Rising Entrepreneurship

It’s the Entrepreneurs and not the Politicians  who will change the face of Our Country -India

In the past years, there is a drastic change in the development of India. India is changing and developing in all the sectors at a very fast pace and this all resulted due to the policy of liberalization which made it easy and comfortable for the country and people to learn and have best of things. One of the major changes is the entrepreneurship. Now a day’s people prefer to own their own enterprises as the growth in this is fast and it is easier to start the same now. With the interference and exposure in foreign market the opportunities are actually increased. There is very much emphasis given even in schools and colleges to make students understand what entrepreneurship is and how is the same helpful. On the basis of education which is given to the students, they are actually able to enter in this field and attain new heights, in the past years many new comers entered this market and shown growth in this. In the past years we have seen that a huge number of Indians are able to make their place in the international markets like Narayan Murti, Azim Premji, and Ambani just due to their dedication and unique concepts. Even people are entering in the social fields as well for the welfare of the society many NGO like Teach for India. Jafri,Tata Jagriti Yatra are their which are very successful. To start enterprise funds are required many loans are there with which one can start an enterprise. The govt is supporting the new entrepreneurs and providing them with the best deals. These fresh entrepreneurs are helping India a lot in becoming a more successful and developed country and in the coming future they will also help the country in becoming supreme power as less depended on imports .

Entrepreneurship in India : A Historical perspective

Former society of India did witness the rigid caste system where four different castes were divided into community of priests, warriors, merchants & people who are indulged in menial jobs. The existence of merchant community since ages substantiates the existence of entrepreneurship but there has been a paradigm shift in the way entrepreneurship is defined. Entrepreneurship in India is not confined to conventional boundaries anymore and people who belong to other caste besides merchant community too are exploring new avenues in entrepreneurship. The advent of new means of advanced communication likes Internet and cutting-edge technologies have paved the way for the growth of entrepreneurship in India. The growing trend of Outsourcing has really opened up new business avenues for Indian budding entrepreneurs.

On a broader platform, an entrepreneurship can be classified into three different categories. First category comprises of people who hail from well established big corporate houses like Ambanis, Mittals, Tatas, Birlas, etc. The responsibility of managing the business is passed from one generation to another and these business houses have not only proved their capabilities at domestic front but they have also proved their mettle in the International market as well.

The next category comprises of those budding entrepreneurs who have recently graduated from management institutions and are full of ‘can do’ attitude and those who don’t shy away from taking business risks. The last category is comprised of product based trade entrepreneurs who are spread across cities, big / small towns & villages of India. It is an experience instead of knowledge which forms a basis for their entrepreneurship ability.

When we talk about entrepreneurship in Indian Scenario then unfortunately despite of talent and abundant manpower, India is way far behind than developed countries where entrepreneurship is not only encouraged but also gets nurtured by proper means and resources.

Though Indian Government took some effective steps in the form of liberalization and privatization during 90’s but still for Indian Government there is a long way to go in order to promote entrepreneurship in India.

 Growing Avenues – Opportunities for budding entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is not everyone’s cup of tea. A person with strong will and wit is able to handle the gigantic task. There are many entrepreneurs who have touched the zenith and others who couldn’t make it. Apart from individual expertise there are many factors which are required to excel as an entrepreneur for example the right opportunity and field. There are many sectors which can be chosen as the business fields but there should be proper understanding of the same.

India is a country which over the years has come out as the land of opportunities; there are many options when it comes to starting a business in India.

1. Textile Industry: this industry has flourished since time immemorial. India is known for various state trademark clothes and garments like Kota doriya, Bandhani, etc. and one can easily set a manufacturing unit without much efforts.

2. Handicrafts: India is also known for its handicrafts which are peculiar to cities like Jodhpur, Bikaner. These cities are known for artistic wooden artifacts and lot of export is done from these cities. This business can readily fetch a lot of profit.

3. Tourism: this industry has grown with a rapid pace. The number of tourists who visit India have increased significantly.

4. Automobile: Many MNC’s believe that India is the biggest consumer market for their ventures and are opening their manufacturing units; in this sense automobile sector is also a good business option.

5. Ayurvedic Remedies: India is known for its Ayurvedic remedies also. Ayurveda has remedies for almost all illness and provides relief without any side effects.

6. Education Sector: Education is the need of the hour and this sector has transformed significantly. This sector is turning out to be the most profitable one.

These are certain major fronts which can be thought of while starting a business there are many more like: Recycling industry, packaging Industry, Food processing Industry, Biotechnology, Horticulture and many more. If one has strong will to start a business there are many options to choose from.

Whatever be the way, whatever be the field, a young entrepreneur is willing to take challenges and it is what India needs at this time. Galloping instead of treading is what India needs and it is what the budding entrepreneurs can provide it to India. An economic change is what brings change to the society at large and the country in the long run. The already established business leaders have brought India to a decent stature and now it is time for entrepreneurs to take it further.

Leaders Creating Business and Social Value

A society is a collective term that denotes group of people who follow certain set of rules and have a formal conduct. Leaders are an integral part of society and are essential for smooth functioning of the same. Leaders play an important part in shaping the society; they set the values and standards for people.

