we often associate it with the concept of karma as well. As per my understanding, spirituality holds you accountable for your actions through the concept of karma. It is nothing but payback for your actions or deeds. Most of us are often scared of karma, I had the same notion until sometime back when I was having a casual conversation about it with one of my acquaintances.

She beautifully explained how one can view karma from a positive perspective. She explained it is nothing but a thought that we sow in our mind, which in turn becomes our action. Why do not we sow good, loving, and peaceful thoughts for the greater benefit of all humans and yourself, which will become a beautiful reality? I mean, karma also means putting the right thoughts in the universe by doing your bit to attract better things in life. This also means that our future life depends on the actions we take today. It also fulfils the purpose of doing your bit in the present.

As you go deeper into spiritual practice, with every level up, you experience many changes not only in the mind or soul but also in the physical body. Further, when you go deeper into the subject, you become extremely aware of your body's healing capabilities. You become aware of the fact that the body has its unique way of healing any ailment through various spiritual practices and training one's mind with the right intentions or affirmations.

Along with modern medicines, a lot of alternative healing therapies are advised for various life-threatening ailments as well. With spirituality, you also understand that every physical ailment has some connection to deep-rooted emotions, and traumas that get stored in different parts of the body and the same has been charted down in the book, "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise I Hay, which mentions a list of almost all ailments with its root causes and the affirmations that one can use to cure it.

Spirituality acts as a road map to connect with your true self and find your true purpose through a lot of inner work, learning, and unlearning. It often involves a journey of self-discovery and self-awareness

The right spiritual practices or energy healing also helps one to get away with addiction and reduces cravings.

If you are interested in starting your spiritual journey, you can start with a very simple practice. Start by giving up on ego and identities in your life and accepting that love is the purest form of energy that enlightens your soul. By operating from love, you activate your heart chakra and are less in control of your mind.

By operating from your heart chakra, you live in your true authentic element. Once you fill your space with love, lower emotions like anger, judgement, hatred, and jealousy don't hold any space, and you become a pure ball of light.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO START SOMEWHERE, START WITH THESE BASIC

PRACTICES:

l Be present, as it helps focus on the process rather than creating an expectation about the outcome, which in return, helps you perform your karma well.

l Be grateful for everything in life because that is the real magic. Practice gratitude journalling every day, especially on your rough days as this will help you realise that you have too many good things to be grateful for in life.

l Ground yourself and meditate as it helps you elevate your true potential by being aligned with divine energies. Meditation also helps you receive messages from the universe that are meant for you to help you soar higher.

l Mindful self-talk and affirmations to create a beautiful reality for yourself.

l Embrace Sun and Moon energies with the perspective that it's the driving force of life and help in balancing the masculine and feminine energy in your body.

l Be more content in life even in hardships because you grow to accept the perspective that everything that happens is a lesson to be learnt by the soul.

Hope you find some clarity on this concept. As you start your practice, I would only suggest you to go slow and be patient with yourself. Soak in the practices and allow yourself time to evolve. May your soul find everything that it seeks in this lifetime.

Entrepreneur's Journey with Maxx Aswani Unravelling an

If you believe in yourself and are willing to go the extra mile, success will follow suit. With this simple mantra, Aswani has gone on to become a pioneer in the global trade arena of electronics and gifting industry

City Scope

An entrepreneurial life can be a roller coaster ride, from launching a venture to seeing it touch great heights is an exhilarating journey. In an ocean of uncertainties and doubts, riding on the waves of confidence and self-belief is what leads to ultimate success. While it sounds like a tough road to take, many are making a mark in the world, bringing innovation, creativity, and impeccable decision-making to the fore.

Hong Kong, often revered as a financial hub that boasts vast opportunities and can fulfil dreams, holds one such entrepreneurial journey that's noteworthy. Let's introduce you to the visionary behind Maxam International Limited , Maxx Aswani. A beacon of novelty and resilience in the world of global trade, Aswani rose up from humble beginnings and has gone on to soar new heights.

As we navigate the era of start-ups that witnesses an ever-changing dynamic, let us draw inspiration from entrepreneurs like Aswani who redefine the meaning of success.

When did you come to Hong Kong and how were your early days in the city?

I arrived in Hong Kong in the year 2000. When I reached here, I was full of dreams and aspirations, and all I wanted to do was make a name for myself. With god's grace, the city welcomed me with open arms. However, my initial days in Hong Kong were rife with challenges. Adapting to a new city and an unfamiliar environment is never easy. Especially, when that is clubbed with an additional layer of understanding the nuances of business and finances in the city, it gets a little too much at once. It was only through constantly pushing my boundaries and an unsatiable thirst for knowledge that I could face every challenge head-on and convert it into an opportunity for growth.

Tell us something about your company Maxam International Limited.

Maxam International was established in 2005 in Hong Kong and since then, we have emerged as a beacon of excellence in the global trade arena of electronics and gifting industry. At present, we have a diverse clientele including industry giants such as Amazon, Starbucks, T-Mobile, and Legoland. Our presence spans across the USA, UK, Europe, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. At Maxam, we all work with unwavering commitment to deliver premium products and that vision has propelled our business multifold over the last few years.

What motivated you to start the venture and what were the initial challenges?

The inception of Maxam stemmed from a desire to channel my creative potential and leadership. Along with that, I really wanted to have a venture of my own that could help me cater to the needs of clients worldwide.

I worked with my brother's conglomerate for several years and it was a great learning curve for me. The knowledge I gained under my brother's firm laid down the foundation for me to start a business. It is through that experience that I understood the nitty-gritty related to finances, decision-making, connections, and so on.

Soon after, to unleash my creativity, I decided to move on and that is how, Maxam was born. It came to life with the single aim of serving a huge clientele across the globe. Again, no business starts

I worked with my brother's conglomerate for several years and it was a great learning curve. It is through that experience that I was able to succeed

and immediately takes off. It's a journey that comes to fruition with ample loads of learning and a never-say-no attitude.

As far as the challenges are concerned, there were plenty — from establishing a foothold in a competitive market like ours to overcoming logistical hurdles, finding the right people, and having ethical standards. All of it took time but what really helped me was a clear vision and a strong will.

I believe god has been kind to me throughout and has always paved the

way for me, whenever I faced a roadblock in my career.

How has your entrepreneurial journey been so far in Hong Kong?

My journey in Hong Kong has been nothing short of exciting. I have given it my all to soak in the local culture. For instance, I learned Cantonese and Mandarin by interacting with the locals of the city. It has not only made my life quite comfortable here but has also helped me a lot in business as knowing the culture and language has facilitated efficient communication with suppliers and stakeholders.

I was fortunate enough to have found great friends in the supply chain industry. It helped me build a robust network of supply chain partners. It also proved beneficial for the business as I could source the right

material at the right prices, eventually, producing top-quality products.

What are your future plans?

The future holds boundless possibilities for the company. We are currently venturing into brand creation, with our own label, 'JellieMons'. Our expansion plans include a global rollout, starting with key markets such as the USA, Saudi Arabia, and India. We are moving forward with an aim to redefine the landscape of electronic products and toys, setting new benchmarks of excellence.

As an entrepreneur, what are the key traits one must imbibe? Dedication, resilience, and creativity

are some of the must-have traits. Never surrender as you venture out to fulfil your dreams and always strive to deliver your best to the world. Remember that all challenges are opportunities for growth, and with undying passion in your heart, success will be yours.

