Karthik Unscripted: 20 Years of Thoughts and Insights: December 2024

Wednesday, December 04, 2024

The Art of Being Effective: Doing the Right Things in Life.(My Journey!)

#598

Introduction

Effectiveness is not a skill you’re born with—it’s a practice you cultivate through reflection, learning, and intentional action. For me, this journey began 40 years ago in December 1984, as I was completing my master’s degree. Until then, I hadn’t given much thought to academic excellence, life planning, or the disciplined execution of goals. I took life as it evolved,without much seriousness or actions that lead to great results. However, during that period, it dawned on me that to be effective, I needed to define clear actions for what I wanted to achieve and follow through with actionable steps.

While I may have arrived at this realisation five years later than I might have liked, I have no regrets. This moment of clarity became the turning point that made effectiveness a second nature for me, shaping every milestone in my personal and professional life. In this blog, I’ll share the key aspects of being effective, blending universal insights with personal experiences to inspire you on your own journey.

1. Vision: Knowing Your Destination

Effectiveness begins with a clear vision. Without it, even the best efforts lack focus. For me, the first step in this journey came as a teenager when I realised I didn’t feel comfortable with Tamil Nadu’s cultural setting. I yearned to explore a different way of life, and this vision of breaking out of my comfort zone laid the foundation for everything that followed.

Later, I chose Environmental Engineering—a sunrise field at the time. This unconventional decision aligned with my vision of doing something meaningful and different. It paid off handsomely, both professionally and personally.

Lesson: Define your vision early and revisit it regularly. A clear direction keeps you focused even when life presents challenges.

2. Values: Staying True to Your Core

Values are the compass that ensures your effectiveness remains meaningful. For me, values have always topped the list. Whether in personal decisions or professional commitments, I’ve consistently leaned on my core principles to guide me. I recently reflected on these in a blog post, here, underscoring how they’ve been my anchor through life’s uncertainties.

Lesson: Identify your values and let them guide every significant decision. When vision and values align, effectiveness becomes natural.

3 & 4. Goals, Targets, and Metrics: Turning Vision into Action

In 1989, inspired by Think and Grow Rich, I set life goals with clear metrics: marriage by 28, homeownership after 40, and independent work by 50. These weren’t just ambitions; they were actionable targets that I pursued with determination.

A key moment of course correction came in 1996 when I decided to move back to South India. Living in Gujarat, I realised the Medicare and education systems were not suitable for my children’s future. It was a bold decision, but it aligned with my goals, reinforcing that effectiveness sometimes requires difficult choices.

Lesson: Set clear, measurable goals and embrace course corrections when necessary.

5. Mentoring: The Power of Guidance

Mentorship has been one of the greatest gifts in my journey toward effectiveness. My managers not only honed my technical skills but also nurtured my personal growth. This influence shaped how I raised my children, encouraging their independence from a young age. By 1998, at just 4 and 6 years old, they had developed traits of self-reliance that served them well into adulthood.

Lesson: Seek mentors who believe in your potential. Their guidance can profoundly shape your journey.

6. Lifelong Learning: Staying Curious and Open

Learning is the cornerstone of effectiveness. Pursuing an MBA at 40 was a major milestone, but my journey didn’t stop there. Even today, I’m exploring new skills like Spanish and working toward my goal of reading 1,000 books (currently at 800).

Lesson: Commit to lifelong learning. It’s the only way to stay relevant and adaptable in an ever-changing world.

7. Feedback: A Mirror for Growth

Feedback has been pivotal in my growth. Lalitha’s direct and sometimes caustic observations have often served as wake-up calls, helping me refine habits like reducing cussing and managing my contempt for inefficiencies. While we still disagree wildly on certain issues, such as my critical view of Indian systems, her feedback has been invaluable.

Lesson: Embrace feedback, no matter how uncomfortable. It’s a tool for refining your effectiveness.

8. Resilience: Persevering Through Challenges

Resilience is essential for long-term effectiveness. As a High "D" personality, I’ve always leaned on optimism and intelligent risk-taking to navigate challenges. From career decisions to personal milestones, resilience has been my anchor.

Lesson: Develop resilience by focusing on the optimistic side of challenges. It helps you bounce back stronger.

9. Balance: Prioritising What Matters

For me, family has always been the top priority. Whether it was making career sacrifices for my children’s education or carving out time for Lalitha despite demanding professional commitments, I’ve always balanced life with clear priorities.

Lesson: Balance isn’t about equal distribution; it’s about prioritising what matters most.