Leadership is a quality that is not present in all and even psychologists believe that a right leader is essential for smooth conduct of a society. Leaders are not required only on social front but on all fronts. Business also requires right leaders as they are instrumental in bringing good fortune for the company. They act as an example for many. Many Indian leaders have set their example for not only their countrymen but others as well. Dhirubhai Ambani, Azeem Premji, Laxmi Mittal are few to be named. They started from a scratch and have made it to the top with their sheer hard work and righteous attitude. A right attitude and firm thinking are essential to create an impact. A good leader should have these so that he can give a right direction to its people. Leader is blindly followed and if he chooses the wrong direction it will result in chaos and mismanagement. History shows that such kinds of leaders have existed and their rule has always resulted in anarchy and has met a tragic fate.

 

Leaders create value and standards not for some time but for ages and generations follow these. There are certain values which should be present in a leader be it business or social: first and foremost is understanding. A leader is efficient if he has an understanding of the needs of his people, leader is not working with a single individual but with many and so he has to device certain methods that are good for all and result in their betterment. Second is patience, a good leader has to be patient with each and every individual he should be present when there is a need. A leader is required on each and every step. The values that a leader holds are also important. Ethics and values vary from person to person still there are certain set of values that are essential building the right attitude in an individual. A leader is different from others because he has right values and follows them. Leaders have the courage to stand for his people and keep the needs of his people above his own needs.

 

Dr.Bindu Rathore

Globalization has resulted in exchange of values and ideas and today’s generation is not just abiding to the old standards rather is constantly creating new ideas and beliefs which are essential for the betterment of common man and society at large. Today’s youth is actively participating in all activities, they are concerned in expanding business, in creating social awareness, health awareness and many more. These leaders are definitely shaping the society in a right way. They are not hesitant and are ready to take the risk, they have the capacity to challenge, an urge to be different, and they have broadened their horizons. It is correctly said that a good leader is instrumental in the development of a society and we can clearly see that some countries have grown economically and socially because of right kind of leadership and some are still underdeveloped because of the lack of a good leader. More leaders with right values and correct mindset are needed to take the society to new heights and standards. These leaders will definitely create difference and establish new standards globally.

I strongly believe, its not the politicians but the leaders  are the hope of nation, they will create the social and business value.

Branding for Startups – Challenges & Opportunities

In the present cutthroat competitive world, brand building helps in fetching the required goodwill that in turn helps thrive well in the competition. Especially when money is invested in brand building during initial stage of commencing a business then it certainly goes a long way. Branding for business has certainly witnessed changes and the change has not only made it better but complex as well. Where it was restricted to a logo or a banner, it encompasses in its ambit a wide range of innovations that the present day warrants.

Right from the pen used in the office to the covering tape on the boxes shipped, branding has become a ‘must’ and is hoped to be found everywhere. However, for the startups it is a big challenge to choose what to do. Also, it is a big question whether they should invest in brand building or nourish their roots or invest in the essential infrastructure and tackle branding later.

Here, a word of advice is – adopt the ‘golden mean’. Keep tab of branding to the extent possible and channelize the resources to infrastructure or to the business processes. In addition to it, brands do not come up in one day and those that try the aggressive way are forgotten most aggressively as they cannot handle the growth in demand for their product or services.

These days branding has lot to with business contrary to earlier when there were seldom any competitors. But now that companies have flooded the market, there is a need to focus on branding right from the moment one dreams of starting his own business. Also it is ‘showbazi’ time today and what people see is what people buy. Being in oblivion and keep innovating and waiting for someone to recognize it is not the trend today. One must also make oneself visible the very moment one sets out on an such an excursion. However, there is a hairline difference between branding and over branding, so keep a tab on things as over branding or over brand promotion also deteriorates the brand value as the saying goes – too much familiarity breeds contempt.

Few important points about Brand buildings for startups:

• If you know how to splurge wisely then you can create a strong brand
• Understanding a differentiation between brand building & marketing
• Marketing takes care of your business needs while Branding takes care of your relation with your valuable consumers
• People often mistake branding as some kind of Marketing only since they both produce similar results of increase in sales & revenue and awareness among customers
• There is a misconception that creating a Brand requires lot of investment

Following are few important tips about Brand Building:

Ensure Quality – Sticking to quality benchmarks even during a tough phase is something that never goes unnoticed so ensure delivering quality oriented products & services to your customers during tough phase.

Provide Best Consumer Support – Lending proper after sales service & support is indeed an apparent step in a direction of creating a strong Brand so let the customers feel that you just do not care for money but you also care about their needs.

Let consumers provide feedback – For a business, consumers or customers are the real teachers. There is no better way than providing a proper platform in a form of social networking websites or a discussion forum within your own website, in order to improve your business doings and to know about consumer’s mind.

Value Feedback – Do not forget to appreciate a feedback because ultimately a feedback is something which serves a purpose to you.

Emphasis on building Internal Brand – Always remember a Golden Rule –‘Happy employees create happy customers’. Right from the pen your employees use to the paper on which they write to the desk planner to the meeting room to the office building and the parking tickets to the etching on the office glass door, all are art of internal branding.

Ensure impeccable website – Get a website, get one with a short URL. Also, the website content should be free from grammatical errors and the design of website should neither appear too loud nor it should appear too plain. Put every information on it besides the product and services. Do not forget to put up pictures and names of the management and employees, as people trust people and not websites.

Highlight your Credentials - Credentials plays a significant role in creating a strong brand thus, highlight outgoing communication, your learning, experiences, accomplishment, etc.

Evaluate your brand rating – Evaluation of your brand ratings on a periodical basis gives you a better understanding regarding a future course of business actions. There exist some online tools like Google alerts, Yahoo pipes, Search through Google Blog etc which gives you inkling about how many people are talking about your brand.

