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‘This or That or That’ vs. ‘Take it or Leave It’ Choices: Preparing Kids for Life’s Challenges

Rajesh Soundararajan on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshsound

Life is full of choices, and as parents, it’s our responsibility to teach our children how to make wise decisions. From small, inconsequential choices such as what toothpaste to buy to life-changing decisions like taking a job offer, we encounter two choices: ‘This or That or That’ and ‘Take it or Leave It.’ Understanding the differences between the two can help our children develop the life skills they need to navigate life’s challenges.

‘This or That or That’ are the small, everyday decisions we make, such as choosing a brand of soap, deciding what to have for dinner, or picking an outfit for the day. In these situations, we have multiple options to choose from, and we can take our time to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

On the other hand, ‘Take it or Leave It’ choices are the big, crucial decisions we encounter. These decisions that can have a significant impact on our lives, such as getting admission to a top university, accepting a job offer when unemployed, or negotiating a business deal. In these situations, time is limited, and we must decide quickly. It’s often a matter of taking the opportunity presented to us or walking away altogether.

As parents, it’s our responsibility to prepare our children for both types of choices. We need to teach them about the importance of making wise decisions, even when the options are limited. We can do this by giving them the freedom to make decisions and learn from their mistakes. We can encourage them to take calculated risks and help them develop the confidence they need to face challenges head-on.

However, some argue that exposing children to tough choices can make them anxious and uncertain about their futures. Parents may feel that by guiding their children towards a particular option, they can protect them from the disappointment of making the wrong choice. However, this approach may lead to children becoming overly reliant on their parents to make decisions, and may even limit their independence. Worse still, they do not realise that life is not so pardoning.

Therefore, it’s crucial to strike a balance between shielding our kids from the harsh realities of life and preparing them for it. By teaching them about both types of choices, we can help them develop the life skills they need to succeed in the real world. We can show them that life is not always fair, and they won’t always have the luxury of choosing between multiple options. We must teach them that some decisions need to be made quickly, and they must be prepared to make tough choices when the situation calls for it.

‘This or That or That’ and ‘Take it or Leave It’ choices are essential aspects of life, and we must teach our children about both to prepare them for the challenges they will encounter. By giving them the tools to make wise decisions, we can help them navigate life’s challenges with more ease and achieve their goals. As parents, it’s our responsibility to prepare our children for the future by teaching them valuable life skills such as decision-making, independence, and resilience.

Keywords: decision-making, parenting, preparation, life skills, opportunities

#decisionmaking #parenting #lifeskills #opportunities #preparation

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Dissenters: The Guardians of Democracy

Rajesh Soundararajan on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshsound

I had earlier written earlier on “Why Cultivating a Culture of Dissent is Crucial for the Future of Work”. But then dissent is as crucial for democracy as for corporates.

In today’s world, as much as it has always been in the past, dissent is often seen as a threat to the established order. Those who challenge prevailing assumptions and speak out against injustice or unfairness may (do) face opposition, ostracism, or even persecution. However, despite their challenges, dissenters play a crucial role in promoting progress, protecting democracy, and preventing the rise of authoritarianism.

Dissenters: The Guardians of Democracy

Dissenters are individuals who hold views that differ from those held by the majority, and are willing to express those views in the face of opposition. They may be motivated by a range of factors, including

  • personal convictions,
  • commitment to progress,
  • empathy and concern for others, and
  • intellectual curiosity.

While dissent may (will) require courage and may (will) be met with resistance, it is a vital component of a healthy and thriving society.

One of the key roles of dissenters is to challenge prevailing assumptions and promote critical thinking. By offering new perspectives and ideas, dissenters can help to spark innovation and progress, driving society forward and improving the lives of individuals and communities. In some cases, dissenters may be motivated by a desire to bring about social or political change, and may be instrumental in advocating for the rights of marginalized or oppressed groups.

Dissenters also play a crucial role in protecting democracy and preventing the rise of authoritarianism. In a healthy democracy, diverse perspectives and opinions are valued, and individuals are free to express their views without fear of persecution or retribution. However, in situations where dissent is suppressed or punished, there is a risk of erosion of democracy and freedom, as people may become discouraged or intimidated from expressing opinions that differ from the status quo.

