Master The Art Of Multitasking-Mom With These 8 Tips

Posted: November 26, 2023

Do you want to master the art of multitasking easily? Here are 8 simple strategies I use to optimize my time that might benefit you too.

Sticky notes strategy

I begin by jotting down tasks on sticky notes and placing them in specific areas around the house, like a grocery list on the fridge. This approach helps track items that need restocking without making separate trips and saves both time and money.

Benefits:

Condensing shopping trips saves on shipping costs and avoids queues. Limiting shopping to weekly or monthly visits curbs unnecessary spending and time wasted.

Additional Tips:

Shop during less crowded times to evade rush hours. Purchase seasonal items off-season for better deals and rates.

Read more: ‘How To Become Your Own Assistant’ & 5 Other Simple Tips To Make Life Easier!

Calendar-based diary

Using a diary to schedule events, from dental appointments to personal time, aids in managing and planning daily activities. This method creates patterns in behaviour, optimizing errands like shopping along the way.

Benefits:

Identifies behavioural patterns, optimizing time and errands. Streamlines activities, saving time for personal pursuits.

Pro Tip:

Track hours to maximize efficiency. For instance, use salon time to catch up on other tasks simultaneously.

Read more: 8 Benefits Of Daily Journaling

Daily/weekly/monthly planner

Planners aren’t just about scheduling; they prompt action and deter procrastination by listing tasks. This active listing encourages productivity.

Analog watch over digital

Opting for an analog watch diminishes distractions caused by smartphones. Analog watches help visualize time as segments, aiding task completion.

Benefits:

Analog watches enable a visual representation of time, increasing task efficiency. Reduces time wasted due to phone distractions.

Read more: Time-saving Apps To Increase Productivity

Song playlists

Creating task-specific playlists assists in time optimization. Matching tasks to song lengths aids in task completion by the end of each track.

Benefits:

Choreography of tasks with song lengths ensures efficient task completion. Enhances the enjoyment of routine tasks.

Read more: Pump Up the Beat: How Working Out with Music Can Help You Get Better Results

Self-rewards system

Implementing a reward system for task completion motivates and uplifts productivity.

Ideas for rewards:

Rewards can range from small treats like coffee or a book to quality time or activities.

Read more: 10 Simple Ways To Relieve Stress

Competition with a partner

Creating a friendly competition with a partner spurs productivity and enhances teamwork.

Benefits:

Tasks are efficiently completed, maintaining a well-maintained home. Enhances engagement and productivity within the household.

Read more: Being Healthy – A State Of Mind

Two-week challenge

Setting short-term goals for two-week periods helps in achieving incremental targets effectively.

Benefits:

Breaking down goals into short periods makes them manageable and habit-forming. Aids in focusing on specific improvements without overwhelming oneself.

Read more: 50 Things I Wish I’d Truly Understood (As A Woman) On Starting My Career

These strategies are adaptable and customizable to individual needs. Efficient time management allows for the pursuit of hobbies, family time, and prioritizing health.


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The White Ribbons Stained Red

Posted: November 25, 2023

On November’s 25th, a day so bold,
Dedicated to tales that must be told.
To end violence against women, we stand,
In a world where justice must take command.

The White Ribbon Campaign, a noble quest,
Born from sorrow, a tragic bequest.
Lepine’s darkness, a chilling decree,
Led to the birth of a ribbon so free.

In Canada’s land, where shadows cast,
Random women fell, a memory vast.
Now, on this day, the White Ribbon we wear,
A symbol of hope, a plea in the air.

I ponder, though, on this ribbon so white,
How many turn red in the silent night?
Stained by the blood of women, so brave,
Young and old, and the innocent they save.

Children, too, caught in the cruel tide,
Their stories unheard, their tears denied.
On this day of White Ribbon, let’s vow,
To break the silence, to change the now.

For every stained ribbon tells a tale,
Of resilience, strength, and a will to prevail.
Let’s stand together, a united force,
To end the violence, chart a new course.