Too much branding or erroneous branding that startups must avoid:

An attractive website design may appeal to people but at the end of the day, what all matters is what exclusive offers you are introducing in the market for wooing customers and how quality oriented your products and services are. Thus, focus on the website and web content but put up products that really mean some worth to the people. A greatly designed website which is also promoted well may have visitors from everywhere but if there aren’t worth products or services on the website, the visitors will remain visitors and will not translate into clients or customers.

Ensure that it is you who holds the reins of your brand and not your customers and that you can do by focusing on delivering quality oriented products and services. After all, there is nothing as strong as ‘Positive word of mouth publicity’ and there is nothing as destructing as ‘Negative word of mouth publicity’.

Understand that there is no substitute of tacky products and services so don’t try to compensate them with aggressive marketing tactics. Especially for startups, delivering quality oriented products and services is extremely important because most of the times, a first impression becomes a last impression.

In nutshell:

When People use your Brand name as a Verb, that is remarkable and the true making of the Brand..keep working on it.

About the Author:
Dr. Bindu Rathore works as a brand specialist to position companies, products and services as strong and effective brands in the collective minds of consumers.

She develops brand strategies with a holistic approach to brand communications so that a company’s brand touch-points (corporate identity, product design, web site, retail environment, online marketing, traditional advertising, PR and word of mouth) all work in harmony to create a favorable perception in the mind of the prospects, increasing the chances of positively affecting purchase behavior.

Her specialty includes how consumers process information from brand touch-points, how they attend to, perceive, process and store that information; and how they retrieve and act on previous information from memory.

Her focus on the mind, perception, cognitive psychology, human nature and brain science to form a deep understanding of how people think and what makes them do, buy and love the things they do.

She also briefs and manages branding consultancies, advertising agencies, product design companies and anyone tasked with producing a brand touch-point for the brand owner. For detailed information you can visit www.BinduRathore.com

Getting dream jobs using the Power of Internet

Getting dream jobs is easy through Internet now

 

20 years back getting a government job was an ultimate dream and Rojgar Patrika was the ultimate destination, but today in the age of globalization it is a sin to remain unenlightened about the widespread impact of cyber culture. In fact, it is the advance of this communication technology, with the rise of computer and internet at its base, has proliferated Globalization by dwindling geographical and temporal perimeters. Internet has especially been instrumental in making the local / regional – international and international – local or regional, by facilitating human interaction and exchange of worldviews, economy and various attributes of culture on a global scale. The thought of finding a dream job in a foreign land is an achievable objective today.

This technology has been pivotal in ushering the current economic boom literally transforming the nature and manner of our working and living. Today, it has become an indispensable service empowering us with incredible capabilities and uses. It has helped us experience the magical comfort of accessing the entire world at the click of a button. And we are blessed to be born in this era.

It has literally brought the world at our doorstep by unlocking the “Pandora Box” of infinite options and choices in every aspect of survival – from the necessities to luxuries. For instance, job hunt was a tedious task before the internet rage. Now, this pursuit has been simplified with the internet providing all the possible latest information regarding careers in all areas so that it becomes easier to select the perfect job for oneself.

What now is an instantaneous work was a weekly process earlier with daily newspapers and employment news being the major resources available. A four to five pages of weekly employment news largely restricted the options for job seekers, thereby widening the discrepancy between the jobs available and the applicants. After zeroing on a particular classified out of the thousands, the applicant had to post his resume, cover letter and other vital documents to the potential recruiter and then speculate with anxiety for several days for reciprocation that too was restricted to a call or written communication. All this dawdling has now been revolutionized into a high – paced, high – tech activity by online services that have transformed this unilateral project of applying to one company at a time into a multidimensional process. By availing this internet library, the candidate can easily ignite his search for dream job by forwarding his resume to multiple hirers simultaneously at the same time and that too, 100 times faster than possible with the traditional method.

In fact, right from structuring a punctilious resume to hitting the jackpot, internet offers help at all levels. A resume is one’s first introduction that opens the channel of communication with one’s future dream employer and a candidate can easily upload, update and refresh a perfect resume from the extensive stock of miscellaneous sites dealing with resumes on internet. Not only this, if it helps you approach various recruiters then it also assists numerous employers to sample an equal variety of resumes with the same speed and at the same time. Most of the companies today do not accept paper resumes; they rather prefer online application or communication through emails. Because an employer receives a large number of applications and to choose the best ones from a gigantic pile of papers, is strenuous there grew a need of better organizing of the process and then things started getting organized the e way and now it is almost cent percent online. It is far easier to organize the online applications than to manually organize the clutter of papers in the office. An online application also informs the recruiter that how techno – savvy an applicant is.

 

Besides making the resume available to a vast clientele, internet also enables a potential employer to acquaint himself with his dream company before nailing his final decision. A candidate can carefully scan the company’s profile on its website and gather further information relevant for interview. Without investing much effort, time & money, he can also undertake a pre-employment or assessment test if stipulated by the company. Such online tests quickly divulge the chances of a candidate and streamline the arrangement of an interview.

Internet today is inundated with websites that also extent free counsel to job seekers. They provide latest information on both conventional career options and new upcoming genres in various sectors of fashion, management, finance, IT, medicine, education etc. They guide the candidate on critical aspects regarding what to choose and how to choose.

Thus, internet with its highly data driven and lightening speed characteristics has truly benefited human society by multiplying its productivity and employment opportunities, thereby disseminating profound economic, commercial, social, intellectual and human benefits. It has made success unbelievably elemental by making the process of frisking a dream job uncomplicated with its spectrum of user-friendly, cost-effective online services. Even the high profile jobs are just a click away.