“Dissent, rebellion, and all-around hell-raising remain the true duty of patriots.”

Barbara Ehrenreich

In recent years, we have seen a rise of authoritarianism and populism in many parts of the world. In this context, dissenters are often viewed as a threat to the established order, and face persecution, violence, or censorship. However, it is precisely in these contexts that dissenters play a crucial role in safeguarding democracy and protecting human rights.

History has shown us the power of dissenters to bring about positive change and prevent the rise of authoritarianism. From civil rights activists to environmental advocates to social reformers, dissenters have played a vital role in driving progress and promoting justice and equality. Even in situations where their views are initially met with resistance or hostility, dissenters have the potential to make a lasting impact on society, influencing the trajectory of history and shaping the world in profound ways.

Throughout history, dissenters have played a crucial role in driving progress and promoting social change. From civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., to social reformers like Jane Addams, to political activists like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, dissenters have challenged the status quo and brought attention to important issues that might otherwise have been ignored or suppressed. These dissenters were often met with resistance, ridicule, and even violence, but they persisted in their efforts to promote change and left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and inform us today. By speaking out against injustice, advocating for the rights of marginalized groups, and challenging prevailing assumptions, these dissenters made a profound impact on the world and helped to shape the course of history.

“Dissent is essential in any democracy. Without dissent, we risk slipping into complacency and conformity, and losing sight of the values and principles that underpin our society.”

Helen Clark

In recent years, with the rise of social media and technology giants like Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and Google (FAANG), we’re supposed to give a platform and make it easier for dissenters to share their views and connect with like-minded individuals. However, this has also given these companies tremendous power and influence over the flow of information. They have often been accused of using their clout to silence dissenting voices. In the current digital landscape, dissenters face the challenge of raising their voices and not getting cowed down by powerful corporations that control the platforms they use to share their messages. As social media platforms continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping public opinion, it is more important than ever to safeguard the right to dissent and to promote a culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages respectful dialogue.

In conclusion, while dissenters may not rule the world, they are instrumental in preventing a collapse of world order and authoritarianism. By promoting critical thinking, advocating for progress, protecting democracy, and speaking out against injustice, dissenters play a vital role in shaping the future of society and ensuring that our world remains a place where diverse perspectives are valued and human rights are protected.

Keywords: Dissenters, Democracy, Critical Thinking, Free Speech, Innovation, Progress, Social Change, Activism, Resistance, Accountability

#Dissenters #Democracy #CriticalThinking #FreeSpeech #Innovation #Progress #SocialChange #Activism #Resistance #Accountability

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The Art of Making Faster Decisions

Mastering Decision-Making: Tips for Making Faster and Better Choices

Rajesh Soundararajan on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshsound

Do you ever find yourself stuck in indecision, struggling to make a choice and feeling like you’re wasting time? If so, you’re not alone. Decision-making can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be a source of stress and anxiety.

The Art of Making Faster Decisions

Here are a few tips to help you make faster, more confident decisions:

  1. Set a deadline: When you’re facing a decision, give yourself a deadline to make it. This can help you avoid getting bogged down in analysis paralysis and make a choice more quickly.
  2. Prioritize your values: Think about what’s most important to you, and use that as a guide for your decision-making. This can help you quickly eliminate options that don’t align with your core values.
  3. Limit your options: Too many choices can be overwhelming and lead to decision fatigue. Try to narrow down your options to just a few, and focus on choosing the best one from that smaller set.
  4. Listen to your gut feeling: Your intuition can be a powerful tool in decision-making. Pay attention to your instincts and feelings, and trust yourself to make the right choice.
  5. Consider the consequences: Think about the potential outcomes of each option, and how they will impact you in the short and long term. This can help you make a more informed decision and avoid making impulsive choices.
  6. Think of your time as money: Every moment you spend deliberating is a moment you could be spending on something else. Remember that time is a valuable resource, and use it wisely.
  7. Remember that indecision kills: Delaying a decision can be just as harmful as making the wrong one. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from taking action.
  8. Know that decisiveness grows with each decision: The more you practice decision-making, the easier it will become. Start with small decisions and work your way up to bigger ones. Over time, you’ll develop the confidence and skills you need to make decisions quickly and effectively.

