Thursday, December 14, 2023

Back In India after 36 years

Guess what? The long-awaited moment is here! My cousin, the incredible Gandhi Mohan, Viswanathan (or as we lovingly call him, Babuji), along with his lovely wife Heather Jennings, have touched down in Bangalore! Can you believe it?

Now, here's the kicker – Babuji, a Brazilian citizen rocking the world as a Physics Professor in Natal, North Brazil, (After academic stint in USA) has finally graced India with his presence after a whopping 36 years. Yeah, you read that right, 36 whole years! Last time we crossed paths was way back in 1988 when he dipped his toes into India's educational waters for a year,at the American College in Madurai. Time flies, huh?

Oh, and Heather? She's a spirited American from Colorado Mountains, sharing an incredible 24 years of marriage with Babuji. Talk about a duo! Heather is back in India after 30 years. (She was in Pune for 3 months back then). 

They're not here to just twiddle their thumbs, though. Babuji's got a physics / Electronics seminar lined up tomorrow, 200 kilometers away in Vellore and then catching up with his parents who moved back from USA in May (They too, back in India after 60 years stay in USA / Brazil). But fret not! After his gig, he's dedicating a solid three days – the 27th, 28th, and 29th – to hang out with us before jetting back on the 29th, late night. Talk about a whirlwind visit!

And you know what's the absolute best part? We guys have history! Our dads, brothers, were each other's wingmen back in the '60s, lifting each other up and setting the foundation for where we are today.

Babuji's only been here for 16 hours, and he's already amazed! The changes he's seen? Mind-blowing! He's marveling at the roads, the Auto-Rixa, feeling safe without having to dodge any gun violence as well as buying an Indian Mobile Sim card in minutes. Gotta love that fresh perspective! Oh, Yes, he landed without a $$ in cash!! That is some adventure...!!

Can you feel the excitement bubbling up? Because I sure can! Catching up with Babuji after all these years is going to be an absolute blast. Can't wait to share stories, laughter, and probably a ton of nostalgic moments! (In my Blog)

Stay tuned for the adventures that unfold!

Catch you later,






Karthik 🎉

14th Dec 2023. 

He on his way to Vellore this morning. 


Tuesday, December 12, 2023

My Social Media time.

In a world captivated by tweets, likes, and endless scrolls, my day unfolds in a different rhythm, detached from the buzz of social media. Many wonder how I navigate this modern age without plunging into the digital whirlpool. Here's a glimpse into how I craft my time sans the virtual noise, making every hour count.

Mornings kick off with purpose as I embark on a three-hour stride, (Spread across 3 sessions, 530am, 130pm, 5pm) not just a walk but a journey of thought and learning. With earphones plugged in, the world of podcasts becomes my companion. At a lightning-fast 3X speed, I immerse myself in episodes that enlighten, challenge, and provoke thought. From the managerial insights of Manager Tools to the in-depth analyses of The Economist, these auditory adventures are my gateway to diverse perspectives. This also help me reach about 20,000 steps a day at my home terrace.

But it doesn't end there. The rest of my day finds solace in the embrace of books, those tangible portals to wisdom. Nonfictional realms open up, inviting exploration into realms of management, global politics, and the intricate web of corporate life. While others flick through newsfeeds, my chosen path diverges—I tread through curated websites, selectively absorbing the day's happenings and nuances, diving deeper for comprehensive understanding.

Occasionally, when the podcast waves fall short, I turn to YouTube, seeking visual cues on current affairs, capturing insights that escape the audio realm.



Podcasts:-

  1. Daybreak
  2. The Duran Podcast
  3. The Economics of Everyday Things
  4. Economist Podcasts (subscriber edition)
  5. Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee
  6. Freakonomics Radio
  7. FT News Briefing
  8. FT Tech Tonic
  9. HBR IdeaCast
  10. Hidden Brain 
  11. Hot Money: The New Narcos
  12. The Jaipur Dialogues (Defunct- Rarely listen)
  13. The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
  14. The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish
  15. Larry Kudlow Show Presented by Priority Gold
  16. Lex Fridman Podcast
  17. The Megyn Kelly Show
  18. The Mel Robbins Podcast
  19. Moonshots with Peter Diamandis
  20. The Next Five
  21. No Stupid Questions
  22. PBD Podcast (Patrick Beth David)
  23. People I (Mostly) Admire
  24. Pivot
  25. PreAccident Investigation Podcast
  26. The Rachman Review
  27. The Rubin Report
  28. Safety Labs by Slice
  29. Stories From India
  30. The Stories of Mahabharata
  31. Talks at Google
  32. TED Talks Daily
  33. TRIGGERnometry
  34. The Tucker Carlson Podcast
  35. UnHerd with Freddie Sayers
  36. Uploads (Mp3 file from server downloaded to app). 
  37. Verdict with Ted Cruz
  38. When Science Finds a Way
  39. WorkLife with Adam Grant