10. Focus: The Power of Saying No

Effectiveness often means saying no to distractions or activities that don’t align with your vision. In today’s world of information overload, staying focused is a superpower.

Lesson: Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorise tasks into urgent vs. important and eliminate what doesn’t add value.

11. Emotional Intelligence: Building Effective Relationships

Effectiveness extends beyond personal goals to include meaningful relationships. Emotional intelligence helps you connect with others, manage conflicts, and influence outcomes positively.

Lesson: Practice self-awareness and empathy in all interactions to build trust and rapport.

Conclusion

Effectiveness is a journey, not a destination. It evolves through clarity of vision, alignment with values, and the discipline to execute actionable steps. Looking back on my journey, I see how that pivotal realisation in 1984 shaped my life. It’s never too late to start.

If you’re seeking to be more effective, begin by reflecting on your vision and values. Set clear goals, embrace feedback, and commit to lifelong learning. Remember, the journey to effectiveness begins with a single, intentional step.

Call to Action: Take a moment today to define what being effective means to you. Start small—whether it’s setting a new goal, seeking feedback, or learning something new. The rest will follow.

Let me know your thoughts?
Karthik

4th Dec 2024 930am.

Monday, December 02, 2024

Sitting is the New Smoking in 2024....

#597

Introduction: The Silent Epidemic of Sedentary Lifestyles

In the last decade, the idea that "sitting is the new smoking" has been making waves, and for good reason. Prolonged sitting, much like smoking, creeps into our daily routines and silently erodes our health. From the desk-bound professional to the screen-absorbed binge-watcher, the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle are becoming alarmingly clear.

Personally, I’ve been reflecting on this concept, especially as someone who’s recently recovered from surgery. The lessons I’ve learned, coupled with advancements like my Apple Watch, have profoundly changed the way I approach movement and health.

The Science: Why Sitting is Such a Big Deal

When experts compare sitting to smoking, it’s not just for dramatic effect. Studies have consistently shown that excessive sitting increases the risk of:

Cardiovascular diseases
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Musculoskeletal disorders
Even mental health issues, like depression and anxiety.

Recent findings, such as those shared in Good Energy by Casey Means, reinforce that our bodies are designed to move. Sitting for long hours disrupts our metabolism, affects circulation, and can lead to inflammation—all silent threats that manifest over time.

The Modern World: Designed for Sitting

The 2024 lifestyle is one of convenience, but at what cost? Technology, remote work, and digital entertainment have made sitting the default posture of the day. We sit to work, relax, socialise, and even exercise (think cycling machines). While we’ve seen efforts like ergonomic furniture and fitness trackers, the global culture of sitting still holds sway.

My Approach: Turning Awareness into Action

I’ve consciously adopted habits to counteract a sedentary lifestyle. For instance:

Standing Hours: My Apple Watch ensures I stand for at least 15-16 hours a day. If I remain seated for more than 45 minutes, I get an alert to stand up. (Not including the minimum threshold of 20,000 steps a day/rain or shine- I am lucky I have a long corridor to walk,as happened today due to rains here in Bangalore.)
Hydration Breaks: Drinking plenty of water keeps me hydrated and encourages me to get up for frequent washroom trips.
Movement for Connection: With Lalitha busy coaching or managing the kitchen, I make it a point to walk up to her for conversations instead of yelling across the house. It not only breaks the sitting spell but strengthens our bond.
99% of the time, I answer the doorbell, Intercom @ apartment, thus breaking the sitting mold.

These small but deliberate actions create a ripple effect for both physical and mental well-being.

Workplaces and the Society-Wide Impact

Many workplaces are now realising the cost of sedentary habits on employee productivity and morale. Innovations like standing desks, walking meetings, and active break schedules are gaining traction. However, behaviour change remains a challenge, as comfort often trumps awareness. I recollect, Shravan informing he has standing desk at work.

At a societal level, urban design and lifestyle shifts can help. Communities that prioritise walking paths, cycling lanes, and green spaces encourage movement over stagnation. It’s a cultural shift that’s overdue.

Critique of the Analogy: Is Sitting Truly the New Smoking?

While the analogy drives awareness, it’s not a perfect comparison. Smoking is inherently harmful, while sitting becomes harmful through excess. Movement, unlike abstinence from smoking, doesn’t require a complete overhaul—small, consistent changes are enough.

Practical Steps to Combat Sedentary Lifestyles

Set Alerts: Use fitness trackers to remind you to move regularly.
Incorporate Standing Time: Aim for standing at least once every 50 minutes.
Hydration Strategy: Drinking water not only benefits health but also encourages physical breaks.
Micro-Activities: Walk during calls, stretch while waiting, or adopt hobbies that involve movement.
Connect Through Movement: Use conversations or activities as opportunities to walk or stand.