Where getting jobs online has become easier these days, it has also impacted the migration rate of employees. With new jobs offers flooding the email inboxes of potential candidates as well as existing employees, there is always a chance that one such job offers ends up in a ‘change’. Though change is always for good but frequent changes adversely impacts a candidates profile and the novices do not understand it in the beginning and switch to new job within even 2-3 months and this in some time becomes a negative in their candidature. Though the ‘switch’ has been for better pay as well as better profile but companies are always on the lookout for employees that provide stability and productivity hand in hand. Thus, it is wise to go for the better but ‘when’ is what one must decide.

In addition to this, online job portals have been the greatest resource in alleviating people from the pangs of global economic slowdown. It has on the one hand helped people get their dream job; it has also reinstated those who have been the results of layoffs.

Concisely, internet job search is a tool and tools are meant to be used judiciously keeping all precautions not to let them hurt you.

Tips to get your dream job using internet:

1. Understand yourself, your key strengths and your aim of life. Match them and develop them. Highlight them in your profile and present it online.
2. Build your strong online profile on professional network like Linkedin .
3. Join professional groups and networks related to your area of interest and reach out to the HR and senior people on those communities
4. Express your thoughts and knowledge on your subject. Be very honest and avoid plagiarism, world is too small to copy paste and fool around.
5. Network, Network and Network with likeminded people, people who are at least 10 times above you in career and profession, they will identify you and pull you up the ladder. Trust me , there is dearth of quality manpower, you just have to make yourself visible to the right people at the right time.
6. Share your resume on Job Portals, Search and apply them, address with customized cover letter and if possible try to highlight and match your strengths with the job profile posted online
7. Get job Alerts ,most job boards have features that allow you to sign up to receive e-mail alerts about newly available jobs that match your chosen criteria which you can fix it.

 

The 11 Universal laws you must know to transform your Life

You and heard about law of gravity since childhood and this law applies to everyone, no one can deny complying with the law of gravity, because it affects everything including you which exists on earth. You may believe it or not, but you would definitely fall if you jump from your window. The same thing applies to law of attraction and laws of universe. They exist, they are powerful and they eternal and unforgettable, They act on everything and on you , whether you believe it or not , you accept it or not, it is neutral , indifferent force, which just uses immense power to return what it receives .I have listed below the universal laws and every human if adapts to them can really transform their life and achieve great heights.

1.      The Law of Creation:
Things we thinking about and that occupy our attention become our reality, We create the situations we think about and imagine every day. If you think that you will have success m you will, if you think that you are going to fail , you will, if you thing that you are old, others will treat you as an old man, similarly if you feel young.

 2.      The Law of Control of life:
If you do not control your own life and if you do not create the circumstances necessary to fulfill your wishes, you will be used by others to reach their goals.

3.      The Law of Relaxation:
The material laws demand hard work to get something. With mental laws, the more you relax ,have faith and be confident of success, the better will be the results

4.      The Law of Return:
Your achievements in life are directly proportional to what you produce or what you think.

5.      The Law of Belief:
Everything that you feel strongly about will be your reality. You are not limited by what you believe that you can do, but by what you believe you cannot, your limitations are not based on reality, they are based on your beliefs.

6.      The Law of Consciousness of the Present:
It is evident that you live in the present as opposed to the future or the past, prepare yourself for tomorrow with positive thoughts and attitudes, but what you do now will be important to achieve the life that you yearn for.

7.      The Law of personal Growth:
To be a good professional, businessmen, athlete , artist, etc think and act as if you are already the best, the human being develops from what he thinks and feels

8.      The law of Expectations:
For the universe to convert your desires to reality, you must know beforehand what you want to attain and what you expect from life.

9.      The Law of Clarity:
The clarity if your mind and thoughts is related to the material order of your life.

10.   The Law of Perseverance:
People who achieve success never give up trying and people who do not try do not achieve success.

11.   The Law of Pardon:
To Pardon others is an effective and necessary cleansing to succeed in life, Do not dwell on hate or resentments, This law does not ask you to be pleasing to others or accept situations, only that you forgive them to free the chains that tap your mind.

 

Source* Beyond the Law of Attraction by Brenda Baranby

Blind Law: Justice Delayed is Justice Denied

Blind Law

Justice Delayed is Justice Denied

More than30 Million cases pending in Indian courts for Justice

Many a times I keep thinking, Is law blind or it lacks its own eyes and ears to know the facts?

Today there are more than 3.2 crore cases pending in high court and lower court in India and mine is one among them. I never knew the meaning of law and justice till I knocked the doors of the court. To my surprise experts are still not able to define ‘Law’ despite brainstorming sessions of centuries. They could only say – law is what law it is and ‘It is what it is’. Those unhappy with the frequent irrationality of law like me say – law is a jealous mistress and law is a absolute mockery. Looking to the complicated nature of laws sometimes I feel law is Greek. One more concept is that law itself is blind hence, those who implement law need a deeper insight for proper application to achieve right results and proper justice.

The goddess of law and justice has also been depicted with blind folded eyes. The lady justice has her eyes covered, has a scale in her hand and holds sword in the other. However, her ears are open to listen to both the parties and perceive the facts of the case without any subjective intervention. This depiction of the statue with bind folded eyes is purposeful and this acquired blindness has a meaning. Judges should not judge by seeing things with their own eyes. In that case, they may behave like a witness and such an attitude may bring subjectivity. They are required to do justice after hearing the parties. Hearing is for impartiality and seeing is subjectivity as per the genesis of justice. But I wonder do judges understand the meaning of this justice lady or they are blind folded with their flattering ego and power.