Image source: Photo by Saif71.com on Unsplash

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An Ode To Hopeful Brave Hearts

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I move amidst the spread of tulips

with my heart clenched in my fist,

a bit hesitant, a bit hopeful.

While the wind whispers the tales

of chances, of second glances,

I quietly fill a teaspoon with trust.

Sun blushes with scarlet cheeks

and skies are smeared with orange smiles.

My spirits are warm now

and my nerves calm.

A stream of faith flows through me.

I take small steps of courage,

few towards me,

few away from black holes and violet scars.

The finish line is visible,

in its slight glamour.

I feel an inch closer.

I feel an ounce stronger.

My fingers tremble less

as I secretly write, a new goal today.

I am sure to find my bit of faith

in whistling bees and shining starlets,

and in their humble intentions.

I feel a bit less hesitant,

And a bit more hopeful now.


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Dear Ladies, Do Not Go On A Guilt Trip In Your Rest Time!

“What’s for breakfast, Ma? I am hungry!” said 8.5-year-old Rishaan. It was Sunday morning, just when Riya thought she would wake at her convenience, but could not afford to linger more in bed, she had to get up and make breakfast!

The next day, her younger sister, Jia, came to visit her. She is pursuing a master’s in Mass Communication from the same city; however, she chose to stay at the hostel. She knew Riya’s joint family would not like it. “It’s just 4 pm Di, why are you so worried about dinner NOW?” asked Jia out of concern.

Riya smiled and replied, “I am just checking if all the ingredients I need to cook dinner are at home. Else, I will have to go to the market and buy.”

“Oh Didi, there are apps that deliver groceries in minutes. And I have come after so long, please come and spend some time with me na!” asked Jia.

Riya sighs, “I know, and I am sorry I am not able to spend time with you.”

“It’s not about the sorry Di. Please breathe and relax. Look at yourself, you look so exhausted. What happened? All okay na?” asked the younger one.

“Yes, yes! Everything is fine,” Riya pauses mid-sentence and says, “Wait, let me just message Prashant. I have to remind him to pick up your favourite cheesecake on his way back home.”

Jia loses her cool and says, “Didi, there is still time for that. And it’s okay if Jiju forgets. Why so much stress? I want to talk to you. Please sit. I got an internship at a top advertising agency in Bangalore. So exciting!” said Jia.

“So you will not be here in Chandigarh any more?” Riya asked in a low tone, “I was used to you being around!”

“Aren’t you happy for me, Didi?” asked Jia, “I thought you would be very happy to hear this.”

“I am. Don’t take me wrong. I am. Congratulations!” Riya collected all her emotions and reacted.

“One minute Didi. Please tell me what happened. I know there is something. Tell me?”

Riya looks at Jia, takes her hand in hand, and says, “I don’t know Jia. I am always tired, nervous, anxious. I do not feel any energy or excitement at all. You remember I used to do so much, right?” Riya confessed.

“I have never seen you this worried before. Why do you feel like you are responsible for everything? Just learn to rest and be in the moment, Di. We just picked up our lunch dishes, and you started worrying about dinner? Take time off, it is necessary. You being worried is not the solution to any problem in this world!” said Jia patting her hand.

“Rest. There you said it. I do not get enough rest. Maybe that’s why I am always tired. Right…” exclaimed Riya.

“The point is, Di, you keep worrying when you get time to rest. Rest means, doing nothing, not even thinking. Even if you do not do anything and sit in one place, in your head you are worried, you will never be able to get the desired rest. You are thinking a lot these days, I can see that. Is there anything else that is bothering you?” asked Jia.

“Oh yes. You are right. In my free time also, I keep thinking about what next to do, what chore is pending, and all of that. Thank you, Jia, I will try to. And there is nothing else that is bothering me!” responded Riya.