Looking Ahead: A Movement Revolution

The road to countering sedentary habits lies in integrating movement into every aspect of life. From urban planning to workplace innovations, the future needs to align with human physiology.

As individuals, the journey begins with us. Whether it’s a nudge from a smartwatch or a mindful choice to get up and talk to someone, every step counts—literally.

Conclusion: Movement is Medicine

The saying “move it or lose it” has never been more apt. Sitting may not carry the instant harm of smoking, but its cumulative effects are equally debilitating. By embracing movement as a lifestyle, we not only improve our physical health but also unlock a path to greater energy, focus, and joy.

Let’s stand up—not just figuratively but literally—and take charge of our health, one step at a time.

Comments??
Karthik.

2/12/24

11am (A rainy Bangalore!!)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Annex:-

Here are some additional strategies to avoid prolonged sitting and integrate more movement into your daily routine:

At Home

Dynamic Household Chores:
Engage in activities like sweeping, mopping, gardening, or washing dishes. These not only break up sitting but also keep your body active.
Active TV Time:
Do light stretches, walk on the spot, or use a treadmill while watching television.
Furniture Adjustments:
Consider using a high counter or adjustable standing desk for activities like reading, writing, or using your laptop.
Interactive Games:
Incorporate movement-based games or virtual reality experiences that require physical activity.

At Work

Walking Meetings:
Replace traditional sit-down meetings with walking meetings, especially for one-on-one discussions.
Stand-and-Work Intervals:
If a standing desk isn’t feasible, use timers to alternate between sitting and standing every 30-45 minutes.
Frequent Micro-Breaks:
Use the Pomodoro technique—25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break to stand, stretch, or move.
Stretching Sessions:
Incorporate short stretching exercises into your workday. Apps like "Stretchly" can remind you to take these breaks.

In Transit

Active Commutes:
Walk or cycle short distances instead of driving. If commuting by public transport, stand instead of sitting when possible.
Take the Stairs:
Whenever possible, choose stairs over lifts or escalators.

Social Interactions

Walking Conversations:
Turn phone calls or casual chats into opportunities to walk.
Active Get-Togethers:
Organise social activities that require movement, such as group walks, hikes, or sports, instead of sitting at cafés.

Leisure Activities

Move During Hobbies:
Explore hobbies like dancing, gardening, or woodworking that keep you on your feet.
Post-Meal Walks:
Take a 10-15 minute walk after meals to aid digestion and reduce sitting time.

General Lifestyle Changes

Stretch Upon Waking:
Begin your day with a few minutes of light stretches or yoga to activate your body.
Adopt a Pet:
If feasible, having a dog will naturally increase your movement as you take it for walks.
Fitness Tracker Goals:
Set daily movement goals beyond steps, such as 'minutes of activity' or 'calories burned,' to maintain variety.

Mindful Practices

Set Activity Triggers:
Create habits linked to routine tasks, like doing 5 stretches every time you finish a glass of water.
Standing Conversations:
When receiving visitors or engaging in longer discussions, do so while standing.
Mindful Posture Changes:
Regularly adjust your posture even while sitting to prevent prolonged pressure on the same body parts.

By consciously embedding these habits into your routine, you’ll keep your body in motion and avoid the cumulative effects of sitting.

Sunday, December 01, 2024

Personal Values- The Compass of my life!!!

#596

Personal Update

Yesterday was a very quiet 61st birthday, coinciding with Ammavasya, a day devoted to rituals honouring our ancestors. The day was reflective and contemplative, unlike any other birthday in recent memory. As I shared with Lalitha and the children, this marks the third time in my life when a birthday has been dominated by deep reflections about the future.

The first was in 1984, when I stood at a crossroads in my college Hostel, contemplating the way forward for a positive& productive career (1985 onwards). The second was in 1989, when the focus shifted to questions about marriage (1991) and building a life together. Now, in 2024, the reflection is centred around the twilight years—what I call the “sunset phase” of life.

What sets this year apart from 1984 and 1989 is the context. Back then, I had a plethora of options, paths to explore, and a sense of control over my destiny. But 2024 feels different. The paths seem narrower, and the options fewer. This is a new kind of challenge, one where my judgement, subconscious mind, and inner resilience will have to step up to chart a fresh course.

As I ponder the way forward, the question isn’t just about finding a plan but about creating one that lets me soar again, even in the face of limited options. Let’s see where this journey leads!