One more perception about law is that no law can be so adequate which can perceive and comprehend all probable situations and the complexity of human nature. Different justifications for different situations make it impossible for any law to be universally acceptable as just and reasonable. It is for the judges to decide which side weighs heavier as per the merits of the case. Judges are humans and it is possible for humans to err and subjectivity can enhance the error hence this concept of objectivity has been imbibed. And most of the times the error is too costly for the person who is innocent and not guilty.

Delay in delivery of Justice and its repercussions

Let us first understand what is the meaning of this saying — Justice delayed is justice denied. Justice should be delivered at the right time. If it is not delivered at the right time, it either may lose importance or may become meaningless. Justice is denied when there is an inordinate delay. Let us understand what in meant by inordinate delay. It means that any delay which does not convince any man of normal prudence about delivery at a proper time, is a delay. Avoiding delay does not mean rushing for justice. Undue haste may also be denial of justice. It is therefore said that ‘Justice rushed is justice crushed.’ But most often justice is rushed when the judges are bribed and is delayed too for the same reasons.

Let us first take an example of a civil case regarding delays in delivery of justice – Suppose a case for a claim by an old man is pending. If the claim is not awarded at the right time, he may die natural death in some time due to age. Any delivery of justice after his death will be meaningless for him.

We may take another example of a young man fighting for possession of his workplace. He may lose work and can be rendered without employment for a longer time and gets frustrated. Nation has killed the enthusiasm of a young man and may be he renders himself as a hopeless case himself.

Let us take two examples of criminal cases. We may take one example of delay. The offender gets bail and is enjoying life as usual and may case threats to the life of the witnesses. A rape victim gets mentally tortured when she finds that the rapist is enjoying the loopholes of law and procedure and she loses hope. Many such victims have committed suicide. Justice delivery after her death is meaningless for her.

Take one more example of a lady fighting a custody case to meet her son and the time taken is so long that by the time justice is been given the child is capable enough to look after the parents and his childhood is lost .

Why Justice gets always or say most of the time delayed?

There are many reasons for inordinate delays in justice delivery system. The first is that the whole system has been inherited from the British system which takes long time in following the procedures. A close look at the Civil Procedure Code is a marvelous example of the procedures followed before the actual decision comes. It has a very complex and lengthy procedure which invites excuses for delay and scopes for revisions for minor deviations at various stages. Secondly, the infrastructure is not properly equipped to take care of the elaborate procedures. Thirdly, India has a very low ratio of judges as compared to the ratio of population of the western countries whereas we have adopted the western legal culture. Fourthly, the accountability of the judges at all levels is not adequately defined and ensured.

Besides these, there are many reasons that cause one or the other delay in delivery of justice to the affected. Many of the litigants still await justice to be delivered while for some the ‘decision’ by the court might lose every meaning, as it no longer can be rewarding for them.

Justice should be expedited not hurried

Series of discussions and brainstorming take place in every country across the globe to find ways to speed up the justice delivery system. Some of the significant outcomes of deliberations are being implemented while a lot of improvement needs to be done. What is left over is a hope that Justice will be done, and we live in that hope and die in that hope.

This blog is dedicated to all those courageous people who are fighting for their rights and are expecting justice to be delivered to them at the right time.

 

Top10 things Women Entrepreneur must do to achieve Success

“Money for me has only one sound: liberty.” asserts Gabriel Chanel. Liberty from destiny of dominance, subordination, discrimination and marginalization perpetrated by patriarchy is what women must seek. Since mythological times patriarchy has functioned as a major oppressive vehicle depriving women of an egalitarian existence relegating them to a subordinate pedestal where they are stripped of their own identity and treated as a possession rather than a partner. A hegemonic practice which restricts a woman’s essence only to her beauty and ability and willingness to gratify her husband – treated as caregivers.

Liberate from the shackles for a larger good
Women are projected as dependent upon men to provide them for everything. A mockery of democracy, this practice of thinking has lead to far reaching adverse social consequences. Patriarchy has not only affected gender relations but has also influenced both on macro-and-micro levels the moral, social, and economic structures – intensifying various class struggles.

However, these vices can only be curbed by dismantling patriarchal order. Annihilation of patriarchy will not only prevent discrimination on the basis of gender existing in every walk of life but will also be a catalyst of true liberation of humankind. Kofi Annan, seventh Secretary – General of the United Nations stated “More countries have understood that women’s equality is a prerequisite for development.”

Journey to success flags off within – Be an entrepreneur

Dr.Bindu Rathore Women Entrepreneur from India

 
Self reliance is the only road to true freedom and ultimately to development and establishment of identity. One of the manifestations of self reliance is financial independence through entrepreneurship. Historically entrepreneurship has been a male – dominated pursuit but today women- owned business has proved to be a great source of potential growth for economy and generation of jobs.

Tales that tell women too can do:
Today there are numerous sagas of successful women entrepreneurs that are not only exemplary of how one can swim across the tide but are also inspirational. Kiran Majumdar Shaw is one such woman entrepreneur whose hard work and commitment translated success catapulting Biocon into one of the major biopharmaceutical firms in India. After working for four years as a trainee brewer at Carlton and United Beverages in 1974, she initiated her own company, Biocon, from her garage with a meager investment of Rs 10,000. Her gender proved to be quite detrimental for her business aspirations as her loan application was turned down by almost all financial companies on the grounds of her being a woman. Despite the fact that biotechnology was in its incipient stage and her assets were nil, she did yield to adversities.