Common mistakes young entrepreneurs must watch out for and avoid?

Mistakes are an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey. Instead of shying away from them, first, take responsibility for them. Secondly, accept each setback as

Mistakes are an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey. Instead of shying away, first, take responsibility for them. Next, learn from them and try to avoid the same mistakes again a valuable lesson. And, most essential is to learn from the past mistakes and to avoid repeating them in the future. Acceptance, adaptation, and continuous improvement are key.

What advice do you have for young and budding entrepreneurs?

To the aspiring entrepreneurs embarking on their journey, I offer this simple yet effective advice — don't stop exploring, innovating, and networking. As you step into entrepreneurship, remember that network is net worth. Other than that, always have the resilience to finish what you start and you will see all your dreams coming to fruition.

A message for the Hongkongers?

I extend my heartfelt wishes for a life filled with passion, purpose, and prosperity. I hope you all continue to accept each day with refreshed gusto and cultivate healthy habits. Let your spirits soar to new heights and make your parents proud.

the

Among plants LIVE WHERE YOU BELONG:

There is no better way to add a touch of tranquillity and peace to your house than to bring some stunning indoor plants. Read along to learn about the myriad options

THE WINTER QUEEN: CHRYSANTHEMUM

Chrysanthemums may flower annually during the winter season but their benefits are forever. Chrysanthemums, that most people simply forget after the flowering season, are capable of clearing traces of chemicals from your home. They have a great ability to absorb volatile organic compounds including formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, and trichloroethylene. These chemicals are often found in many household products and have harmful effects on our bodies.

Gauri D.

How often have we heard these phrases from friends and family? "I enjoy being one with nature", "Nature heals me", "I try to be among nature as often as I can".

The truth is that we are nature. One of mankind's biggest mistakes has been excluding the self from natural forces. We might look and think differently, but we are so much a part of nature. And, it has a great power: it heals our souls and provides for our existence.

Just like a pet improves the mood after a long work day, house plants play a huge role by being the mood and energy enhancers around us. These ever-beautiful green friends have a healing effect on the human mind like none other. All of us need this silent healing in today's highly challenging and competitive world. Here are some plants that you can have in your compact space to be your silent-support buddies.

THE BEDROOM PLANT: ZZ

The trusty, hardy ZZ is every plant owner's dream come true. It thrives on neglect. Just place it on the bedside table and forget about it, except watering it once in a while. ZZ is not just drought resistant but also air

purifying. It provides abundant oxygen and is, therefore, the best choice for a bedroom plant. The luscious dark green leaves will also add a zing to the decor of your house.

MOOD UPLIFTER: LEMON

Lemon may seem like a dud in this list but do not underestimate its power. Ohio researchers believe that the fragrance of lemon is a better mood supporter than even lavender. Its lemony scent keeps the interiors fresh and mood uplifted at all times. It bears tiny, pretty white flowers and delicious fruits that you can use to flavour your food and beverages.

GARDENIA

Gardenia is a gorgeous flowering plant that produces white fragrant flowers. It fills the home with a sweet scent and aids sound sleep. It has positive effects on the insomnia-affected population. German researchers have discovered that the compound in gardenia fragrance has the same effect as the prescription strength drugs on insomnia, without the side effects!

AROMATHERAPY QUEEN: LAVENDER

AIR PURIFIER: SPIDER PLANT

Spider plant is one of the safest and most beneficial plants to grow at home. It is non-toxic to pets and humans alike. It is air purifying

THE BEST ENERGISER: MINT

Mint is one of the easiest plants to grow. You can grow it in a pot or even propagate it in water, either way, it blooms very well. The minty scent of the plant is a great energy booster. It boosts mood as well as memory and has the double benefit of adding great flavour to food and drinks. There are over 600 varieties of mint in the world and every one of them offers the same benefit, if not more.

Everyone loves the beautiful and fragrant lavender. The tall plant with purple flowers is not just soothing to look at but has calming effects as it helps soothe nerves. It is also beneficial to those suffering from depression, insomnia, and anxiety. The Miami Miller School of Medicine study showed that the scent of lavender soothed babies and transcended them into deep sleep.

CHEMICAL PURIFIER: POTHOS

MOSQUITO PROTECTOR: GERANIUM

Scented geraniums have a varied fragrance range and very attractive foliage. With flowers growing in a bunch, these make perfect plants to hang in baskets or place in garden beds. The flowers

Pothos is one of the most famous houseplants. Besides looking appealing with its heart-shaped leaves, pothos can detoxify the garage and other low-light rooms. It thrives in a low-light environment and scrubs the air of pollutants. It is especially beneficial if your home is exposed to car exhaust, paint fumes, cleaning agents, and other chemicals.

NATURAL DECOR: PEACE LILY

Peace lily is a perennial flowering plant that produces white blooms with yellow accents. The deep green foliage and contrasting white flowers make it a great choice for indoor plants. Its long green leaves and bulb-shaped white flowers will instantly add to the magnificence of your house. It also emanates a faint scent that induces a calming feeling.

POP OF COLOUR: MONSTERA

Monstera are some of the most preferred household plants. Their beautiful foliage is the main attraction. The huge dark green leaves with the most distinct cut-outs add an unmatched vibrancy to the home while also offering benefits such as purifying the air of toxins such as formaldehyde. From indoor spaces to wide-open spaces, monsteras have something for all homes.

NATURAL COSMETIC: ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is a wonderful succulent that has a long list of health benefits. Aloe gel has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It shortens the wound healing time, soothes burns, and moisturises the skin. It is one of the main ingredients in many skin-soothing cosmetics. It is also known to be beneficial in treating diabetes. It looks pretty and makes you look pretty, too! Apart from all the benefits, it grows with minimal attention; basically it is a win-win in all aspects.

MOISTURE RESTORER: BOSTON FERN

Boston

Fern is a natural humidifier and air purifier. One of the easiest to maintain, it helps alleviate dry skin by just being around you. This is a great choice for all those who have air conditioning running 24x7.

times of the ancient Romans and Greeks for many reasons. English ivy offers many benefits, especially to people suffering from respiratory conditions. It helps breathing conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis as it naturally relaxes the airways and reduces the amount of coughing. It is also known to eliminate airborne mould particles and allergens. That makes it an excellent bedroom plant.

AIR QUALITY BOOSTER: SNAKE PLANT

The snake plant is also known as the mother-in-law's tongue. This plant has a unique ability to convert used-up carbon dioxide back to oxygen. It also removes harmful toxins like toluene, xylene, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. The snake plant is truly one of the best plants for air purification. It will help you breathe better without investing in expensive air purifiers.

MOONLIGHTING FOR FINANCIAL SUSTENANCE?

LET'S EXPLORE THE GOOD, BAD, AND THE UGLY!

The world is battling financial strain as inflation peaks and recession knocks on our doors. In such a situation, moonlighting seems like the only way forward for many. But, is it? Let's find out

Vidhi Arya

"W

hen patterns are broken, new worlds emerge," said American poet and author Tuli Kupferberg, and the last two to three years have proved the same. The professional world has been a crazy

place lately. We have all seen a whirlwind of new patterns, changing policies, and challenging environments, all with the same old dramas of a workplace.