“Di, I know, and I understand, you are responsible for everything in the house. But you have to take care of yourself also, right? Rest is a basic human requirement. Please don’t feel guilty about it!” explained Jia.

Riya hugged Jia, “I did not realize when my younger sister grew up to be so mature!”


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Embracing the Day: A Morning Routine to Fuel Your Life

Posted: November 24, 2023

I explore the power of morning routines and share a beautifully crafted poem that captures the essence of those precious morning moments. I believe that the way you begin your day can have a profound impact on your overall well-being, So, grab your coffee or tea, find a cozy spot, and join me on a journey into the heart of morning rituals. Together, we’ll uncover the beauty and potential hidden in those first moments of the day.

As the sun peeks over the horizon’s edge,

I wake from my slumber, stretch out of bed.

A brand new day, a fresh start awaits,

And so begins my morning routine, my daily dates.

I shuffle to the kitchen, half-asleep,

To brew a pot of coffee, my soul to keep.

The aroma fills the air, a comforting embrace,

As I sip the dark elixir, it’s a morning grace.

Next comes the shower, where I wake up my senses,

With warm water cascading, breaking down defenses.

I scrub away sleep, and with each cleansing stream,

I’m reborn, ready to chase my day’s dream.

Dressed and energized, I’m ready to face,

The world beyond my doorstep, at a steady pace.

But first, a moment of reflection, calm and serene,

I meditate and set intentions for the day to glean.

Breakfast on the table, a hearty meal,

To fuel my body and give me zeal.

As I eat, I read, and my mind takes flight,

In the quiet of the morning, everything feels right.

With my routine complete, I step outside,

Into the world, where my day will glide.

Morning rituals, a comforting theme,

As I embrace the day with a hopeful gleam.

 

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Unveiling My Sabbatical Symphony: Embracing Change, Family, Personal Wellness, and the Wanderlust Chronicles

In the whirlwind of my banking career, the love for my job started overshadowing my personal life. A transfer away from home added layers to the complexity – a young child, aging in-laws, and a husband building his business. Seeking balance and a renewed sense of purpose, I embarked on a profound sabbatical journey. This tale unfolds the chapters of change, family bonds, wellness, and wanderlust—a transformative experience that has reshaped the very fabric of my life

Weekends became a frenzied attempt to be with my child, but the toll on my health was evident – high blood pressure, stress, and anxiety. The guilt of missing crucial moments with my little one became a heavy burden.

A turning point arrived when I realized I was losing not just my well-being but also precious moments of motherhood. Contemplating a sabbatical, I faced the stark truth – it was unpaid, and a significant housing loan loomed. In this challenging moment, my husband’s support became my rock.

Together, we bravely delved into our finances, acknowledging the risks. It was a daunting decision, but one we made consciously to restore balance between my career and family. The path ahead was uncertain, but with our partnership, I opted for a renewed focus on health, family, and a more sustainable life equilibrium. This is the journey of my Sabbatical which I took from my loving job .

Digital Marketing, Family, and Rediscovery: My Sabbatical Tale

With a yearning to be more present for my family and explore uncharted territories, I took a leap of faith and embraced this temporary break. The first step was coming closer to home, physically and metaphorically, opening the door to new career possibilities.

In the realm of digital marketing, I found a balance that eluded me in the corporate hustle. Enrolling in a course with UpGrad, I not only added strings to my professional bow but discovered a world where growth could coexist harmoniously with family commitments. Now I am the proud certificate holder of Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communications with specialization in Marketing Analytics from MICA School Of Thoughts

Beyond the digital landscape, I found solace in the company of books. The simple pleasure of flipping through pages became a daily retreat, a moment of quiet joy amidst the chaos of change. Mornings with a cup of hot tea and evenings immersed in the wisdom of authors became rituals, guiding me through the intricate dance of life.