Another legendary example is that of Shahnaz Husain, the pioneer and leader of herbal care and vocational training in cosmetology in India. Beginning in a very small way, from setting up herbal clinic in her own home, she emerged as the reigning queen of cosmetics and beauty treatments in the world. Her incorporation of Ayurveda with latest techniques and unique innovations brought forth a new concept of “care and cure”. Today her company Shahnaz Herbals comprises of over 200 beauty centers worldwide, a range of 350 products, several beauty training institutes, herb plantations, manufacturing and retailing outlets. Shahnaz Husain enjoys a list of laurels to her credit, from being awarded India’s highest honor Padma Shree, in the field of industry and trade for bringing Ayurveda to West to World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success Group of the USA which in 1996 estimated the brands worth at over $100 million.

#1 Dream it to achieve it
What sets these women apart is not only their spirit that embraces challenges but also their foresight and faith and courage to pursue their dreams. However, when it comes to business mere intentions and lofty dreams do not suffice to be successful. Since entrepreneurship still remains a male dominated pursuit, the first step in this direction has to generate from a strong determination to be able to fight and resist prejudices and assert one’s identity.

#2 Keep Innovation live – Make your road to success
Without being afraid of being unique, one has to constantly keep discovering fresh avenues and approaches. Unconventionality brings novelty to one’s business thus making it instantly popular. This attitude should be coupled with the ability to sell one’s ideas. A well researched idea not only minimizes the chances of risk but also facilitates its execution. A strategic execution includes a comprehensive survey of market appeal and consideration of demands and supply.

#3 Take help of Technology
Keeping a tab on latest technologies and development not only enhances a company’s image but also provides the owner with the confidence to manage finances at all times. Also, it keeps you abreast with the latest trends that can really make things simpler.

#4 No Risk No Gain
Since entrepreneurship involves taking on financial risks in the hope of profit one must acclimatize oneself to the uncertainty associated with it. However, there is only one area called “customer satisfaction” that can rescue an entrepreneur from the extremity of such risks. Uncompromising maintenance of standards and on time delivery, adds to the credibility of a company.

#5 Take Informed Decision – But listen to your heart as well
A genuine entrepreneur is a visionary with the ability to take quick and firm decisions. An ambivalent entrepreneur is not only a poor leader but also breeds a slack work culture. Thus, every woman aspiring to be an entrepreneur must possess the guts to abide by her decision, come what may. Sometimes, the unknown, unseen powers inspire you within, give a heed to those voices as well.

#6 In Business, start from the basics
A small beginning can lead to great achievements if one commits to improve constantly. An entrepreneur must have colossal mental stamina and curiosity because even greatest of education, experience, and wisdom can fall short of success. Only constant improvement can act as a bulwark for failure.

#7 Update the books regularly
An organized and methodical record keeping of accounts provides a pervasive view of not only profit and loss but also of investments and expenditures. The expertise of running a household can easily be summoned here on a larger scale.

#8 Keep the ball rolling
Social networking helps business to flourish in a natural and rapid way. Publicity through “word of mouth” immensely strengthens the company’s market reputation. Building long term relationships and an association with other advanced business personalities or groups works as the best recognition.

#9 Love Aesthetics
In a business, the presentation of idea demands equal concentration and detailing as the idea itself. The packaging is as crucial as the product. One cannot discard pretentions in the world of business. In business, it is mandatory to propagate one’s achievements especially because it singles you out from your competitors.

#10 Nourish the roots
And, at last but not the least, a successful entrepreneur never shies away from her social and family responsibilities. She beams with the confidence to maintain the precarious balance between personal and professional life and takes care of her team’s financial and other versatile needs.

Kofi Annan, very rightly said, “When women thrive, all of society benefits and succeeding generations are given a better start in life.”

 

Top 10 Parenting Tips for Single Mothers in India

The simple thought of being a single parent is daunting and imbibes ghastly fear but when you actually live it ,it’s the most loving experience of life. Fostering children alone is indeed a difficult task, but if taken up as a challenge; it turns out to be an achievement both for the single parent as well as for the children, and In fact you can bring them up as best of the individuals, more practical and more lovable in life.

The intensity of pain en route this differs and depends on the situation that has turned the person into a single parent. A sudden death of the spouse or a breaking relationship with your soul mate turns the world upside down in a single minute for the survivor other. It is very difficult to cope up with reality but for the sake of children and family and for herself, it becomes tremendously important to regain and limp back life to normalcy. Instead of cursing God or the situations for this injustice, one should pray to grant abundant willpower to stand up again and endeavor to make up the loss for the children. Two persons of course make a company, a bond, but call it destiny or otherwise that some get the company of their spouse and children live a happy life. Some get only company of their child and it is their efforts that could turn the life of children happier despite of being a single parent. And there are some parents who do not even get the company of the child and just live by hoping and dreaming that some day they will be together.

Indeed, life becomes miserable when the spouse treats miserably and the children become victim of it. In such a situation it becomes quite inevitable and in fact, important for one to opt out and take divorce and nurture children alone. It is always essential to give children a cool and calm atmosphere to grow up. Infact bringing the children in calm , cool and loving environment as a single parent is much better than bringing in an environment of hatred, abuse and terrible living conditions. In such a situation, it becomes important, for women specially, to be strong, bold, confident and smart enough to manage the home financially and emotionally well. Men on the other hand have one or the other means of livelihood but if a homemaker turns single after marriage, it indeed is a miserable condition and she should overcome it as soon as possible. This way, not only the children but also the whole family gains confidence that she can really make it.