While the job market has been tight, the financial market lately hasn't been of any help either. As the expenses continue to grow and wages remain unsatisfactory, employees have been resorting to this new

way of life called moonlighting. For the uninitiated, moonlighting is a process wherein an employee secretly carries out jobs or projects outside their primary, full-time job.

For this purpose, a person could be working a second full-time job or taking up a small, part-time side hustle. All so, either for extra income or to follow a

long-lost passion. Ever since this concept came to light, it has been raising eyebrows and sparking debates for many reasons, such as ethics, productivity, and even trust.

It was during COVID, when globally, everyone worked from home, and many facets joined in this conundrum, like pay cuts and free time due to initial slag in the workload. Owing to all these factors combined, employees resorted to finding side hustles to either make up for the financial loss or partake in something that connected them to their passion.

Not just the employees but even the employers realised that freelancers and pay-per-project are both beneficial models of companies. And, that is how moonlighting became a much-talked-about concept everywhere.

Recently, we have all heard how several companies fired their employees for taking up a second job. There also seem to be many companies who have specifically changed their employment contracts to bar moonlighting or have introduced fresh policies to tackle the situation at hand. While companies continue to maintain a negative attitude towards it, the employees seem to be in favour. Let us flip the coin to both sides and see what they reveal.

As we speak of employees, we see many people engaged in moonlighting primarily for extra money or for pursuing a hobby. As mentioned, the money market and job markets are both currently unfavourable for all. As inflation is at an all-time high, recession is hitting even the world's strongest economies, and expenses are off the roof, the present generation is having a tough time.

The Millennials and Gen Z are especially facing major money troubles. We are living in times where debts and credits are beyond comparison to what they were even a decade ago and asset building seems far-fetched. This shows that many will only benefit from an extra buck, and hence, moonlighting seems the only way to sustain them.

On top of it all, in a job market where layoffs can knock at the door any moment and new jobs are daunting to find, moonlighting acts as a ray of hope for many. It can help a person find steady connections that are likely to come in handy in case of job loss. These connections can also take a leap and hire these people for full-time roles

or even connect them to more employers. Either way, for someone insecure at their workplace, it is a silver lining.

Furthermore, those who moonlight for hobbies and skill development can also gather relevant experience through moonlighting and make a shift in their fields if need be. Ultimately, keeping people feeling secure and taken care of.

On the flip side, when we see why employers give moonlighting a stink eye, we can't entirely disagree with them either. One thing that employers seek from their employees is productivity and efficiency. Many managers globally believe multiple jobs lead to under-productive employees. That is a fair consideration because people who moonlight are most likely to put in extra hours, leading to exhaustion, burnout, and underwhelming results. The added workload can lead to a state of confusion from juggling several things.

The biggest concern employers have with people who take up side hustles is that of integrity and trust. Every company spends years developing their proprietary knowledge, product specifications, marketing plans, technologies, and so many other things that are practically trade secrets. Those who fail to keep their integrity intact and take facets of these invaluable secrets to a different place need to understand that the consequences of the same for the primary company will be far-reaching.

Tackling this landscape is a tricky journey that cannot be trodden upon by employees or employers alone. There needs to be a delicate balance. If we speak of employees, a major chunk of the onus lies on them to strike this balance. While moonlighting as a concept is not a menace, it does become one when loosely handled. As a full-time worker at a company, one swears in their truthfulness and integrity to the company.

There is nothing better and safer than non-conflicting moonlighting. It will always be beneficial if the employees are transparent about their side gigs. Meanwhile, companies can put an end to moonlighting by recognising the talents at hand and pay fair wages

It is only understood that each worker needs to prioritise their full-time work first — ensuring all tasks are diligently catered to and confidential information remains so.

It would be much more advisable for people to venture out into projects that are either linked to a hobby or will help them develop a new skill set. This ensures that the gig does not conflict with the work progress at the primary workplace.

There is nothing better and safer than non-conflicting moonlighting. It brings a fresh perspective and a new-found positivity. All of this is because of churning the creative and learning juices in our brains leads to rewarding happiness. Lastly, it will always be appreciable if employees discuss the intricacies of their side gigs with their employers and remain transparent about the need to undertake them. You never know if your employer will give you a raise or a position change to help you find the financial support you need.

As for the companies that still stand against moonlighting and aim to deter the workers from engaging in side jobs, the most suitable options remain to have relevant clauses in the employment contracts or have an entirely separate policy. While companies always have the option to ban moonlighting, it's essential to recognise the talents at hand and pay fair remunerations. Gone are the days when people will get exploited at under-paid jobs. The new generation knows their worth, and companies need to step up.

Allowing anti-conflicting moonlighting can get beneficial for companies as it permits employees to undertake their aspirations and remain thoroughly motivated and even grateful. It also improves employee performance as they can acquire new skills, knowledge, and diverse perspectives. At the end, bringing in a culture centred on trust, autonomy, and flexibility.

While many will continue to believe that moonlighting is unethical, many don't have another option, especially in the midst of the financially strained environment. Personally, I believe that it is high time we adapt to the change, find a mid-path, and slowly but surely work peacefully. Let's make English author-physicist Stephen Hawking's quote, "Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change," our mantra.

HOW TO TAKE A QUANTUM LEAP AND

your

achieve dreams?

Beyond the world we live in, lies a giant pool of possibilities. Read along to decipher these simple life hacks that will help you take a giant leap of faith into this quantum field and make your dreams come true

Diksha Dogra

Has the title given you chills and sent you back to the physics class you dreaded? If yes, please breathe and relax! You are safe. But then, what is a quantum leap? To understand a quantum leap, you will have to start by first understanding what manifestation is.

This word has been hyped up a lot over the last few years on social media, and many people are confused about what it is exactly. Manifestation is not any juju, it is a simple process of getting in harmony with what you want in life and achieving it by believing in the power of the universe and taking inspired actions. It is rightly said that "manifesting is the art of co-creating with the universe."

For those new to the world of manifestation, a quantum field is a field full of possibilities. It has every possibility of fulfilling your dreams. How you harness the power of this field depends entirely on you, on what you want to pick and manifest. When you want to acquire something, you first strongly think about your desire. By doing so, you send some energy into

the quantum field. After that, as you focus on your doubts, limiting beliefs, and experiences, you unknowingly start manifesting them instead of your dreams.

Franklin Roosevelt, former USA President said, "The only limit to our realisation of tomorrow will be our doubts of today". When you put your focus on either your dream or your doubt, you pick up some relevant possibility from the quantum field that has vibrations attached to it.

Let me explain with an example. Suppose you are manifesting a partner in your life. However, you have had some ugly experiences from a toxic relationship in your past. As a result, you keep focusing on that experience by saying I do not want that type of person or relationship in my life again. Energy grows where focus goes. If you focus on something you do not want, you will be manifesting the same thing.

The universe does not understand words like no, don't, etc. You will keep on coming across the same type of relations or people and

end up saying — that manifestation does not work. The truth is that you are playing a game without knowing its rules and like that, the moment you enter the game, you will be dead. You will only attract what you do not want if you continue to focus on your apprehensions. That is why you must understand the basics.