And speaking of life’s dance, my sabbatical also became a journey toward improved health. No gym memberships or strict regimens – just a genuine embrace of regular exercise and yoga. From joyous morning stretches to grounding yoga sessions, these were not just routines; they were acts of self-love, reminders that amidst change, my well-being remains a priority.

Finding Joy in the Ordinary: A Sabbatical Tale of Family, Wellness, and Wanderlust

Focusing on my health and cherishing moments with my toddler brought unforeseen joy and clarity. From laughter-filled park outings to cozy bedtime stories, these seemingly ordinary moments became the heartbeat of my sabbatical.

child love

As I navigated this uncharted territory, supporting my spouse in his business endeavors, I discovered the beauty of collaboration within the family unit. It wasn’t just about adapting to change; it was about weaving a tapestry of shared dreams and flexible roles.

Navigating Change with Family: A Sabbatical Journey and Wanderlust Chronicles

But let’s not forget the enchanting chapters of my travels. Across the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand, I found solace in the majestic Garhwal and Kumaon regions. The mountains whispered tales of resilience, and the valleys offered moments of reflection.

Venturing into the vibrant tapestry of Rajasthan, I immersed myself in the rich cultural heritage. The bustling markets, the grandeur of historical palaces, and the warmth of the people created a kaleidoscope of experiences that added depth to my sabbatical narrative.

In the upcoming chapters of my blog, I’ll be sharing more of this multifaceted journey – the highs, the lows, the travel escapades, and the beautiful revelations that unfolded along the way. Here’s to embracing change, nurturing family bonds, finding joy in the ordinary, making well-being a daily celebration, and savoring the wanderlust that colors our lives.

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It Is High Time We Took The Onus Of Questioning These Stereotypes

Do you remember playing that candy and color box game, when you were a kid?

You had to put the color candy into the respective color box?

That is not just the game for us, that is the basic setup that shapes our mental wiring.

That is what stereotypes are – putting the people or things into the boxes. We think in terms of categories we create from our experiences. These experiences are the consequences of our culture, values, religious, economic, and social environment. Those categories clarify the world for us but sometimes over-simplify it. At some point, those natural over-simplifications cross the line into stereotypes. We can’t think without using our categories, and in the long term, these categories hinder our capabilities to make sense of things.

You know, those ideas people have about others based on things like where they’re from, their religion, or how they look. Now, think about a time someone assumed something about you just because of where you come from or how you dress. It doesn’t feel great, right? Aren’t we all different?

Is it fair? No. Is it intentional? Maybe, not.

Just yesterday, I saw a movie named “The Great Indian Dysfunctional Family”, where a guy aged around 25, belonging to a religious Hindu family, comes to know that he is a Muslim. His, and his family’s reactions creates turmoil in their lives, even though they have been living together happily under a roof for the last 25 years. That’s what presumptions and stereotypes do, they don’t let you think outside the box, and they don’t let you accept the difference.

And in a diverse country like India, stereotypes are everywhere, acting as an invisible barrier based on your background and gender. These stereotypes limit what we think, what we can do, and also let others do. And these stereotypes spread from society, enter stealthily into our minds and conscience, and become a part of our upbringing so much that we cannot even realize being unfair or even being wronged.

I was just going through a video shared by a lawyer explaining the reasons why couples separate, even after sharing profound love and respect. In her opinion there were many but one reason that made me ponder on a very fragile issue was that people don’t want to stay together because of the way they have been conditioned. Even today, the males are not taught basic survival roles, justifying the patriarchal approach. Now this is not the fault of our boys, but we have to change the way we bring up our children.

What is done cannot be undone, but can be bent so that we can focus on more important issues. The thing that causes emotional detachment is when one person gets tired of telling the other person what to do.

Change, as we know, is inevitable. Generations now are challenging these established norms. One key factor contributing to this change is education. As more people gain access to education, awareness about the need for equality and the detrimental effects of gender stereotypes is spreading. We are witnessing a generation that questions these roles and seeks a more inclusive society. Remember the movie Ki and Ka. In the end, Kareena gets jealous of Arjun when he starts getting equal attention when he chooses to handle the house whilst she is the breadwinner.

