Karen ,Gone 41 years!!

 #452

4th February marks Karen passing away at the yong age of 32. (Month short of her 33rd Birthday!). (Yes, 4th Feb is also happy memory too, as Radha got engaged to Eshwar, 3 years ago, so some happiness too!).

Karen with her Brother Richard Carppenter.

"Growing up in the 1980s in Karaikudi,/ Madurai / Coimbatore, Karen Carpenter's voice became my solace, a companion through the ups and downs. Her untimely departure in 1983 left a void, but her music continues to touch hearts globally. Songs like 'Close to You,' 'Top of the World,' and 'Rainy Days and Mondays' are timeless classics that resonated with many, offering comfort in solitude. Today, as I pay tribute to this legendary artist, I'm reminded of the lasting impact she had on my life and countless others. Rest in peace, Karen Carpenter."

Oh Yes, I must thank my schoolmate (1978-80) PK Sridhar who introduced me to Carpenters' music. I lost touch with Sridhar about a decade back! Wonder where he is now!?

Favorite songs:

Good Bye to love (More famous for Tony Peluso Interlude Guitar!! give a listen!)

1. Close to You
2. Top of the World
3. Rainy Days and Mondays
4. I wont last a day without you!
5. Please Mr Postman.
6. Jambalya
7. 
   
   
   
   
8. Many won't know Karen was a fabulous Drummer first and then a Singer!!!
9. 
   

Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft----->My All time Favorite, only song I requested to be played on Radio Australia, which they did, unfortunately I could not listen live as I got my job and moved to Bombay. (1985)

Regards

Karthik

4th Feb 2024

My favorite lyrics...

Day after day I must face a world of strangers
Where I don't belong, I'm not that strong
It's nice to know that there's someone I can turn to
Who will always care, you're always there

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you

So many times when the city seems to be
Without a friendly face, a lonely place
It's nice to know that you'll be there if I need you
And you'll always smile, it's all worthwhile

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you

Touch me and I end up singing
Troubles seem to up and disappear
You touch me with the love you're bringing
I can't really lose when you're near
When you're near, my love

If all my friends have forgotten half their promises
They're not unkind, just hard to find
One look at you and I know that I could learn to live
Without the rest, I've found the best

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you
Won't last a day without you, without you

Manage Energy..... Work from Home Goner.....

 #451

In a world where people are reevaluating their professional journeys and even quitting jobs due to a lack of sustained energy, the importance of managing our energy has never been more crucial. Inspired by Tony Schwartz's insightful HBR article on "Managing Energy, Not Time," let's embark on a journey to explore the key components that power our daily lives and work. Whether you're a seasoned professional or aspiring to climb the managerial ladder, understanding how to navigate and optimize your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy can be the game-changer you need. Buckle up as we dive deep into the dos, don'ts, and crucial insights to keep you energized and thriving in the long run. Let's harness the power within to fuel success at work and beyond!🚀💡

Dos:

1. Prioritize tasks and set realistic goals: Break down big tasks, focus on high-priority items, and set achievable deadlines.
2. Schedule breaks: Regular short breaks improve productivity and prevent burnout. Use techniques like the Pomodoro method.
3. Work-life balance: Allocate time for family, hobbies, and relaxation to recharge outside of work hours.
4. Stay physically active: Regular exercise boosts energy levels, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.
5. Positive workplace relationships: Foster a supportive environment, build camaraderie, and communicate openly with colleagues.
6. Quality sleep: Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep for optimal cognitive function and sustained energy.

Don'ts:

1. Avoid overcommitting: Learn to say no to tasks that may overload your plate.
2. Minimize multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to maintain quality and efficiency.
3. Limit caffeine/sugar intake: Excessive consumption can lead to energy crashes; opt for healthier alternatives.
4. Prioritize mental health: Manage stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or counseling.
5. Stay active: Combat sedentary work habits by taking short breaks and incorporating movement into your day.
6. Set work boundaries: Disconnect from work emails or calls during personal time to avoid constant stress.

Components of Energy:

1. Physical Energy:

   • Regular Exercise: Incorporate activities that you enjoy, promoting both physical health and mental well-being.
   • Balanced Nutrition: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods, avoiding excessive reliance on stimulants or processed foods.
   • Quality Sleep: Prioritize consistent and sufficient sleep to enhance overall physical and mental resilience.

2. Emotional Energy:

   • Positive Relationships: Cultivate strong connections with colleagues, friends, and family, as supportive relationships contribute to emotional well-being.
   • Stress Management: Develop effective coping mechanisms for handling stress, such as mindfulness, meditation, or seeking professional guidance.
   • Expressing Emotions: Openly acknowledging and expressing emotions fosters emotional intelligence and resilience.

3. Mental Energy:

   • Continuous Learning: Stimulate mental energy by pursuing ongoing education, staying curious, and embracing a growth mindset.
   • Problem-Solving: Engage in critical thinking and problem-solving exercises to keep the mind sharp and agile.
   • Creativity: Encourage creative pursuits and approaches to tasks, fostering innovation and preventing monotony.

4. Spiritual Energy:

   • Values Alignment: Connect your work with personal values, finding purpose and meaning in your professional endeavors.
   • Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to stay present, focused, and attuned to your inner self.

Remember, managing energy rather than just time can lead to sustained high performance and well-being.

As we wrap up our exploration into the intricate world of managing energy for sustained success, remember this – in the pursuit of professional excellence, it's not just about managing time; it's about optimizing the energy that fuels our every endeavor. From prioritizing tasks to nurturing positive relationships, from staying physically active to fostering a sense of purpose, each component contributes to a holistic approach to long-term well-being.