In the beginning, I mentioned that you manifest what you are in alignment with. While manifesting a partner, if you drag your past into your thoughts, you will get more of it. To attract a partner, you need to align all your thoughts and energies with only what you want, not what you want to avoid. You need to become one with the positive vibrations and attract them. You have to become a conscious manifestor to make your dreams come true and that is the ultimate law — the Law of Attraction. Remember, you attract what you are.

With the basics in place, let me elaborate on what quantum leap means. It means you must release your limiting beliefs and adopt new, empowered ones to manifest your dreams. As you stop resisting, you will jump and attract what you want as you will be in harmony with it. You see, everything starts and ends with the Law of Attraction — the ultimate law of the universe.

FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND DURING THE PROCESS:

Avoid blending intentions

I have seen people starting their journey with one desire and during the process, they confuse themselves with several other desires. As a result, they end up manifesting something completely out of the picture. You need to be crystal-clear on what you want, which can take time, but you need to believe that it is a necessity. I started

my business with image consulting and ended up becoming a manifestation coach. My journey gave me more clarity and a bigger vision, but instead of getting confused and burning my head, I listened to my inner self. It can happen to you, too, so avoid being confused and mixing intentions. Have faith and listen to your inner self and it will guide you to the path that will make you happy.

Looking back

Another thing which keeps people stuck is when they take one step ahead towards their manifestation and look back, they move two steps backwards. In the earlier example, I explained how someone who wants a good partner moves forward with the same intention but then drags themselves back by thinking about the previous relationships. This forward and backward movement will keep you trapped and never let you move closer to your dream. You need to move ahead by strongly holding the intention in your mind. You can look back but to inspire yourself how far you have come, not to pick up your baggage and keep dragging it along.

Awareness

Your intention has to be pure. This means it must be accompanied by positive emotion. Any negative emotion in your mind can create disharmony with what you want. I am not saying to be positive forcefully but to be aware of your negative feelings during the day and change it as soon as possible with a positive one by being grateful.

The feeling is the key

During personal sessions, many people say, "I have been doing this for years but have not been able to manifest anything". Honestly, they have been doing great by following certain techniques of the Law of Attraction, but they are just doing the

techniques. They are not developing any feelings in their body and heart, and ultimately, feelings are the key to manifestation. Without feelings, there is no alignment. You must feel the joy and happiness of living the dreams in your mind first, then actually manifest it in the real world. Also, you need to maintain the same feelings during the day, it should not be limited to the time of meditation, visualisation, or scripting. You need to hold the feelings during the whole day in your body and think of the desire in your mind to be in alignment with the universe. When you are in alignment, a quantum leap happens. Anytime you feel negative, read step three, be aware, and take action to bring yourself back to the required state.

Take inspired actions

While manifesting, do not be desperate and do not take actions that will cause regret and guilt later. Trust yourself and continue following the above mentioned steps. You will automatically be redirected towards the inspired actions that will keep you in alignment for the quantum leap.

Focus on the outcome

While you are enjoying the journey, don't forget what your target is. Stay focused on the outcome while taking inspired actions. Affirmations are a great tool to use for this. Keep a wallpaper on your gadgets or a goal card.

The world of manifestation is a vast one with many techniques and methodologies. Quantum leap is just one of the many fascinating ones. I hope you find this article useful and start applying everything mentioned. It is only the implementation of the things that can bring transformation in life. Learn and implement these as your envisioned life is waiting around the corner for you. "Stop waiting for somebody to elevate your game. You are already equipped with everything you need to manifest your own greatness." Let these words by American broadcaster and journalist Germany Kent be your mantra.

The rise of in the KillZen electronic scene

As new genres rapidly emerge in the dynamic music space, one that is really intriguing is electronic music. Let's delve into how KillZen, a duo from India, is carving a niche for themselves in the industry

Vidhi Arya

The exhilarating world of music changes its melodies in a heartbeat, however, what is fascinating is that the rhythm is always in sync. It is a place where boundaries continually expand and modern genres rapidly emerge, giving enthusiasts something fresh to experience every now and then.

In this very dynamic and highly mesmerising world, electronic genre rises as a vibrant force reshaping the musical trends, especially during the current period of time. Electronic music is a genre of music that employs electronic musical instruments, digital instruments, workstation software or circuitry-based music technology.

As the digital age provides for an unprecedented accessibility to music creation tools and platforms, current wave of artists are harnessing technology to redefine the art of music production. Among these trailblazers are Anannya Gupta and Abhishek Chaturvedi, the dynamic duo behind the Indian group KillZen Let's decipher more about these youngsters who bring to the fore a spirit of innovation and authenticity and a whole new zeal to the electronic music scene. Anannya Gupta, hailing from Delhi, started training with drums at the young age of 14. He took forward his passion towards music with a bachelor's degree in music production from Point Blank School of Music in England.

Abhishek Chaturvedi, who is a keyboard player, hails from Kolkata, West Bengal, and has had a vast exposure to a plethora of music genres since right after school. The two met at Point Blank School and there began the journey of KillZen.

Gear up to dive deeper into their story, explore their creative process, and find out how the duo aims to bring forward the transformative power of electronic music where creativity knows no bounds and expression knows no limits.

What led to the inception of KillZen and how did you guys come together?

The story behind the genesis of KillZen is rather funny and coincidental and dates back to 2016. Apart from music, both of us share a fond love for football. This one time, we both decided to catch up at home over dinner and drinks for a football match screening. After the game was over, we both went back to our mats and music.

In the process, just out of the blues, we decided to combine our ideas. Despite not discussing any tempo, musical scale, or time signature — all of which are highly crucial for creating music, when we combined our work, we were in awe of how well it sat. That's how we decided to collaborate and take it forward. We both shared a vision to create unique musical experiences rooted in originality. We make music which is emotional, retrospective, entrancing, and in a world of its own. It is music that tries to capture the nuances of the human spectrum of emotion, soundtracking moments and emotions that words fail to express. From the charged and aggressive rhythms that move bodies in dark rooms, to deep pensive melodies for those lost in thought, we have something for everyone.

What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your music?

We're both really emotional human beings and inevitably, emotion lies at the heart of our music. For us, music is an expressive outlet where even without any spoken words, melodies speak volumes. We generally sit down with a blank canvas whenever we are writing or composing music. However, it is our endeavour that our music conveys every emotion — from the simplest to the most complex ones — especially when words can't render justice to expression.

How do you approach collaboration and creative decision-making?

Over the past seven years that we have been collaborating, creative accord has been the foundation. Fortunately, so far, we have had no creative disagreements. The idea

is to ensure that each track reflects our collective vision. Through open dialogue and mutual respect, we easily navigate creative decisions. Our process involves exchanging versions, discussing changes, and occasionally granting each other a veto, all to ensure the project's greater good.

Can you share insights into your musical choices and how they influence the music?

Our listening palettes are quite diverse, spanning from orchestral, classical, to industrial genres, and from Frank Sinatra, Hans Zimmer, to Aphex Twin. This vast touch surely impacts and shapes our work. We believe that is how our music has a universal appeal, where we have something for every listener.

What sets your music apart?

At the core of KillZen's identity lies a commitment to performing only original music. Not just that, the fact that we play it live is also what sets us apart and offers an immersive experience to the audience. For the layman to understand better, we can say, we craft songs on stage rather than mixing existing tracks, which is something that DJs do.

How does electronic music differ from traditional genres in terms of composition and performance?