It’s important to note that not making a decision can also be considered a decision, as long as it’s done intentionally and with a purpose. In some cases, not making a decision can be the best option. For example, if you’re presented with a choice between two options, and neither of them is a good fit for your values or goals, it may be better to refrain from making a decision and continue searching for a better option. Or, if you’re not sure what to do in a situation that requires more information or input from others, it may be wise to wait until you have more clarity before making a decision.

However, it’s important to be mindful of the potential consequences of not making a decision. In some cases, delaying a decision or avoiding it altogether can lead to missed opportunities or increased stress and uncertainty. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider the potential outcomes of not making a decision, in addition to the outcomes of making one.

Ultimately, the decision to not make a decision should be made intentionally and with purpose, rather than as a default or as a way of avoiding responsibility. It’s important to be honest with yourself and others about why you’re choosing not to make a decision, and to communicate your intentions clearly and respectfully.

Keywords: decision-making, faster decisions, confidence, values, intuition, consequences, time management, mindfulness, deliberate decision-making

#decisionmaking #fasterdecisions #confidence #values #intuition #consequences #timemanagement #mindfulness #deliberatedecisionmaking

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A Job or Lack Thereof : A Poetic Narration

Beyond Job Loss: Embracing Your True Worth and Purpose –

Rajesh Soundararajan on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshsound

“An impressionist Painting showing a human being Embracing the universe with a higher purpose”
It's not the title on the card, 
Or the paycheck that we hoard.
A measure of worth, it's not at all,
For a human is far more.
We are a canvas, yet to be filled, 
With talents, dreams, and skills.
A job, just a speck in our lives,
In the grand scheme, it just thrives.
So when you lose that job, don't grieve, 
For the universe has something up its sleeve.
Take a step back, breathe, and believe,
That what has happened, you can't retrieve.
Be grateful for what you have, 
And the path that you already have.
For it can positively impact the future,
In the larger plan, it's just a suture.
Across cultures and faith, they say, 
If He brought you into this world,
He's got a way.
Just be patient and accept,
And do your best, without expecting an effect.
So rise up, and reach for the stars, 
For a bigger dream, and better scars.
You are more than just a job or pay,
For you are a unique and special being, in your own way.
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Raising Rockstars: The Impact of Parenting Style and Self-Motivation in Kids

Parenting is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles that a person can take on. As parents, we all want our children to grow up to be happy, healthy, and successful adults. However, the path to achieving that goal is not always clear or easy. One of the most important factors that can impact a child’s development is the type of parenting they receive. In particular, the relationship between discipline and self-motivation in kids can have a significant impact on how they develop and behave.

To understand the impact of parenting on kids, it is helpful to look at a 2×2 matrix that combines the two factors of discipline and self-motivation. The matrix has four quadrants, each representing a different type of parenting style and its impact on kids.

The first quadrant is permissive parenting with high self-motivation in kids. This type of parenting is characterized by a lack of discipline and a focus on allowing children to make their own choices and decisions. Parents who adopt this style may be more focused on being their child’s friend than their parent. While this type of parenting can lead to children who are independent and confident, it can also lead to children who are eccentric or out of touch with reality.

The second quadrant is rejecting-neglecting parenting with low self-motivation in kids. This type of parenting is characterized by a lack of discipline, attention, and support. Parents who adopt this style may be more focused on their own needs and desires than on their child’s well-being. This type of parenting can lead to children who are rogue, rebellious, and disengaged from the world around them.

The third quadrant is authoritative parenting with high self-motivation in kids. This type of parenting is characterized by a balance of discipline and support. Parents who adopt this style provide clear rules and boundaries for their children, but also provide love and support to help them develop their self-motivation. This type of parenting can lead to children who are rockstar, confident, and successful in all areas of their lives.