Books I read / Plan to read at Present:-


News Site I check everyday at One CLICK. 


Through out the day, the Youtube Music (Instrumental runs on background to keep me going!). 
So 16 Hrs is not enough, (With time spent on working on my both Personal and EHS Blog. www.oriontranscendershess.com 
Regards
Karthik
12/12/23. 10am. 

Monday, December 11, 2023

Personal Updates.

Yesterday, on the 10th of December 2023 (Sunday), marked Radha and Eshwar's Second Wedding Anniversary. It's astonishing how swiftly time flies. I vividly recall the chaotic yet hilarious moments when it seemed like World War III erupted at home, all centered around the pivotal reason for her marriage! Ah, the amusing chaos that ensued! Also, It's reminiscent of Laltiha's journey back in 1990 when she traveled miles to meet me in Bharuch and she said "YES". Similarly, Radha ventured across miles to encounter Eshwar in New York back in 2020, a moment that eventually led to her saying YES.


Today, the 11th of December (Monday),also holds special significance as it marks the 1st Wedding Anniversary for Shravan and Sangeetha, who are currently relishing their time in Udaipur. I can still vividly remember that Summer day in 2019 when Shravan, amidst stutters and stammers, stood on our terrace, wanting to let me know, his feelings for Sangeetha. My response? A resounding YES, uttered in mere nanoseconds! hahahhahahah!!!!!


Shravan, Sangeetha, Radha, and Eshwar are nothing short of divine blessings bestowed upon us. They are our four cherished children, and the bond they share is simply remarkable. May this bond endure and flourish for decades to come.


Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a "MEETUP" session on a networking platform that connects like-minded individuals both virtually and in person. This past Saturday, I engaged in a captivating 90-minute virtual session on Forming Habits, hosted by Mr. Sunil. The insights gained were truly enriching, and I plan to delve deeper into such avenues to further enrich my personal growth in the months ahead.

Additionally, I've embarked formally on a new journey as an Insurance Advisor, a significant diversification in my career. Having successfully passed the insurance regulatory exam, I'm gearing up to reach out to individuals in the days ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on this front! I shall be harrassing you a bit on this to get business like a shameless Salesman!

On a more somber note, today also marks the 22nd Anniversary of my Aunt, Savithri (Periamma). Her guiding presence was a pillar of strength for both my dad and mom, and her absence continues to be deeply felt. With my mom and she gone, the bonding between us cousins are never the same!! We need to work something.

I end this post with an exciting, reunion planned with my cousin Viswanathan Gandhimohan, (Chitappa's son) after 36 years on 13th December here at Bangalore. India will appear very different for this Brazilian citizen!



Warm regards,

Karthik

11th Dec 2023.

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Avoiding Hand Baggage Mix-Ups: Tips for Stress-Free Travel




This week, we found ourselves in a nerve-wracking situation—a hand baggage mix-up at the airport up on deplaning. Let me tell you, it's an adrenaline rush you don’t anticipate during travel. Fortunately, after a harrowing 90 minutes, the situation was resolved. A stroke of luck was on our side as the connecting flight allowed for a generous 3-hour window. So here we go..............

Ever experienced that heart-stopping moment when your hand baggage gets mixed up (Security Check / Deplaning)? It can be quite the adrenaline rush, especially after a very long day of travel without sleep etc. or work. Here are some tips to avoid this travel hassle.

The Identical Bag Dilemma

Picture this: a long day of travel, exhaustion creeping in, and then the dreaded moment when you realize your hand baggage looks identical to someone else's. It’s a genuine mix-up, and let's face it, it can happen to the best of us.

