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From Knowledge to Wisdom: A Lifelong Journey

  From Knowledge to Wisdom: A Lifelong Journey When we are young, we believe that knowledge is power . As adults, we come to realise that applied knowledge is far more powerful than knowledge simply acquired. And as we grow older, we begin seeking something deeper: wisdom . Wisdom isn’t just knowing more—it’s knowing better. Here’s a simple yet powerful way to remember the steps to wisdom: W - Wise enough to accept I –  Ignorance S – Seek D – Direction from O – Others who are M – Wiser than us The journey begins with a humble heart: being wise enough to admit our ignorance, and courageous enough to seek direction from those who have walked further down the path than we have. M.L. Narendra Kumar        
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Many Purpose, Many Paths: The Art of Coexisting

  Many Purpose, Many Paths: The Art of Coexisting What is your purpose in life? Ask ten people, and you might get ten completely different answers. Some will speak with spiritual passion—about the soul, about God, about finding inner peace. Others will sound deeply materialistic—chasing luxury cars, private yachts, and diamond-studded watches. Then there are the philosophers, wrapped in abstract ideas, and the practical ones, focused on daily goals and results. Each person defines purpose their own way. And that’s perfectly fine. But here’s where things go wrong: we often turn into critics. The moment someone else’s purpose doesn’t match our own, we silently—or loudly—judge them. We assume our path is the only true one. That’s not only unfair; it’s foolish. Each of us carries an inner compass—a unique mental navigation system. It guides us through life in directions that make sense to us. Shouldn’t we extend the same respect to others? Can we imagine a world where every...

Hard or Soft? The Surprising Lesson Your Bath Soap Teaches About Life

  Hard or Soft? The Surprising Lesson Your Bath Soap Teaches About Life The bath soaps we use every day may be hard or soft, but they all serve the same purpose: cleaning, maintaining hygiene, and leaving us feeling fresh after a bath. Interestingly, people aren't so different. Some people are "hard"—they sound like critics, always finding faults and speaking bluntly. They may hurt our feelings at first, but once we detach our emotions and listen, their words often become opportunities for self-correction and growth. Hard people make sense—if we're willing to hear them. On the other hand, some people are "soft." They pause before speaking, think twice, and when they finally offer feedback, it sounds assertive yet caring. But make no mistake—they, too, help correct us. Hard or soft, both types of people do the same essential work. The only difference is their approach. Now think about hygiene. In our daily bath, we shouldn't stick to just one ty...

More Reason to be Happy

  More Reason to be Happy There is more reason to be happy  when hostility is absent. There is more reason to be happy when hate is absent. There is more reason to be happy when jealousy is absent. There is more reason to be happy when irritation is absent. There is more reason to be happy when fear is absent. There is more reason to be happy when pessimism is absent. There is more reason to be happy when judgment is absent. There is more reason to be happy when worries are absent. There is more reason to be happy when dependency is absent. Go ahead and just be happy. Whatever is absent for now will come and go. But having a mind to enjoy the present is the path to happiness.   M.L. Narendra Kumar                  

The Double Edge of a Family Name in Business

  The Double Edge of a Family Name in Business In the business world, many companies are named after their founders, admired personalities, or even family members. For a long time, I wondered—why use a person’s name when so many brands prefer abstract names or abbreviations? During a conversation at an entrepreneurial forum, I finally asked a fellow entrepreneur that question. He introduced himself, then told me his company bore his grandfather’s name. When his father started the business, he wanted to pay tribute to the man who had been instrumental in making it all possible. “Generations should remember him,” he said. That moment stayed with me. Naming a business after someone is not just a marketing choice—it’s an act of love and memory. It carries stories, sacrifices, and silent prayers from the past. But there is another side to it—one that often goes unspoken. If customers are unhappy, or if the business gets tangled in regulatory trouble, it’s not just the company ...

8Cs- The Factors for Growth

  8Cs- The Factors for Growth A businessman was awarded as the best in his association across all parameters. Invited to the dais to receive the award and share his wisdom, he greeted the dignitaries and the audience. After accepting the award, he began his speech with this powerful quote: “In business, we either make profits or learn lessons.” He then introduced the 8 Cs —principles every businessman should follow to improve, sustain, and grow their business. He said: “People don’t buy products; they wish to fulfill their needs or solve problems. So let us be competent enough to do it. They want honesty and integrity more than discounts and offers—let us strengthen our character . They want us to keep our commitment . A word is not just a word; it is the seriousness that reflects our commitment in what we do. They want us to be consistent , not erratic or unpredictable. They don’t want to get strangled in confusion or chaos. They want to see their pain as our pain—let...

The Power of 8CS

  The Power of 8CS A business run for generations by the same family had grown significantly over the years. Now, the senior businessman who had led the entire group decided it was time to retire. Before stepping down, he gathered his core team—an extended family in every sense—to announce who would play which role going forward. The boardroom hummed with anticipation as the core team took their seats, with the senior businessman himself at the helm. He first called upon Praveen and said, "You will head the entire group." A wave of applause filled the room. The senior added, "To lead a company, you need a person with character , and Praveen is a man of character ." Next, he called upon Naveen and said, "You will handle the entire communication function—the nerve centre of this business—because you possess a clear mind and the ability to articulate your views with precision." Then, he turned to Ravi and said, "You will focus on quality, bec...