Unlike traditional music that's centred

around vocals, electronic music lays emphasis on instrumental melodies and innovative sounds. For us, composition begins with a melody: a melody we play, produce, resonate with, fall in love with, which if you ask us, already is worth as an experience and will stick with us for the rest of our lives. Apart from that, from a performance perspective, electronic music is generally mixed from one song to another or can be a free-flowing showcase of soundscapes, percussions, samples etc.

How do you envision the future of electronic music, and where do you see KillZen in it?

As electronic music continues to evolve, we anticipate a shift towards original live performances — a trend we are trying our best to trigger. With increased accessibility, we hope to inspire listeners to explore the different dimensions of electronic music with curiosity and zeal.

DJing skills are essential and we deeply respect every DJ. However, the validation that we get when the melody we wrote in our bedroom at 2:30am is being sung by a complete bunch of strangers in the nightclub, is beyond words for us. That feeling is truly priceless.

We hope to see more people trying to understand our art form and appreciate the work we do. Our five-year plan is to perform at the biggest stages in the world and the 10-year plan is to take our boutique record label 'Strangers Lost in Paradise' to every ear.

What advice would you offer to emerging electronic musicians seeking to make their mark in the industry?

Embrace certain fearlessness and uniqueness rather than following a set template manner with which electronic music is being approached. We urge you all to take risks; don't put yourself in a box and just create freely. Knowledge is power, the more you have, the less it feels. There's no alternative to hard work and experience in this field and your hard work will open doors to limitless possibilities that you can't see yet. So, keep giving your best every day.

Anannya Gupta (left) and Abhishek Chaturvedi from KillZen

RESET, RESTART, REFOCUS!

Sometimes, we get so caught up with work that all our energy and focus gets drained, leaving us feeling stressed and demotivated. Only if a button could help us regain control. Here are some lifestyle changes that can be of use

Sahiba Chadha Vaid

When your phone starts to hang, your computer gives errors beyond your comprehension, or your iPad stops working — what do you do? Do you not press the reset button? Imagine if we could do this with our lives. Elongated periods of stress, moments of grief, showers of uncertainties — what if we could tackle all this and get our lives back to normalcy by flicking a reset button? Wishful thinking or reality?

Each day brings myriad possibilities, including new possibilities of a better you — a focused, energised, and enthusiastic version of you is what every day deserves from you. To make the most of every possibility that comes your way, there are a few simple things that I have listed for you. All you have to do is hit the reset button. You can make it a lifestyle and follow it forever, and it is very doable.

But where is this button hiding?

Hitting the reset button is a technique which involves basic coping skills that you need to have in your toolbox for the inevitable things that happen every day that cause you stress. Cumulative stress is something you do not take into account ever, but it is a major cause of procrastination, inefficiency at work and home, laziness, anger, and even health ailments in some cases. To avoid all these, all you need is a new way of life or a few tiny changes that impact your life far more than you can imagine. These habits and coping skills will help you bring your life back on track on days when everything seems too overwhelming.

Starting with the most difficult task — getting off your phone. I know very well that your phone is almost like an extended body part for you, but believe me, it is a heavenly feeling to be without it for a few minutes every day, promise, just a few minutes only. In these few minutes, you can pick up the long-lost pen and start writing. Write about your feelings, how you want your day to go or how your day went, and jot down those thoughts to get some clarity in life — now this is something your phone can never help you with.

While we speak about clarity, are you also struggling with pointing out exactly

what you want? Clear goals also act as reinforcing reset buttons. When you have numerous things on your mind, going back to your goals gives you direction and makes you feel in control. To figure out your goals, start by writing three to five of the most important things you wish to achieve. In fact, you can write about 25 of the goals that you intend to achieve. Out of these 25 goals, mark the top five to make it easier for you. The remaining 20 goals are merely distractions (as per Warren Buffet), so avoid them. Your entire focus must be on the five goals that you mark for yourself.

Now, to achieve these five big goals, you will have to define daily activities or tasks or small daily to-dos that help you cumulatively over time. As outdated as it may sound, on a chaotic day, nothing is a better reset button than a well-defined to-do list. When your mind is cluttered with 50 things, a to-do list gives you clarity about what to prioritise.

For example, if you want to start reading more, set a goal of reading 10 pages daily. If you intend to become fitter, set a goal of working out or walking at least five days a week. That is an easy way of achieving bigger goals through small daily habits. When you convert tasks into your every day routine, you win for life.

To ensure you create these daily habits and include all small tasks to achieve your big goals, start planning your days. From the time you wake up to when you fall asleep, you need to have a well-chalked-out schedule. What would your routine look like if it was built to hit each one of your needle-moving habits? Jot it down and be as specific as possible. Go back to how we operated in school, where even prayer timings and lunch hours were defined.

Don't forget to keep a track of your daily accomplishments. Write down what your day looks like. Compare your actual day to your ideal day and find out what is working and what is not working. For example,

Clear goals act as reinforcing reset buttons. When you have numerous things on your mind, going back to your goals gives you direction and makes you in control. Figure out your goals by writing five things you really want

if you have written that you will wake up at 6am every day but you wake up at 8am, then you are losing two hours' worth of goals. You can track this and either change the tasks according to waking up at 8am, or you can wake up at the decided time. Create a daily habit tracker to make it easier. You may write about the reasons for missing out on certain tasks separately in your journal. A tracker is the only reality check you need, after all, you can not lie to yourself.

Another tool to reset your functioning is decluttering. A couple of weeks into practice, take time out to declutter. Declutter your schedule — avoid things and habits that aren't serving you right. Envision your goals — bring in more things which will help you and clean up your physical space as it helps create a positive environment and mental space.

Decluttering relieves you of stress and anxiety, it calms your mind and helps you sleep better. A better sleep means a more focused, energetic you the next morning.

We are all facing life and its intricacies on a daily basis and it's only natural to not be motivated every day. Just like small things accumulate over time to give us stress and anxiety, it is the accumulation of such small habits that makes us capable of remaining calm in constant chaos. By adopting simple, little habits that deal with planning, organisation, and reflecting, you can easily regain your focus, energy, and motivation and get back to achieving your goals.

Also, fortnightly or monthly, fix up a day to celebrate your small daily wins. Celebration is essential in life as it creates a joyous attitude which further pumps you. You'll be encouraged to do even better as nothing motivates humans more than rewards.

Habits are formed in 21 days, provided you are consistent. Once you get these daily habits into your routine, they'll slowly turn into a lifestyle. To sum it up, daily tasks become habits, habits become a lifestyle, and lifestyle change creates a new you. That is exactly what you need — a changed mindset, a fresh vision, a new you! After all, change is the only constant. And what better than an intentional change that brings out your best version?

HOW TO BEING A PEOPLE

PLEASER? STOP

What good can anyone's appreciation or approval do for us if, at the end of the day, we don't feel happy deep inside? If you have been prioritising others over yourself, here's why you should stop

Diksha Dogra

"I

f you live for people's acceptance, you will die from their rejection," shared American rapper-singer Lecrae. There is a life-altering lesson in these words. For 25 years, I have lived pleasing others — trying to do everything people perceived right, only to gain acceptance and appreciation. Now that I am an adult who has spent considerable time and energy

understanding my self-worth, I know how people-pleasing is futile and why it needs to stop immediately.