Now you know it’s the way we have been conditioned. We are humans at last, learning and evolving is the only trait that would keep us going well. Even Ariel has adopted the marketing strategy “Share the load” Let’s challenge stereotypes, both in our thoughts and in our conversations. Let’s be curious about each other’s stories and learn from them. In doing so, we would make the world a better place to be!!

Thank you!


Image Source: A still from the film ‘The Great Indian Dysfunctional Family’

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9 Reasons Why Choosing A Partner Through Matrimony Sites Could Be A Smart Choice

Choosing the perfect life partner is a significant decision that has far-reaching consequences for one’s future happiness and well-being. In today’s digital age, the advent of matrimonial websites has transformed the way individuals search for their life partners, offering a smart and effective avenue for finding the right match. Here’s why choosing the perfect life partner through a matrimony site is a smart choice, highlighting the many advantages and benefits that this modern approach provides.

Extensive and diverse databases

Matrimony sites boast extensive databases of potential matches. These platforms host a diverse pool of profiles, allowing individuals to explore a wide range of options. Whether you’re looking for someone of a specific caste, religion, or background, or if you have more generalized preferences, these websites provide an abundance of choices, making it more likely to find the perfect life partner who matches your criteria.

Customized search filters

Matrimony websites come equipped with sophisticated search filters that allow users to tailor their search to their exact preferences. From education and occupation to location and lifestyle choices, these filters make it easier to find matches that align with your criteria. This customization streamlines the search process and saves time, increasing the likelihood of discovering a compatible partner.

Privacy and security

Privacy and security are paramount when it comes to choosing a life partner. Matrimony sites prioritize the confidentiality and safety of user information. Robust security measures are in place to safeguard personal data, ensuring a secure environment for individuals to connect and interact without concerns about their privacy being compromised.

Serious intentions

One of the most compelling reasons for choosing a matrimony site is the shared intent of its users. Individuals on these platforms are primarily seeking a committed and long-term relationship. This means you’re more likely to find partners who are genuinely interested in settling down and building a life together, reducing the risk of encountering people with different intentions, as can be the case on casual dating platforms.

Compatibility algorithms

Many matrimony sites employ advanced compatibility algorithms that use detailed user profiles to suggest potential matches. These algorithms consider factors like personality, interests, values, and background, offering well-matched profiles that align with your preferences and compatibility. This technology-driven approach significantly improves the chances of finding a life partner who compliments your personality and lifestyle.

Communication tools

Matrimony sites provide a range of communication tools, including messaging and video calls, to facilitate meaningful interactions between potential partners. This enables individuals to get to know each other better, engage in conversations, and build a connection, even before meeting in person. Effective communication is a key factor in the process of choosing a life partner, and these tools enhance the quality of these interactions.

Time and effort savings

Traditional methods of finding a life partner can be time-consuming and require substantial effort. Matrimony sites offer a more efficient and streamlined approach, allowing individuals to explore potential matches from the comfort of their homes. This convenience saves time and effort that can be better invested in building a strong connection with a prospective partner.

Crossing geographical boundaries

Matrimony websites transcend geographical boundaries, which is particularly advantageous for individuals seeking partners from different regions, countries, or cultural backgrounds. This broadens the pool of potential matches and offers a chance to connect with people who might not be accessible through traditional means.

Success stories

Matrimony websites are replete with success stories of couples who found their perfect life partners through these platforms. Reading these stories can inspire hope and confidence in the process, reinforcing the belief that choosing a life partner through a matrimony site is indeed a smart and effective choice.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect life partner through a matrimony site is a smart choice for a multitude of reasons. The convenience, security, extensive database, customization options, and compatibility algorithms offered by these platforms significantly enhance the likelihood of finding a well-suited and committed life partner. Whether you’re looking for a partner within your community or seeking someone from a different background, matrimony sites provide a modern, efficient, and effective approach to finding the love of your life.