The society, no doubt, is very ruthless; it gives an unacceptable look when one is estranged from husband or has gone widow. They think single parent is an aberration but that is not the reality. Nowadays, because of lack of patience, understanding or misbehavior many parents break up. Even after such a mishap, if the woman has will power, she can step forward and can establish her identity besides raising her children well. Moreover, in such a situation, despite of all odds that situation and the challenges the so called modern society poses, nobody can stop her.

Life is not so easy without a life partner but when God puts a woman in such a situation, He grants her to face this jumbled society courageously. Experiences have shown that children of single parents are more confident, self-determined than others. They become strong since the day they get to know they are the support and company of their single mother.

Life throws different challenges to single mothers in different situations and there are endless challenges with innumerable measures to win over. Thus, an exhaustive list is impossible. Here are some important tips that can make life of a single mother simpler and rewarding for the children:

1.PATIENCE:
The goal that is single handedly growing up the kids should be the single stimulus behind all problem that come in the way of single mothers. Being patient at times of crisis is very important. After such a traumatic phase, it becomes essential to be patient. Instead of panicked or frustrated one should be determined to face up this new challenges. 

2.POSITIVE ATTITUDE:
This is key to life, It is very important to raise the children with positive attitude. The children should never get a negative portray of their father who has either left them alone in case of divorce. A child’s mind is like a blank page that is a tabula rasa. One can scribble anything onto it. Therefore, it is better to draw a better picture. One cannot change the past but can definitely design the present and the future.

3.COURAGE:
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather facing the fear with strong wit n determination. Nevertheless, one needs to have lot of grit to be a single mother. Nobody trains to become a parent, experiences makes them learn every aspect of life. It is very important for single mothers to be independent and to train the kids also in the same way. Lack of confidence can make single mothers lose the battle.

4.QUALITY TIME:
It becomes very significant to give quality time to children. Mothers who work to earn livelihood rarely finds out time for kids, as they are overburdened with out-of-the-home as well as household responsibilities. But one can try out playing a game with kids which can refresh all. Listen to their favorite music together and share a tempting meal together.

5.SELF – CARE:
One often forgets to take care about herself. Think of yourself also as important as others. Take adequate diet that keeps you energized and try some relaxation exercises. Go out for a lunch or movie with kids and friends. Share your feelings with them.

6.STRONG BONDING:
Children should have a friendly relationship with the parent. Single mothers should share their problems with each other. Never opt for permissive parenting style nor be too strict. One must set some rules for kids but must give them space to express their views as well.

7.REQUESTING HELP:
There is no harm in seeking help from family, friends or colleagues. One should not be too dependent but occasional help can ease your burden. Tasks can be done more efficiently when done in a group. One can also assign little duties to the children, for e.g. setting the table, watering the plants etc.

8.INTELLIGENCE:
One should have a great wit to handle all the financial demands. Know the priorities and spend accordingly. Demands of children should be fulfilled to a limit. Over pampering spoils children.

9.DAY PLANNER:
Since single mothers have to compensate the other half’s duties as well, thus it is better to stick to a routine and plan the day beforehand in order to make things happen on time. It is very essential to plan out the next day schedule. Running out in a random order can be exhaustive, so try working out systematically.

10.STOP FEELING GUILTY
Last but not the least ever, never ever feel guilty about whatever happens, never regret your past  Remembering the past is like reliving it and if the past has horrible experience, it is better to overcome the past and live in the present and seek a better future for oneself and the children.

Single mothers of the world have created role models like Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Bill Cosby, Michael Phelps, Demi Moore, Alicia Keys, Ed Bradley and many more.

Life is a vicious circle one never knows where it will lead the next moment. Thus, do not waste the moments in reliving the horrible past, live the pleasant present and make it a fruitful future for the kids. Take life as a challenge and prove yourself. God has given you beautiful puzzle blocks, keep fixing them up with smile and confidence and you see your children will grow to such positive and loving individuals.

Goal Oriented V/S Process Oriented V/s Result Oriented ?

I was wondering today why do People have difference of opinion, though they may have the same vision and are working to achieve the same objectives.  Both the employees/stake holders may work in welfare of the organization yet they are not able to synergize They may have same passion, same interest but may differ in their working styles and have a difference understanding for the same objective.

Did you ever feel that you wanted to really do something in your organization and you got entangled in the system and process that by the time you got the resources to achieve your objective the passion and motivation was lost ?

This is basically because there are two types of people –the goal oriented and the process oriented.

Goal oriented : Goal oriented people are people who strive and fight and move for the sake of attaining a goal. while being goal oriented is good to an extent — everyone reading this should have goals and be working some sort of plan to attain them — most people fall into the first group, those who focus primarily on being goal oriented and as such end up missing the elephant in the room.

Process Oriented: Likewise, process oriented people are folks who strive and fight and move because they’re looking to improve. Both of these people will achieve their goals, but unlike process oriented people, goal oriented people run the risk of getting to a goal and then sitting there, happily resting on their laurels. These folks can sometimes go the rest of their lives without realizing that while they may be achieving the goals they’re setting, they aren’t growing: by not focusing on the process, the goals they’re setting are a result of immediate necessity, and aren’t building anything up. These goals aren’t pushing them or making them grow.

So, what’s so important about goals? Simply put, without a goal there is no process. To impress upon you the importance of that statement, I’ll say it again: Without a goal, there is no process. Once a goal is set, however, once you know where you’re going, you have to pay close attention to how you’re getting there. Look at your goals regularly to make sure you’re on the right path, but pay close attention to improving your process while you get there.