People-pleasing is a behaviour backed by an excessive desire to gain approval and acceptance from others. Individuals who engage in people-pleasing often prioritise others' needs and opinions over their own, fearing rejection or disapproval. This tendency can lead to a lack of assertiveness, boundary-setting difficulties, and a diminished sense of self-worth.

It is not easy to back out — it took every ounce of my energy to come out of that zone and understand my worth. However, that is where my transformation truly began. During my journey of being a manifestation coach, I realised it's not something that happened with just me; it is happening with most people. Many of us can not break the vicious cycle of people-pleasing. In this article, I will shed some light on some reasons, from my experience, as to why one chooses to please others and how one can stop doing so and still be nice.

Low self-esteem

People with low self-esteem seek validation from those around them. Their limiting beliefs don't let them trust themselves. For them, pleasing others becomes a way to gain approval and feel more valued.

Fear of conflict

Those who are afraid of conflicts and want to avoid them at all costs are often the ones who end up pleasing others. The need to have constant peace of mind pushes them to avoid disagreements. Hence, they keep their needs and opinions aside and agree with others, so that there is no confrontation.

Fear of rejection

Rejection is god's redirection towards something better, but people do not believe that. They believe in instant gratification, which leads to people taking steps that ensure they are always accepted and included, even if it includes putting on a facade or entirely disregarding their own needs and thoughts.

Need for positive reinforcement

Those who lack confidence and are insecure seek external validation. They may go to great lengths to please others in the hope of receiving positive feedback. The approval they receive can serve as a source of validation and reassurance.

FEW SIGNS OF BEING A PEOPLE PLEASER:

1. You always say 'yes' to others

2. You apologise a lot, even when you are not wrong

3. You always have someone to double-check your work

4. You are always concerned and overburdened with other's opinions

5. You agree even when you disagree

6. You often disregard your own needs and opinions

7. You take up extra work or overcommit to responsibilities or plans

IF YOU'RE A PEOPLE-PLEASER, YOU MIGHT FEEL:

1. A never-ending pressure to be friendly and nice

2. Anxiousness about having friction with anyone

3. Uneasy about standing up for yourself

4. Frustrated and stressed due to all the extra commitments and plans

5. Mentally drained because of putting on a facade

6. That people take advantage of you and that you don't matter

There are many other reasons and signs, but the aforementioned are common across most people-pleasers. Another thing that I have observed is the prevalence of denial.

People-pleasing is a behaviour backed by an excessive desire to gain approval and acceptance from others. Those who engage in peoplepleasing often priortise others' needs and opinions over their own

Very few people will accept that they live to please others. They will never agree that they are living to make others happy without paying any regard to their needs and happiness.

So, this is not about me, but about you. Be honest with yourself and do some introspection on your behaviour. If it turns out you are being a people pleaser, here are some simple steps to overcome that and still be respectable to others. Not being a people pleaser does not mean being rude to them. It simply means putting yourself and your values first while being cordial to others. Remember, people pleasing hides the real you.

Face your fears

The more you avoid your fears, like the fear of rejection, failure, and disapproval, the worse it will be for you. American author and coach, Tony Robbins shared, "Kill the Monster while it's little." These fears are monsters which kill our dreams or desires to be better. Face them while they are small and eliminate them.

Set healthy boundaries

Setting clear boundaries is crucial if you no longer want to be a chronic people pleaser. This is not easy, but being assertive when necessary lets others know that your needs matter and you value yourself. Healthy boundaries sets limits for what is acceptable and what is not. This helps to build respectful relationships and protects you from unhealthy ones.

Stop over-apologising

Being apologetic when you are genuinely at fault is good. However, saying sorry only to make others feel comfortable is a toxic habit, and you need to stop doing this. Over-apologising can undermine you and can lower your respect. Start taking a stand for things that matter to you and stop being apologetic for who you are.

Make better choices

Take your time to respond. Remember, you always have a choice. Learn to buy yourself time when someone makes

a request. Avoid saying 'yes' instantly. Give yourself time to give the request a proper thought. You can always say: "Let me think about it" or "I will reply later". Remember, you have a choice to say yes or no. You have to respect your time, mental space, and needs.

Develop self-love

Being kind and loving yourself is a powerful tool in boosting confidence and helps break the habit of people-pleasing. When you start loving and respecting yourself, you will always value your needs over those of others. It is essential to practice self-love and affirmations are a great tool for that.

You can't please everyone

You can be the sweetest peach in the world, and someone somewhere will still hate peaches. Accept that you will never be able to please everyone. Also, sit and ask yourself these questions: "Do you want to please everyone?" Why?

Some people are not worth your time. It is better to move on from toxic people rather than try to keep their anger at bay. If someone only likes you when you are doing something for them, they are not the people you want in your life. Not everyone will love you and it is absolutely fine.

Celebrate your wins

Celebrate moments when you successfully prioritise your needs. Your mind likes to win and it loves rewards too. When you start collecting evidence that shows you can put yourself first, you will move towards better and positive changes. By celebrating, I do not mean to say go party big. You can journal your wins, tell your close friends/ family you did something for yourself, or just get yourself a treat.

All these things will become automatic after some time, but you need to start doing them intentionally to reach the point where they become second nature. Do not immerse yourself in guilt or regret, as these are highly unsupported emotions for putting yourself first. Take charge of your life, live to the fullest, and do what makes you happy!

CRAFTING HAPPINESS THROUGH HOBBIES

We often get so caught up in the cacophony of life that listening to our heart's true needs can get a little tough. As we navigate our daily routines, here's how you can add happiness to your life

Hobbies? What hobbies? Who has the time to pursue them amid hectic work lives? Isn't it? Isn't this the most common reaction we see when speaking about recreation in a fast-paced world? We all are working day and night to meet deadlines, exhausting ourselves to fulfil demands, and giving our minds unwanted stress and anxiety. On top of it, adding another task, a hobby, seems like a debilitating idea, right?

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the hustle-bustle of modern-day life can be challenging. With time being a precious commodity these days, the idea of having a creative hobby seems frivolous. What purpose does it serve anyway, is what people often think. However, let me tell you, it is not how you comprehend it. The purpose of hobbies is much deeper than that. Let's understand better.

Hobbies are not merely pastimes, they have the power to transform your life and contribute to a holistic approach towards building a wholesome life. They are the key to unlocking creativity, promoting physical, mental, and emotional health, and discovering the unexplored territories of self-expression. As you delve into this realm, you unravel a world where passion meets leisure, providing relief from the atrocities of daily routines.

A hobby is nothing but an activity deliberately selected

to give joy and fulfilment, pursued for leisure rather than financial benefits. The extensive spectrum of recreational pursuits reflects a vast arena of human interests spanning from peaceful, serene choices to adrenaline-rushing activities, from intellectual pursuits to physical endeavours.

Whether a quiet escape of stroking your canvas with brushes or the exhilarating rush of extreme adventure sports, hobbies cater to building upon the diverse aspects of human personality. This article explores their significance and how they contribute to a richer, more meaningful life experience.

Personal growth

Out of many facets, one aspect where a hobby can transform you is your personal growth. As humans, we all blossom on new experiences. We tend to find newness in everything we do, and we improve our self-growth. Most of the hobbies require a learning curve, and we unlock a new achievement with everything new we learn. This rewarding experience helps in boosting confidence and self-esteem.