In the words of Tony Schwartz, "The more value we add, the more energy we need to invest." So, let's continue investing wisely in our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy. Whether you're a seasoned manager or someone aiming for the top, the journey toward lasting success is fueled by understanding and harnessing the power within. Here's to a future where our energy becomes the driving force behind our achievements. Stay energized, stay inspired, and keep thriving in every step of your journey! 🌟💪

++++++++++

IBM orders managers to return onsite or leave the company: reports..... My view on this! 

Brief list on the advantages, disadvantages, generational perspectives, and the shift back to the office:

Advantages of Work From Home (WFH):

1. Flexibility: Allows employees to create a personalized work environment.
2. Time and Cost Savings: Commute time and expenses are significantly reduced.
3. Increased Productivity: Many find a more focused and efficient work atmosphere at home.
4. Work-Life Balance: Easier integration of work into personal life.

Disadvantages of WFH:

1. Isolation: Lack of social interaction and potential feelings of isolation.
2. Distractions: Home environments may introduce various distractions.
3. Communication Challenges: Face-to-face communication can be replaced by digital means.
4. Blurred Boundaries: Difficulty in separating work and personal life.

Generational Perspectives on WFH:

1. Millennials and Gen Z: Often appreciate the flexibility and work-life integration.
2. Gen X: May find a balance between the benefits and challenges.
3. Baby Boomers: Might value traditional office structures and face-to-face interaction.

Return to Office Trends:

1. Company Culture: Maintaining and fostering company culture is challenging in a fully remote setting.
2. Collaboration: In-person collaboration is perceived as more effective for certain tasks.
3. Management Oversight: Some companies believe physical presence enhances management oversight.
4. Team Building: Building and maintaining strong teams is seen as more achievable in person.

Companies are now calling employees back to the office to strike a balance between the advantages of WFH and the need for in-person collaboration. The shift acknowledges the importance of both flexibility and the benefits derived from traditional office environments. The decision is often driven by the desire to maintain company culture, enhance collaboration, and provide employees with a sense of belonging.

Regards

Karthik

3/2/24 2pm

Blog Idea from Economist and FT Articles which I read today.

Sathabhisekham (81st Birthday) Celebrations.

Lalitha and I had the privilege of attending Sathabhishekam, seeking blessings from the couple who are Lalitha's paternal cousin's father and mother-in-law in Bangalore. It was a significant and joyous occasion for us. This marks my third Sathabhishekam attendance, the first being in 1981 for my grandfather, the second in 2018 for my father-in-law. Today, a special ceremony honored Lalitha's parents being older than the couple who were celebrant. The event took place at the ISKCON Hall, and the quality of the food, including breakfast and lunch, was exceptional.

Sathabhishekam" refers to the 80th birthday celebrations of a male individual(Few are Blessed to have his wife alongside) among Tamil Brahmins. It's a significant milestone, marked by rituals and festivities to honor the individual's longevity. In addition to the celebrations, "Sathabhishekam" often involves religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and charitable activities. It's a momentous occasion in Tamil Brahmin culture, symbolizing respect for elders and the continuation of family traditions.Rituals during "Sathabhishekam" often include special prayers, homams (ritual fires), and other religious ceremonies seeking blessings for the individual's well-being. "Sathabhishekam" may involve cultural events, feasts, and the exchange of gifts.

The celebrant, with their Daughter in law, (Who is Lalitha's cousin). 

Lalitha's parents. At front is Lalitha's Aunt. (Father's sister)

Lalitha Parents honored with a special rituals (They being elder than celebrant).

Karthik.

2.2.24

1400 Hrs. 

1/31/99----> Turning Point in my life..!!!

25 years ago, I embarked on a journey that would reshape my professional life – the discovery of the internet. Landing at Narita Airport on 31/1/99 for a three-week AOTS scholarship on Environmental Management in Yokohama marked the beginning. The chilly -4°C weather couldn't dampen my excitement.

Sangyo Sinkho Center- Yokohama Lane.

After settling in at the Sangyo Singo Center, I stumbled upon a room with computer terminals. Intrigued, I inquired and learned they were Internet Terminals. Alta Vista was the search engine of the time, and as I delved into this evolving internet landscape, I found a trove of information on Japan – its culture, politics, and even somber moments like Hiroshima.

Upon returning to India, my internet exploration continued at a Cybercafe in Mangalore. At Rs. 150 per hour, internet surfing was a luxury, but it was worth it. I created my first email account, Karaiku**@hotmail.com, which has stood the test of time. I use it even now for all subscription emails.

June 1999 marked a milestone as I purchased my computer (Dad subidised 80% money from his retirement as gift,Money was still tough those days)! at home and later embraced Dial-Up internet with a dedicated phone line. Little did I know that this digital leap would play a pivotal role in my professional journey.

1999 Mangalore- Dial up connection, (Sathyam!) Shravan won't beleive it!

Internet connectivity facilitated connections with American friends and engagement in safety discussions portals. It became a powerful tool during job interviews, leaving American managers were thrilled that an Indian safety professional could quote OSHA- CFR sections. The internet, a catalyst for success, opened new horizons and opportunities.

Reflecting on that fateful day, 1/31/99, I can confidently say it changed the trajectory of my professional life. Time flies, and the internet has been my steadfast companion on this transformative journey.

Regards

Karthik

1/2/24.

Back to Japan in 2008, HonJo-Waseda Station waiting for Bullet train to Narita.