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No Girl In Our Family Has Ever Travelled Alone, How Will You Do It?!

Posted:

Standing in the crowded line alone Mita felt nervous and jittery.

Her heart was racing like a hummingbird’s wings and her mind felt like a tangled bulk of yarn. She recalled one by one all the documents that her husband apprised her about that she might need at the time of checking in. Holding her handbag in one hand and her travel documents in another she pushed the baggage cart a bit when the line moved ahead.

“Ma’am, show your passport and E-ticket,” the lady on the counter asked. After a few initial anxious moments she regained her calm and composure and pulled out her passport and paper ticket from the folder that contained all her travel documents safe and intact and placed them on the desk.

The lady checked everything and handed Mita her boarding pass. “How many check-in bags do you have?”

“Two,” Mita replied and put them on the baggage belt.

“Do I have to collect my baggage at Delhi airport and check them in again as I have to travel from Delhi to New York further?” Mita inquired.

“No ma’am since you have a connecting flight, you need not do that. Once you check in your baggage here you are expected to collect them at the destination airport.”

“Thanks,” Mita said smilingly. She felt a bit relieved as if she felt she moved one step closer to her goal.

The frown lines reduced on her forehead.

She meticulously kept her boarding pass inside the folder securely and marched toward the security checkpoint.

This was her first international travel. Though she had travelled alone on domestic flights earlier, crossing the border alone? She had never thought she would ever be able to do it.

Though her husband had walked her through every step of travel and provided all the documents and information along with the checklist, travelling alone seemed more of an improbable and daunting task to her.

After going through a security check, a line of worry appeared on her forehead again. Did she miss the immigration check in this hullabaloo of the moment? It was a mandatory procedure for any international travel. But as she moved a few steps further she saw the arrow sign of immigration check. The line automatically proceeded in that direction after the security check was done. So there was no chance of missing it! She thanked God holding her hand over her chest.

Her feet were cold thinking about how long and difficult the immigration process would be but it went smoothly. All she had to do was present her legal documents to show her eligibility to travel to another country and answer some related questions correctly and precisely. After immigration was done she strode towards the gate. She seated and made herself comfortable in one of the chairs in the waiting area.

She was so occupied with the process and procedures of checking in that she didn’t get time to check her phone. Not to mention there were a lot of missed calls from all her well-wishers. Now that her mind felt calm and composed and she was out of all the hustle and bustle she felt a pang of sadness. She was surrounded by a huge crowd but felt alone at her heart. The separation from the family was indeed difficult and painful.

While sitting she remembered how some of her close relatives were dubious about her travelling alone. No girl has ever travelled in our family alone, how will she manage everything on her own? What if she gets lost in the hubbub and the massive airport and cannot make it to the flight on time? What if her flight gets delayed and she misses her connecting flight?

They had only questions and queries to create commotion and confusion to discourage her from travelling alone. Why doesn’t she wait until her husband comes here and takes her? Why does she want to go in the first place, it’s a matter of a couple of years he will soon come back. We used to stay away from our husband for years back then. You can’t stay even for a year or two.

Though all this ongoing conversation irritated her, they didn’t realize the more they talked the more she was resolute and determined to go alone. She wanted to accompany her husband, and also to catch sight of the outside world and explore ‘The Big Apple’. Since childhood, she had been fascinated by high-rise buildings and skyscrapers and wanted to see how it felt to be on top of one of these buildings.

Additionally, this would also give her a chance to understand and appreciate the different cultures and people of the world.

And thus planning and preparation for solo travel began. Her husband did his part and helped her get tickets and other documents.

She did her research and planning. A checklist was put together and she prepped accordingly. She wore the cape of confidence and self-belief and embarked on the journey. This was not just a journey but also a chance to prove that she might be alone but not weak, she might be inexperienced and naive but not incapable of travelling alone.