Unlike those who are goal oriented, process oriented people will work towards their goal in such a way that in the process of attaining their goals, they stretch themselves and learn. These people will learn from their mistakes and will work not just to achieve a goal, but to ensure that when they achieve that goal they are better than they were before they started for that goal.

Process oriented people, on the other hand, attain goals because their process will take them in that direction anyway. For them, growth is not incidental, it is necessary, and goals are eventual. Because of this difference, the goal oriented person will not necessarily be able to look past the goal to the next goal until they get there.

The process oriented person will instead already be thinking about future goals, since everything they do is focused to the process of improving: goals just give them a direction in which to move. To the goal oriented person, goals are end points. To the process oriented person, they’re simply mile markers.

Now there’s a never ending argument on which is better and who performs the best. Because most of the entrepreneurs are goal oriented are motivated by achieving ambitious goals. If you put them in system and process they get frustrated and are not truly able to unleash their potential. Where as most of the big organizations are processes oriented. If the system and process are not put in place, the chances of failure are too high for them.

All that said, in reality, the best approach combines or balances the two extreme. What do you Say????

The Beauty of Dharamshala, Blessings and Teachings of Dalai Lama

Since my Childhood I heard and read about Dalai Lama but was never able to understand the deep meaning till I visited his holy place.  Dalai Lama is a name given to the chief priest of Buddhism in Tibet. The devotees believe him to be the reincarnation of various spiritual leaders who have taken rebirth to enlighten and guide humanity. The institution of Dalai Lama has become synonymous to the Tibetan identity. He is the spiritual guide to not only Tibet but many other countries, most prominently India, as well. And I m really glad , that we not only accepted him with a bigger heart but haven been a very good host to his holy highness.

Buddhism and its teachings have spread worldwide and are held in great respect. People who want solace and blessings of Dalai Lama can visit Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh in northern India. The word Dharamshala means, an inn attached to a temple. This city is located the the hills of North India, and this is the  place that Dalai Lama has made his blessed home. Thousands of Tibetan immigrants followed him to this place. This place has become of utmost importance not only for the followers of Buddhism but also for those who need peace and quietude. It is the sacred home of Dalai Lama and is a place where one can rejuvenate as Yoga and Meditation is in the air. Tibetan healings and Ayurveda are worth a mention. Those who are interested in history will find the history of Tibet and details about the monks here in abundance. The place even helps the foreigners understand Buddhism to depth.

His Holiness Dalai Lama and his teachings have made changes in the lives of many. The place is full of positive vibes, one also understands the concept of ‘green earth’, origin and duties towards Mother Earth here. Once at Dharamshala, one transcends the human limit and attains spirituality as the aura, the atmosphere of the place inspires one to look beyond the worldly pleasures. The echo of Tibetan chants with the Tibetan Drums, Tibetan Ceremonial Bronze Bell makes the place and environment soothing as well as enchanting. In order to understand Dharamshala and its essence one needs to understand Tibetan culture and Buddhism, the chant ‘OM MANI PADME HUM’ is considered to be the real Dharma by many.  I was not really fortunate enough to meet him and see him face to face, so you got to really plan your trip as per his travel schedules, which is indeed difficult.

The teachings of the Buddha consist of eighty four thousand instructions paving the right way to humankind on how to overcome the human afflictions that are the real causes of all sorrows. Many followers of Buddhism visit this place and take the teaching of Lord Buddha across the world. The Teachings were originally written in Sanskrit and were later on translated into many languages. Till date you will find them well placed in the temple.

Dharamshala is the main hill station in Kangda, which is situated in the mountain ranges of Shivalik and Dhouldhar. The place is surrounded by tea gardens, thick green trees and has a scenic beauty of its own. Dharamshala basically has two divisions, upper and lower. Upper Dharamshala, is the place which is rich in beauty, it is where Dalai Lama stayed during his exile. There is a Buddhist temple and visitors can come any time as the temple is open from morning till evening, and it is visited by thousands of devotees and tourists. In the center is beautifully carved statue of Lord Budhaand and on one side is the statute of Padmasambhava and to the other that of Avalokiteshwara.
For the lovers of arts and music there are The Tibetan Institute of the Performing Arts and Tibetan Library.  The Institute of performing Arts was founded in 1959 by Dalai Lama with an intrinsic aim of preserving and spreading Tibetan music, dance and theatre to the world. It also helps many artists. The Tibetan Library of Works And Archives was established in 1971 and it has the collection of rare books and Tibetan literature. There are books in some other languages also. The Library also acts as a teaching center that offers courses on Tibetan language and Buddhist philosophy and literature. There is a museum also known as the Kangra Art Museum, it consisits of the paintings of Kangra School.

The most beautiful part of this place is its people. They are so kind, helpful and believe in peace. At the same time they know how to deal with people who can tamper their peace. I was really surprised when a Lady welcomed us with all the love n affection to see her garden loaded with mangoes, litchis and lemons.

Dharamshala is a place worth seeing, as one does not only attain spirituality but also gets familiar to the rich tradition and culture of Tibet and India. Dalai Lama once said, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive….” Dharamshala is the place that is full of both love and compassion and a place where solace and spiritual upliftment besides alleviation from worldly sorrows begins……..And Yes, the journey has not been complete without proper planning and arrangement by  our tour operator Khama Ghani Holidays..I still cherish my visit to this place with my best friend Karan, Philip and Kristen….Someone truly said, life is not  about reaching destination but all  about the beautiful journey ahead.