In some cases, a hobby can also result in a side hustle. If a person likes to paint on canvas and gets so proficient in that skill that it turns into a side-project, it can earn big bucks. Similarly, interests such as photography, baking, home improvement, etc., could also be monetised. In such cases, the feeling of accomplishment a person gets is priceless.

Dr. Manjula Vijh

Further, engaging in such activities that bring joy and accomplishment also proves to be beneficial in improving mental health as they stimulate the cognitive functioning of the mind, keeping it healthy and resilient.

Hobbies as a therapy

The things you do for passion and recreation have a therapeutic power. One of the most crucial benefits of having one such passion is alleviating stress in your daily life. There's so much happening around the world and in your personal and professional life, that sometimes it becomes overwhelming. In such an environment, having a cosy space for yourself at the end of the day becomes essential.

Whether it is playing a musical instrument, journaling, or doodling, activities like these give a healing outlet, allowing us to escape after an exhausting day. The main aim of such acts is to do something without pressure and in its natural flow. Scientifically, involving oneself in enjoyable activities also releases endorphins, natural stress-relieving chemicals. You can also reduce anxiety and foster a positive mindset by tapping into the creative and meditative aspects of hobbies.

Physical and emotional well-being

Many hobbies engage in physical activity, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Activities like cycling, hiking, dancing, etc., provide a gateway to regular exercise and contribute to overall fitness. Such activities help improve sleep patterns, energy levels, and physical resilience. On the emotional front, hobbies provide a platform for self-discovery and expression.

You can develop a deeper understanding of yourself by engaging in activities that resonate with your passions and interests. These also connect you with your emotions and help you find purpose and emotional satisfaction. The multifaceted benefits of physical, emotional, and mental well-being highlight the impact of hobbies on one's overall health.

Opens creative portals

All humans are creative in one sense or another and have a deep urge to live creatively. Everything

you do out of passion and love inculcates creativity and nurtures imagination. You need to keep your creative muscles in action and hobbies are a perfect way to do this.

Whether it is writing, crafting, or sketching, these activities encourage you to think beyond your imagination, explore new ideas, and uniquely pour your expression. These aspects foster innovation and help in problem-solving skills.

Furthermore, having a creative hobby also helps an individual to be present in the moment and improve focus. It takes one into a meditative state where you experience immense focus, bliss, and joy. When you immerse in a hobby, you are neither in the past nor future, but present.

Building social connections

Creative pursuits are a great way to socialise and make new friends. These days, there are many forums where like-minded people can meet and interact to grow their circle and connections. People with shared interests like dancing, engaging in team sports, etc., meet and cultivate their interests together.

This fosters social bonds that are not limited to age, background, or location. People with common interests make new connections through clubs, online forums, workshops, and other hobbyist communities.

Hobbies allow you to make networks and valuable bonds outside your work environment and relations and give a fulfilling experience. It makes your presence more interesting in gatherings. Meeting different people in communities enhances social and interpersonal skills and also contributes to a sense of collective achievement.

Having a hobby is not a waste of time. You must explore what you love, what gives you satisfaction, and adds value to your life. So, get out of your comfort zone and find time for your hobbies, just like you take out time for your work and other chores. Whether you are in your 20s or 50s, it's never too late to start doing what you love. Let out your inner child alive!

Lemon chicken in butter sauce

Ingredients:

l 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

l Salt and pepper as per taste

l 1 cup all-purpose flour

l 2 tablespoons olive oil

l 4 cloves garlic, minced

l 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about two lemons)

l 1 teaspoon lemon zest (grated lemon skin)

l 1 teaspoon dried oregano

l 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

l 1/2 cup unsalted butter

l 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Coat the chicken breasts in the flour and shake off any excess flour.

4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-

high heat. Cook the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Don't overcook the garlic and don’t let it turn brown as that'll add a burnt flavour.

6. Pour in the chicken broth, a spoonful of butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and thyme. Stir well.

7. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, reducing it slightly.

8. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, pour some of the sauce over them and cook for a minute or two.

9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked properly and no longer pink in the centre.

10. In the last few minutes of baking, add small pieces of unsalted butter to each chicken breast.

11. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh coriander for garnish. Serve the lemon chicken with the remaining sauce from the skillet.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

Ingredients:

l 1/4 cup unsalted butter

l 1 teaspoon oil, any

l 1 finely chopped onion

l 2 cloves garlic, minced

l Around 500 grams of mushrooms, sliced

l 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

l 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

l 1 cup heavy cream

l Salt and pepper as per taste

l 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

l 1 bay leaf

l Chopped fresh parsley or coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, add oil and butter and melt the butter over medium heat. Adding oil will prevent the butter from burning and turning brown.

As soon as the butter melts, add the chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.

2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Be cautious and prevent over-cooking and browning of mushrooms as that will change the colour and taste of the soup.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add the thyme and bay leaf to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavours enhance.

6. Reduce the heat to low, and add in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning as needed.

8. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency or you can leave it chunky if you like.

9. Serve the cream of mushroom soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or coriander.

Heema Arya

Heema Arya

THE EXTINCT OLD-SCHOOL LOVE

The echoes of yesterday

Vinni Gupta

How swiftly it changed, like a flip of the page, Just yesterday, we laughed, full of rage. With friends all around, in places we'd roam, Dancing and lunch rushes, our lively home.

Who knew sharing reels is how our connection would spin, Sending messages and fixing a time for video calls, these chances also became thin.

Real touch turned into a virtual thing, Missing times when connections had a real zing.

Meeting friends now needs some gossip talk, But earlier, you met every day and had a comforting walk.

It feels weird when texts sit unread, Growing up can be lonely, that's what's in my head.

Making friends now is a bit of a quest, Finding time to talk, not like the rest. For people of my age, it's a common deal, Friends are distanced and emotions we try to conceal.

But from this distance, one truth unfolds, In changing times, only memories hold.

It feels surreal to realise how far I've come, From the pure love that's now a distant hum. The one I longed for throughout my days, An era where love adorned in respectful ways.

I crave an era of genuine affection, Romance, small gestures with deep connection.

Where the love is uncompetitive,

And they are ‘the one’, your heart says in affirmative.

What made me believe in it were the movies of my childhood,

The songs filled with natural and flawless love keep me hooked. There were no swipes or likes, but it was just stolen glances,

Where the courageous hearts took classic chances.

How unbelievably the universe plots your way to that person, And, destiny begins weaving tales with them

for a reason.

The beauty lay in those shared eye contact, Holding hands gave butterflies inside, that's how it felt to be exact.

Handwritten letters, inked with devotion, A timeless love, a heartfelt emotion. No instant messages, no digital haste, Just the echo of footsteps in a quiet embrace.

Unspoken goodbyes healed by a back hug, Wind's shiver met with their jacket giving snug.

Grooving to the music while waiting for that person,

And just when you turn, you see them grooving with you in union.

Heart skips a beat in moments when you surprisingly see them,

The day feels incomplete without talking to them.

In this bygone era, love feels like an ancient art, Captured in verses, etched in the heart.