She was feeling nervous like a deer caught in the headlights when she departed from home, but now as confident as a bird committing itself to the air upon landing. Had she not travelled alone she would not have realized her potential and capability. Yes, I did it, she muttered to herself when the plane touched down the foreign land. A scintillating smile appeared on her face as she felt triumphant and jubilant in her heart.

Image source: a still from the film English Vinglish

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Where Had I Gone, The Woman I Was Before Marriage And Motherhood?

Posted: November 23, 2023

‘Motherhood devastated me. So did marriage.’

I was shocked to hear this from my friend’s mouth. She had always been a family person catering all to raising her family.

‘Don’t make the mistake I made’, she said to me.

‘But how?’ I asked.

**

I still remember when I was planning my child I was such a carefree young woman. Fuelled with ambition and with an urge to change the world with my skills and life’s work. When I look back at that vivacious me full of energy and innocence my heart breaks into a million pieces.

Sometimes when I look at the mirror I wonder where has that woman gone? Where have I gone?

Love consumed me. From the first day that I laid eyes on my child I fell in love with her. She was a part of me and I considered her so, unaware that she is actually a different person. Not my baby.

Being a baby was just a phase.

I invested all my energies into my husband and child

Marriage on the other hand had already lost its sheen after the honeymoon period got over. Gradually it just becomes a routine of sharing responsibilities. And if you are in a relationship where there is no emotional support from your partner, and where your husband prefers that you have no friends either, for reasons of jealousy, masked under the veil of wanting to be the only one in your life, your personal life drifts apart. My husband never wanted me to have a personal life.

He never socialised with the friends that I had. But I did. I accommodated his friends, their family.

Gradually I was left out being very lonely. I had no one except my husband to go out with. And when things sometimes got sour between us as it does in all marriages, I was left with no one. So I focused all my love and energy on my child. I gave every ounce of love that I had in me, every ounce of love that I needed to fill my life I invested on her. Her love kept me sane at times when I felt no connection to my husband.

But then one day, my child moved on to live her own life

But then that day came when my child starting having her own life. I was left with no one. And just because I had no life of my own except the one invested to my children and husband when they moved on, I was left with nothing.

Children express no love like they used to when they were young. So the stream of love that flowed from my daughter to me also stopped. Gradually things became so unbearable that I wondered why I ever chose this life?

Where have I gone? That woman who was so full of life had been reduced to just pieces of routine, tasks and to do lists. No one asked what I wanted because I was always the giver.

I was a very emotional and sensitive person and going through this made me lose my mind. I met psychologists, I met doctors, I spoke to whoever would listen, and after speaking my heart out to all I realised no one can help me. Except myself.

I did not know where to start. But I looked back at that beautiful woman full of innocence and grand plans for the future, still waiting at that moment where I had left her, before I conceived my child. I looked back at her at my past and offered her to come to the present.

I needed to get her back one step at a time

One thing at a time. One step at a time, my past and present self took until we reached a point where she merged into me. I gradually started feeling sane.

All the things that I did not do for myself. Like maybe bringing a plant home. Working on my career. Doing the things that I love. Prioritising myself like I always did before I decided that loving someone means giving myself up. The thing is you cannot pour from an empty cup. But most importantly, you cannot survive if you do not listen to your soul.

Your soul is the only reason why you are here. There should be no reason why you should give up on your soul.

Do the things that make you come alive. Never never never lose touch with your soul. How do you know it’s what your soul wants?

Well, anything that makes you feel alive is what is connected to your soul. Never stop doing that.

For you Priyanka it’s your writing. For me well it’s always been architecture.

You know what? I learnt it the very hard way. Love has no meaning unless you are involved in it.

What matters is just you. When you are okay everything else in life just falls into place. Automatically without any effort.

**

Life lesson anyone?

Image source: YouTube/ Pocket Films

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