The fourth quadrant is authoritarian parenting with low self-motivation in kids. This type of parenting is characterized by a focus on discipline and control, with little emphasis on love and support. Parents who adopt this style may be more focused on obedience and conformity than on helping their child develop their own sense of self. This type of parenting can lead to children who are hustler, obedient, but may struggle with self-motivation and self-esteem.

Parenting and Self Motivation in Kids

In conclusion, it is important to understand that parenting is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every child is unique and will respond differently to different parenting styles. However, by understanding the relationship between discipline and self-motivation in kids, parents can make more informed decisions about how to raise their children and help them develop into happy, healthy, and successful adults.

#parenting #discipline #selfmotivation #kidsdevelopment #authoritativeparenting #permissiveparenting #rockstarkids #hustlerkids

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Why Robots can still replace Doctors at scale – Part 2

I had some interesting feedback for my article how 350,000 Robots can solve India’s health crisis. The doubts were on how IBM Watson failed, how India is complicated, and how robots cannot match India’s culture, language, beliefs, and many variables.

Here are my thoughts on each of those –

  1. Complexity – If the medical profession is all logic and science-based and diagnosis and solutions are based on mathematical proofs and statistical significance, then robots can be better because they can process and analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately without the limitations of human cognition and emotions. They can also make more objective decisions based on evidence and best practices without the influence of personal biases or preferences.
  2. The Experience of Doctors cannot be replaced – All doctors are not the same. If a ‘fresh from college’ graduate with zero experience in the field can become a GP on a 3-year rural posting can do it, then robots are better because they can be programmed with the necessary knowledge and skills and can perform consistently without getting tired or sick. They can also be updated with the latest research and guidelines, ensuring they consistently provide high-quality care.
  3. Culture and beliefs and biases – Culture and ideas have always existed and will exist. Robots are better because they remove the discrimination of caste, creed, and religion and bring neutrality. They can treat all patients with the same level of respect and compassion, regardless of their background or beliefs.
  4. The doubts from the medical fraternity if tech can replace human contact – Telemedicine was initially scoffed at. Still, it became a norm overnight when COVID struck, and the doctor got their payments online and in advance. This shows that technology can be rapidly adopted in times of crisis and can provide a viable solution to various challenges. Similarly, robots in healthcare could help address shortages of qualified healthcare professionals and provide timely and accessible care to underserved populations.
  5. IBM Watson Failure – Tech advances are growing exponentially, and what happened with Watson many years ago may be irrelevant. Today’s robots are much more advanced and capable. They can be tailored to meet different cultures and communities specific needs and preferences. They can also be integrated with other technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, to enhance their capabilities and performance.
  6. Low Infection Transmission + 24X7 workers; Docs can focus on critical and specialized tasks –. Another argument for using robots in healthcare is that they can reduce the risk of infection transmission, especially during pandemics. They can also reduce the workload on healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus on more complex and critical tasks, potentially leading to better outcomes and satisfaction for patients and providers.
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350,000 Robots to solve India’s health crisis

Problem

India is facing a severe shortage of general medical practitioners (GPs), which significantly impacts the country’s healthcare system. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), India has just 1.5 doctors per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the WHO’s recommended minimum of 2.5 doctors per 1,000 people. This shortage is particularly acute in rural areas, where access to healthcare is often limited due to the lack of trained medical professionals.

Solution

#Robots #AI #ML #ott. 350,000 Robots to solve India’s health crisis. Here I list are 6 reasons why using robots as GPs could be cost-effective and the right approach to solve India’s healthcare crisis.

  1. First, robots can work 24/7 without needing breaks or time off, which means they could potentially provide round-the-clock care to patients.
  2. Second, robots do not need to be paid a salary or benefits, which could help to reduce the overall cost of healthcare.
  3. Third, robots can be programmed to accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, which could help reduce misdiagnoses and incorrect Treatments. And OTT updates can give them a definite citing edge in knowing the newest practices and incorporating them into medicines.
  4. Fourth, robots can be programmed to follow protocols and guidelines, which could help to improve the quality of care provided to patients. Imagine in times like pandemics, where systemic protocols can be updated on OTT. Yet, we did not need doctor fatigue.
  5. Fifth, robots can be deployed to areas where there is a shortage of medical professionals, which could help to improve access to healthcare in these areas.
  6. Finally, robots can be programmed to communicate in multiple languages, which could be useful in a country like India where there are many Different languages are spoken.