Preventing Mix-Ups

1. Personalize Your Bag: Adding distinctive tags, ribbons, or even a touch of personalization like stickers or initials can instantly distinguish your bag from the sea of look-alikes. Always leave some contact information inside your bag where it can be seen, with a busienss card, etc.

2. Take Precautionary Snaps: A quick photo of your bag before boarding can act as a lifesaver when identifying it in the event of a mix-up.

3. Early Arrival at the Gate: Arriving early and boarding as early as practically possible, gives you the advantage of choosing the best spot for your baggage, reducing the chances of it being shifted around.

4. Develop a habit of placing your bag in the same spot every time to minimize confusion during retrieval. ( I have this habit, always at the edge, never at middle)

Empathy and Understanding

Acknowledging that travel fatigue can affect anyone is crucial. That fellow traveler with the identical bag might be just as tired and stressed as you are. A gentle reminder to check before taking any bag can go a long way in preventing mix-ups.

Handling a Mix-Up

In case of an accidental swap, approaching the situation with calmness and understanding is key. The person holding your bag might be equally anxious about the mix-up.

Reporting and Resolving

Promptly informing airline staff about the mix-up is essential. They can assist in locating your bag or addressing the issue swiftly.

Vigilance in Tight Connections

When your connecting flight has a short turnaround time, staying vigilant becomes paramount. The rush and urgency to make it to your next flight might inadvertently increase the chances of a mix-up.

1. Prioritize Quick Checks: In scenarios where time is limited, prioritize a quick but thorough check of your belongings. Be mindful when stowing your hand baggage and ensure it’s in a spot easily accessible for retrieval.

2. Reconfirm Bag Identification: Take a moment before deplaning to reconfirm that you're grabbing your own bag. A brief pause to double-check the identification, can prevent a mix-up down the line.

3. Communication is Key: If you notice someone handling a bag resembling yours, politely inquire to avoid any confusion later.

4. Alertness is Your Responsibility: While airlines and airport staff assist, ultimate responsibility for your belongings rests with you. Stay alert and aware of your hand baggage to avoid mix-ups, particularly in tight connections.

The Role of GPS Tags (Strongly suggested for Corporate Laptop etc.)

1. Enhanced Security: GPS tags provide an extra layer of security. In the unfortunate event of a mix-up or loss, these tags help track the exact location of your bag, reducing stress and expediting recovery.

2. Real-Time Monitoring: With GPS-enabled tags, you can monitor your bag's location in real time through a smartphone app or website. This feature adds peace of mind during travel, especially when dealing with valuable or critical items.

3. Ease of Retrieval: Should your bag get misplaced or mistakenly taken, GPS tracking makes retrieval simpler. You can swiftly pinpoint its location, aiding airport staff or authorities in locating and returning it to you promptly.

4. Considerations and Precautions: While incredibly useful, ensure the GPS tags comply with airline regulations and security protocols. Some airlines may have specific guidelines or restrictions regarding electronic devices or trackers on luggage.

5. Cost and Maintenance: Investing in GPS tags comes with a cost, both for the device itself and any associated subscription or service fees. Regularly checking the device's battery life and ensuring it's operational before each trip is essential.

Conclusion

Hand baggage mix-ups, while nerve-wracking, can be easily avoided with a few proactive measures and a sprinkle of understanding. A small effort can ensure a stress-free travel experience for everyone involved.

Maintaining vigilance, especially during short / connecting flights, significantly reduces the likelihood of mix-ups. A few extra seconds dedicated to confirming your belongings can save you from unnecessary stress and ensure a seamless travel experience.

In the whirlwind of tight connections, a moment of attentiveness can make all the difference!

Integrating GPS tags into critical baggage can be a smart move for added security and peace of mind. However, it's vital to understand the airline's regulations, consider associated costs, and maintain the device's functionality to maximize its benefits.

Remember, a little consideration and empathy can go a long way in making travel smoother for everyone!

Enjoy the travel.

Regards

Karthik.

10th Dec 2023.

Saturday, December 09, 2023

Learning from Failures. My 6 learnings (one for each decade of my life!).