Vinni Gupta

THE MEAN THEORY:

HOW TO BE DIRECT WITHOUT BEING MEAN

We can't make everyone happy. While we prioritise our happiness and set boundaries, we need to be stern but that doesn't imply that we need to be rude, here's how it can all be done peacefully

Astha Anand

Our friends and families brighten up our days and make our world a better place, right? But don't they also really get on our nerves sometimes? Every individual comes with their unique patterns and characteristics. While we treasure some of these traits, we might hate others to the core.

That is exactly why sometimes, we get sick of our parents for doing certain things, sometimes get irritated with our partners for their behaviour, and even get fed up with our children over their tantrums. When we love someone with all our heart but cannot stand a particular thing about them, navigating the relationship can get slightly difficult.

Though navigating these differences is indeed a tedious process, it is tougher to carry out this process peacefully and kindly. We are all impatient beings who turn into ticking time bombs during conversations. In several conversations, we end up being extremely mean — using derogatory words, demeaning language, and rude gestures. All this while being oblivious of how it impacts our relationship in the long run.

It makes me reflect on the importance of being direct about our expectations and needs in a relationship without being mean. There is a thin line between being aggressive and being assertive, and it makes all the difference in a relationship. It can get challenging and tricky to differentiate between being aggressive and assertive, but there are ways to find resolutions and create healthy boundaries during

disagreements. Here are a few things you can analyse to establish if you are being assertive or aggressive:

Behaviour

When it comes to behaviour, you need to understand that actions speak louder than words. This includes your facial expressions, body language, how you look, your stare, and the gestures you make. These can determine quite a lot when it comes to being aggressive versus being assertive. The idea is to include calm and composure in your words and overall body language.

Tone

What kind of language are you communicating your feelings across with? Are you deliberately saying hurtful things or genuinely conveying your message?

Volume

With tone comes volume. When you express your feelings and emotions, they come

Resolving arguments in a relationship is a tedious process. It is tough to execute it smoothly. There is a thin line between being aggressive and assertive, and that makes all the difference

with a certain intensity. Are you yelling or raising your voice while doing it or are you being stern, holding your boundaries, and communicating your message politely yet directly?

Intentions

Now that we have spoken about volume, tone, and behaviour, it is crucial to understand the real intentions. The intention behind how you talk to someone — are you being genuine, or are you trying to intimidate the person? Are you purposely trying to violate

the boundary they have set with you? These questions are essential to answer to understand the true intention.

Profanity

At last, coming to profanity. Are you cursing or using ill words with the person you are talking to? What does this show, honestly?

I do not mean that you are not supposed to get aggressive or that it is deadly wrong. It is normal to be aggressive at some point in your life. After all, it's just human nature. You are supposed to and are bound to experience all types of emotions — even aggression. The main goal here is to notice when you are being mean or aggressive, try to correct yourself and apologise for your behaviour if it hurts the other person. It is also possible that sometimes you do not know how to communicate with the person without sounding or being mean. Let us understand how you can be direct without being rude:

Validation

I cannot emphasise enough that validation is extremely important. Validating the other person does not have to mean that you are

and understand their point but respectfully disagree. Validating someone can also help them come forward and understand your point in detail without getting defensive.

Feelings

It is essential to state your feelings, but doing that can also get tricky. It is helpful to start with 'I' instead of 'you'. Pointing fingers is usually always easy, but make sure that you state your point in a manner that does not make the other person feel bad or unheard.

Compromise

The best way to communicate is to reach a middle point. It is always better to meet in the middle instead of going separate ways. I have seen countless clients in therapy who tell me that just because of miscommunication or improper ways of communication, they have lost some of the most important relationships in their lives. Compromise can be hard but also brings comfort, familiarity, and a sense of togetherness despite the differences. If you and the other person can reach a compromise, it is less likely for both of you to have the same issue again.

Here are some tips that can help you communicate effortlessly and effectively without coming across as mean:

Think before you speak

Words are like arrows shot from a bow; they can't be taken back. Hence, always choose your words wisely. If you wish to be assertive with the other

Validating the other person does not mean that you are on the same page as them and agree with them. It simply means that you hear and understand their point but respectfully agree to disagree

person, think about the words you will use and how the other person will interpret them. Remain calm and do not get into conversations hastily. Writing down your thoughts and reading them back to yourself always helps. If that does not work for you, speak to someone close to you and check with them if what you want to say comes off as being impolite.

Be a good listener

Being a good listener is a good quality and helps us be more assertive and less defensive. Always remember that communication is a two-way street — speaking and listening. Listening and truly understanding what the other person is saying shows respect, even if you disagree with their thoughts. When you listen and cater to the other person, they also tend to value your opinion.

Don't take things personally

Sometimes a person can deliberately touch your sore spots or say something personal, as a result of which you can lose control. It is crucial to not let what the other person says affect you negatively. Learning to brush off the comments made by others who do not matter is another quality everyone needs to imbibe.

Being humble

This quality comes above everything else. It can help you stay calm in an intense situation. It can help you combat resistance to assertiveness. Being humble keeps you centred and focused in an adverse situation.

Confidence is key

If you understand the difference between being assertive and being aggressive and wish to take charge by being assertive — people will enjoy being led by you. Those who lack confidence can be considered timid, and people can sense this lack through their behaviour and gestures.

Ultimately, putting a point across, defining boundaries, and being heard are all that one needs for a peaceful, secure life. If you only learn the art of doing the same with a little more politeness and assertiveness, you will always be heard and respected. Just keep these little pointers in mind and go make your relationships work better.

Horoscope for May 2024

Aries

Get ready to embrace change as it is the perfect time. Do not be afraid to take risks in your career. Your energy will be high and with a positive mindset, you can overcome any challenges that come your way.

Taurus

It is all about balance. Focus on your personal and professional goals with a balanced approach. Both aspects of your life will demand attention and will flourish if you put in your best efforts.

Gemini

Express your thoughts and feelings truthfully to avoid misunderstandings. Interactions will be rewarding for career and networking is likely to open doors for new opportunities.

Cancer

Listen to your inner voice while making professional decisions. Personal growth is likely, so take thoughtful steps towards your goals. New relationships will come your way and flourish.

Leo

New opportunities are coming your way. Your charm and charisma will be at its peak, making it an ideal time for both personal and professional pursuits. Travel plans are on the cards for you and your family.

Virgo

Pay attention to your physical and mental health. Balancing work and relaxation is crucial. Focus on home and family and strengthen emotional bonds to create a harmonious living space at home.

Libra

Strengthen your connections. Collaborate with others to achieve common goals. Professional life will improve with strategic planning. Keep a check on leisure activities to maintain finances.

Scorpio

Let go of what no longer serves you and welcome positive change. Professional life will be fulfilling as you will find new opportunities. In relationships, be open and honest to maintain harmony.

Sagittarius

Seek new experiences and broaden your horizons as it is time for adventure and self-discovery. Opportunities may arise but carefully consider the long-term implications. Nurture relationships with friends.

Capricorn

Focus on your career and ambitions. Initiate long-pending projects and hard work will pay off. Don't neglect your well-being in the process. Financially, be cautious and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Aquarius

You must express your unique ideas. Connect with your inner self through meditation or creative pursuits. Your social circle will play a significant role in your growth, be grateful for them.

Pisces

Nurturing your well-being through healthy habits will lead to positive outcomes. Networking can lead to new opportunities. Be mindful of financial decisions and seek advice if needed before investing.