#india #work #data #people #healthcare #health #help #quality #like #medical 

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What unites us is what divides us.

What unites us is what divides us. Language, religion, race, creed – the more communities want to come together based on these factors, they divide the community from the rest. – Rajesh Soundararajan

Human beings are inherently social creatures. From the earliest days of our existence, we have sought out and formed communities with others who share similar beliefs, values, and experiences. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, support, and identity that is essential to our well-being and happiness.

However, as much as these communities can bring us together, they can also divide us. While language, religion, race, and creed are often used to unite people within a community, they can also serve as barriers that separate us from those who are different.

For example, consider how language can unite and divide us. On the one hand, it allows us to communicate with and understand one another, fostering a sense of community and connection. On the other hand, it can be a source of conflict and division when people speak different languages and cannot understand one another. Similarly, religion can bring people together through shared beliefs and practices, but it can also be used to justify violence and discrimination against those of different faiths.

Race and ethnicity can also both unite and divide us. While people of the same race or ethnicity may feel a strong sense of solidarity and connection with one another, this can also lead to exclusion and prejudice against those who are perceived as different.

Ultimately, what unites us is what divides us because these markers of identity can be both sources of connection and sources of conflict. To indeed come together as a community, we must recognize and celebrate our differences while also working towards understanding and acceptance. This requires open-mindedness, empathy, and a willingness to listen to and learn from one another. Only by embracing our diversity can we hope to come together as one human community truly.

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Your phone book is a good representative barometer of your inclusive nature.

Your phone book is a good representative barometer of your inclusive nature. – Rajesh Soundararajan

Checking the demographics of our phone contacts can be a good way to gauge how inclusive and representative we are as individuals. It is likely that the majority of our contacts will come from similar social, religious, and caste backgrounds as ourselves, reflecting the tendency for people to form relationships and connections with those who are similar to them.

However, it is important to recognize that this tendency is not necessarily a conscious choice, and can be influenced by various factors such as where we live, work, and socialize. It is also important to recognize that diversity and inclusivity are about more than just demographics, and that it is important to strive for representation and inclusion in all aspects of our lives, including in our relationships and connections.

To truly assess our inclusivity and representation, it is important to actively seek out and cultivate relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, and to actively work to create inclusive environments in our personal and professional lives. This can involve making a conscious effort to seek out and connect with people from different backgrounds, as well as being open and receptive to learning about and valuing the perspectives and experiences of others.

Overall, checking the demographics of our phone contacts can be a useful starting point for examining our own inclusivity and representation, but it is important to recognize that this is just one aspect of creating a more inclusive and representative society. By actively seeking out and valuing diversity in all aspects of our lives, we can work towards building a more equitable and just world for all

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How to convert a customer crisis into an opportunity like a Pro?

Here are a few tips for turning a customer crisis into an opportunity:

Listen to the customer’s concerns and show empathy for their situation. Let them know that you understand how they feel and that you are there to help.
Take ownership of the problem and offer a solution. Don’t pass the blame or make excuses. Instead, focus on finding a solution that will satisfy the customer and resolve the crisis.
Be transparent and honest. Don’t try to hide anything or downplay the situation. Instead, be upfront and transparent about what happened and what steps you are taking to fix it.
Offer compensation, if appropriate. Depending on the situation, it may be appropriate to offer some form of compensation to the customer, such as a discount or free product or service.
Follow up with the customer to make sure that the issue has been resolved to their satisfaction. This will show that you are committed to providing excellent customer service and will help to rebuild trust with the customer.
Overall, the key to turning a customer crisis into an opportunity is to listen to the customer, take ownership of the problem, and offer a solution that resolves the issue and satisfies the customer. By doing so, you can turn a negative situation into a positive one and potentially even strengthen your relationship with the customer.