Currently engrossed in the pages of Amy Edmondson's acclaimed "Right Kind of Wrong," hailed as the 2023 Financial Times Book of the Year, I'm delving deep into the profound concept of failure as a pathway to growth and enlightenment. My reflections echo the essence of the book as I unravel six pivotal failures—one for each decade of my life—navigating the lessons learned and the transformative power therein. This introspective journey not only delves into my personal experiences but also touches upon the fundamental tenets of the book, presenting an insightful overview. With its commendable content earning the prestigious £30,000 award, "Right Kind of Wrong" stands as a compelling investment, a beacon illuminating the profound potential nestled within failure's embrace.


Exploring Failures and Life Lessons Through "The Right Kind of Wrong"

Reflecting on pivotal moments in life, here are six major failures that have significantly shaped my journey:

  1. Ingersoll Rand Offer: (2012) Accepting the Ingersoll Rand offer 72 hours, after initial rejection, swayed by persuasive arguments from the recruiter, only to realize within four months that it wasn't the right fit and we parted ways. This decision, while initially unsettling, ultimately led me toward safety consultancy, offering the freedom and autonomy to shape my work life according to my preferences. I began to form a rule, “Never change a first opinion”, however, unclear it may be at that time; which I implemented as late as this week. 
  2. Attention to Detail: At a project site in 1988, an adamant stance on missing machinery spares led to a humbling lesson. Despite escalating the issue, it turned out the parts were indeed in place and I was under the hammer from my gentlemanly boss.  This experience taught me the critical importance of thorough verification and attention to detail in all aspects of life.
  3. Job Change for Pay Rise: Late 1980s, A hasty job change in pursuit of a very significant pay rise led me into a not so great life in a remote city. (Not that Ankleswhar in Gujarat where I moved from, was great city to live!) and I had a boomerang job offer at the new pay within 5 months. This tumultuous experience highlighted the necessity of sound judgment, Developing resillience and positive mindset, especially during personal challenges, which I embraced in the months that followed,  and the perils of making decisions based solely on financial gains which I never allowed again. Also, several of my personal resolve were severely tested here. 
  4. Pursuit of Growth vs. Stability: Contemplating whether my pursuit of growth, learning, and global exposure, Subject mastery, meeting people across Geography/ Culture, led me to forego stability that might have come with long-term commitment to a single organization with its own benefits. Limited choices due to the absence of intra-company transfers across Indian Geography, made this reflection all the more poignant. 
  5. Radical Candour and Relationships: Recognizing a flaw in radical candour—a tendency to speak bluntly without considering the impact of words ( I am a High "D"- I don't mind- You Don't matter) —prompted introspection. Wondering if curbing this trait might have fostered better relationships and communication, balancing honesty with sensitivity at work as well with relatives and family. I would think this is a major area of improvement for me.
  6. Parental Approval: Comparing the pride I feel in my children's success in life, to the unknown sentiments of my parents. Contemplating whether I fulfilled my responsibilities as a son to qualify as a success, especially in my father's eyes, remains a lingering question. I will never know the answer. 

Each of these failures has been a stepping stone, providing invaluable life lessons and shaping my personal and professional growth. "The Right Kind of Wrong" profoundly resonates as I correlate these failures with the pursuit of learning and self-improvement.

Verdict:- My family feels that these are not a failures but a slip... I would leave the interpretation to them! 

+++++++

In her award-winning book "The Right Kind of Wrong," Amy Edmondson challenges our traditional perception of failure and presents a compelling argument that it can be a powerful tool for progress and innovation. She distinguishes between three types of failure:

1. Basic Failures: These are caused by carelessness, inattention, or a lack of essential skills. While these failures are undesirable and should be prevented, they often provide valuable learning opportunities.

2. Complex Failures: These arise from the inherent difficulty or complexity of a task. They often involve multiple factors and are difficult to predict or prevent.

3. Intelligent Failures: These are intentional experiments or calculated risks that are taken in pursuit of new knowledge or innovation. They are often necessary for progress and can lead to significant breakthroughs.

Edmondson argues that intelligent failures are not only acceptable but essential for learning and growth. She emphasizes the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where individuals feel comfortable taking risks, speaking up about mistakes, and learning from others' failures. By embracing intelligent failures, organizations can foster a culture of innovation and achieve sustainable success.

Here are some of the key takeaways from "The Right Kind of Wrong":

1. Failure is not the opposite of success; it is a necessary part of the learning process.

2. Intelligent failures are the right kind of wrong because they lead to innovation and progress.

3. Organizations can create a psychologically safe environment where intelligent failures are encouraged and learned from.