My work desk wall (2000-2012)!!!
+++++++

A Personal Journey Through Adaptability, Honesty, Truth, Radical Candour, and Empathy.

At 3:30 a.m., my Apple Watch nudged me with yet another reflective prompt—this time steering me toward the values that truly define and guide my life. In those serene moments, five core principles stood out clearly: Adaptability, Honesty, Truth, Radical Candour, and Empathy. These are not abstract ideals for me; they are deeply ingrained in my actions, choices, and relationships. Here’s how these values have shaped my personal and professional journey, with specific anecdotes that illustrate their power.

1. Adaptability: Embracing Change and Making it Work

Life is unpredictable, and adaptability is the ability to turn its surprises into stepping stones. For me, this value came into sharp focus during my career and life transitions.

In 1985, I moved to North India for a job—a challenging shift for someone rooted in the South. Yet, I embraced the opportunity and thrived in the environment. By 1996, I returned to South India, vowing never to move back to Tamil Nadu. Instead, I settled in Bangalore, a city I’ve since made my home. This was a deliberate choice, despite receiving numerous job offers from other locations over the years.

My decision to stay in Bangalore wasn’t just about personal comfort but about creating a stable base for my family and allowing companies to adapt to retain my talent rather than me uprooting my life repeatedly. This mutual adaptability has fostered loyalty and balance.

2. Honesty: The Courage to Be Transparent

I’ve always believed in doing things the right way and communicating openly, however unpleasant the truth might be. Early in my career, I learned the importance of first-reporter advantage—bringing issues to the table before they escalate.

Honesty has served me well in building trust. I don’t shy away from difficult conversations or sugarcoat realities. Transparency, even in damaging situations, (Ask Lalitha!) gives you credibility and a chance to address problems constructively. I have no memory of compromising on this value—it’s become second nature to be straightforward and clear in every interaction.

3. Truth: The Ultimate Benchmark

For me, truth is non-negotiable. I can’t recall lying because, to me, dishonesty is a sign of cowardice. My commitment to truth has been bolstered by two key factors: subject expertise and personal growth. When you know your work inside out and continually strive to grow, there’s simply no need to distort reality.

Truth isn’t just about facts; it’s about living authentically. Whether it’s professional decisions or personal interactions, I’ve always ensured my actions align with the truth. It simplifies life—no pretence, no hidden agendas.

4. Radical Candour: Blunt, Yet Caring

As a Sagittarian and a High “D” personality, radical candour comes naturally to me. I’ve often found myself in situations where I had to “shoot first and ask questions later”—or, as I like to call it, the “Ready, Fire, Aim” approach.

This trait has helped me navigate difficult conversations with directness and honesty. I don’t sugarcoat feedback, no matter how unpleasant the truth might be. Whether with colleagues, friends, or family, I’ve always spoken bluntly but with the intent to help and improve situations. While this approach may initially unsettle some, it has consistently fostered respect and trust in the long run.

5. Empathy: The Heart of Relationships

Empathy is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence and a value I deeply respect. For me, it’s about doing the best you can for others, empowering them to become better versions of themselves.

Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, I’ve always strived to understand their challenges and offer support. You could ask my relatives or those I’ve worked with directly—they would affirm my efforts to make a positive impact on their lives. I don’t say this to blow my own trumpet, but because empathy is a value I live by quietly and consistently. It’s about being there for others without seeking recognition, simply because it’s the right thing to do.

The Foundation: Integrity as Life Itself

While I haven’t included integrity in this list, it’s because I see it as the foundation upon which all other values stand. Integrity, for me, is as essential as the air we breathe / Heartbeat—without it, life itself loses meaning. It’s not a value to aspire to but an inherent part of being.

Reflections Inspired by Daily Prompts

This blog is just one example of how my Apple Watch prompts encourage me to pause and reflect daily. These 10-minute moments of mindfulness have become an integral part of my life, helping me realign my thoughts and actions with my values. Topics like kindness, relationship challenges, stability, and breaking habits often lead to profound insights and small but meaningful course corrections.

Living a Value-Driven Life

Values are not static—they evolve with us, adapting to the contexts and challenges we face. For me, Adaptability, Honesty, Truth, Radical Candour, and Empathy are more than principles; they are the tools that guide me through life’s complexities. They keep me grounded, authentic, and aligned with my purpose.

As I continue this journey, I’m grateful for the opportunities to reflect, learn, and grow. What values guide your life? Perhaps it’s time to pause, reflect, and rediscover them—it’s a journey worth embarking on.

Karthik

1st Dec 2024

930am.