4. By embracing intelligent failures, organizations can foster a culture of innovation and achieve sustainable success.

"The Right Kind of Wrong" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the role of failure in learning and innovation. Edmondson's insights can help individuals, teams, and organizations create a culture where failure is seen as an opportunity for growth, rather than a threat.

++++++

Here are some key organizational and personal failures that Edmondson elucidates:-

  • Failure Type Organizational Failures
  • Basic Failure Columbia Space Shuttle, Challenger Space Shuttle
  • Complex Failure Ford Motor Company
  • Intelligent Failure Exxon Valdez, Theranos

Organizational Failures

Columbia Space Shuttle: The Columbia Space Shuttle disaster was caused by a basic failure, namely ignoring warnings about O-ring failure. Despite having knowledge of the potential problem, NASA officials failed to take adequate action to address it, resulting in the loss of the shuttle and its crew.
Challenger Space Shuttle: The Challenger Space Shuttle disaster was another example of a basic failure. The O-rings, which were responsible for sealing the joints between the solid rocket boosters and the external tank, failed due to cold temperatures. This failure caused an explosion that destroyed the shuttle and killed its crew.
Ford Motor Company: The Ford Pinto gas tank design flaw was a complex failure that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. The Pinto's gas tank was located in a vulnerable position, and it could easily rupture in a rear-end collision. Ford was aware of the problem, but it chose not to recall the Pinto because the cost of doing so was deemed to be too high.

Personal Failures

Exxon Valdez: The Exxon Valdez oil spill was an intelligent failure. The captain of the Exxon Valdez made a series of poor decisions that led to the ship grounding on a reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska. This resulted in a massive oil spill that caused widespread environmental damage.
Theranos: Theranos was a company that developed blood testing technology that promised to revolutionize the healthcare industry. However, the company's technology was based on flawed science, and it was unable to deliver on its promises. Theranos's CEO, Elizabeth Holmes, was convicted of fraud for her role in the company's deception.

These are just a few examples of the many organizational and personal failures that Edmondson discusses in her book. Her work provides valuable insights into the nature of failure and how it can be prevented and learned from.

+++++++

Practical aspects from Amy Edmondson's book "Right Kind of Wrong":

1. Reframe the narrative:

Shift your mindset: See failure as a learning opportunity, not a setback. Celebrate small wins and failures as steps in the right direction.
Focus on progress, not perfection: Aim for "good enough," not perfect, to encourage experimentation and learning.
Learn from mistakes: Analyze failures systematically, identify root causes, and implement changes to prevent future occurrences.

2. Foster psychological safety:

Create environments where people feel safe to speak up, take risks, and admit mistakes.
Encourage open communication, vulnerability, and transparency.
Celebrate learning and acknowledge effort, not just outcomes.
Empower team members to make decisions and take ownership.

3. Build resilience:

Develop coping mechanisms for dealing with setbacks.
Practice self-compassion and forgiveness.
Find inspiration from others who have learned from failure.
Maintain a growth mindset and focus on continuous learning.

4. Practice "failing well":

Plan for failure: Consider potential risks and have backup plans.
Fail fast: Experiment with small, manageable projects to minimize potential downsides.
Learn from each iteration: Use data and feedback to improve future efforts.
Share learnings with others: Help others learn from your mistakes and avoid similar pitfalls.

5. Use failure as a competitive advantage:

Develop a culture of innovation by embracing failure as a necessary part of learning.
Attract and retain top talent who are not afraid to take risks and learn from mistakes.
Become more adaptable and resilient in a rapidly changing environment.

Additional practical tips:

Keep a failure journal: Document your experiences with failure and analyze your learnings.
Seek feedback from trusted advisors and mentors.
Join support groups or communities focused on learning from failure.
Use visualization techniques to imagine success and overcome fear of failure.
Celebrate your successes, big or small, to maintain motivation and confidence.

By implementing these practical aspects from Amy Edmondson's book, you can develop a healthy relationship with failure and leverage it to become a better learner, leader, and innovator. Remember, "failing well" is not about failing more, but about failing smarter.

Let me know your comments
Karthik.

9th Dec 23.