A modest man in rural China, armed with little more than sheer willpower and a burning sense of justice, takes on a chemical giant. It’s not the plot of a movie—it’s the real-life journey of Wang Enlin. And let me tell you, his story will not only inspire you but make you believe in the power of one determined individual.

A Quiet Life, Disrupted

Wang Enlin lived a simple life in Yushutun village, nestled in China’s Heilongjiang Province. Like his neighbors, he depended on the land for his livelihood. But in 2001, his life turned upside down when Qihua Group, a state-owned chemical company, began dumping toxic wastewater onto the farmlands of his village.

The once-fertile soil that fed families and sustained their livelihoods was now a contaminated wasteland. Crops withered, and livelihoods were destroyed. Worse, no one seemed to care. Local authorities turned a blind eye, and the villagers, including Wang, were left helpless—or so it seemed.

An Unlikely Lawyer

Now, Wang could have accepted his fate. After all, what chance did a farmer with only three years of formal schooling stand against a wealthy, powerful corporation? But Wang wasn’t one to back down.

Determined to hold Qihua accountable, he decided to study law. Without money for legal education, Wang spent his evenings copying legal textbooks by hand in a local bookstore. The owner of the bookstore, impressed by his dedication, let him pay with bags of corn instead of money.

Over six years, Wang transformed himself into a self-taught legal expert. He studied environmental laws and regulations. His journey wasn’t easy, imagine trying to understand complex legal jargon with barely any formal education.

The Sweet Taste of Justice

With his newfound legal skills, Wang partnered with the Centre for Legal Assistance to Pollution Victims in 2007 and filed a lawsuit against Qihua Group. It was a David-versus-Goliath fight that dragged on for years.

In 2015, Wang and 55 fellow villagers achieved a historic victory when the court ruled in their favor, ordering Qihua Group to pay 820,000 yuan in compensation for the environmental damage caused. While the battle isn’t entirely over, the company continues to appeal the decision.

Why Wang Matters

Wang’s story isn’t just about a farmer fighting a chemical company; it’s about the spirit of a man who refused to accept injustice. It’s about the power of knowledge, the strength of community, and the belief that even the most ordinary individuals can achieve extraordinary things.

What makes Wang Enlin a hero isn’t just his victory—it’s his willingness to stand up for what’s right, even when the odds were stacked impossibly high.

Stories That Deserve to Be Told

And this is just a glimpse of Wang Enlin’s life. His journey is one of the many untold stories of unsung heroes that inspire us to rethink the power of determination and the courage to make a difference.

If you found Wang Enlin’s story moving, you’re in for a treat. In our book, Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes Part I & II, discover more about Wang’s life and bring to light many more incredible tales of everyday people who have done the extraordinary.

These stories are not just about celebrating heroes but about discovering the hero within us.

Pick up the book today – Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes

Let them remind you that you can make a difference no matter who you are or where you come from.

The post Wang Enlin: The Farmer Who Took on a Giant and Won appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

There must be something about writing in winter, that makes every story magical and epic. I also find winter the perfect reason for authors to write a book or perhaps even a masterpiece.

Why Winter Feels Like the Perfect Writing Season

One thing winter offers writers is space. Space to think, to dream, and to create. The season often forces us to slow down. The snow blankets the earth, muffling sounds, and the short days seem to whisper, “Stay inside, stay still.”

I don’t know about you, but winter makes me feel as if time itself has paused. This pause can be powerful for creativity. Without the distraction of bustling summer energy or the temptation of outdoor adventures, winter creates an environment where the imagination can really thrive. It’s no wonder so many writers have set their works in wintry landscapes, from Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina to C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

The Science of Cold and Creativity

Interestingly, there’s some science to back up the idea that cold weather might influence a writer’s creative process. Studies have shown that colder temperatures can help us focus. Why? Because when it’s chilly, our bodies and minds prioritize staying warm, which leads to increased mental alertness.

On the flip side, isolation (a common winter companion) can spark creativity as well. When we’re alone with our thoughts, we’re more likely to engage in divergent thinking, a process that helps us come up with unique ideas and solutions. Winter’s natural tendency to keep us indoors and away from social gatherings might just be the perfect recipe for unlocking creative potential.

Famous Writers Who Found Inspiration in the Winter

There are many iconic writers who found their groove in the winter months. Take Mary Shelley, for example. She came up with the idea for Frankenstein during a dreary, storm-filled summer that felt more like winter. The gloomy weather inspired her dark, gothic masterpiece.

Or think about Jack London, whose tales of the wild, like The Call of the Wild, were deeply influenced by his experiences in the cold, rugged Yukon. Winter wasn’t just a backdrop for his stories—it was practically a character.

Even modern writers like George R.R. Martin have spoken about how winter as a theme influences their work. After all, winter is coming, right?

My fav J.R.R. Tolkien wrote some of the chilling settings in The Hobbit during a particularly snowy season.

My Love-Hate Relationship with Winter Writing

I love winter. It’s my magic month. There’s just something enchanting about it—cosy evenings, foggy mornings, magical vibes, festivities, and the sheer beauty of the night sky. In fact, I’ve even written about this before in a post called Why Winter is the Best Season of All.

But I get it—not everyone feels the same way. For some, winter is less of a magic spell and more of a mood killer. The endless grey skies, the freezing temperatures, and the slippery sidewalks can make it hard to feel motivated, let alone creative. And honestly? I don’t blame them. There’s a strong reason behind that winter gloom.

The short days and long nights can drain energy levels. The cold can make us retreat indoors, and sometimes, into ourselves. So while I’m all about the winter magic, I understand where the “hate” part of the love-hate relationship with winter comes from.

The Role of the Winter Season in Literature

The winter season has been used in literature to create powerful moods, set the tone, and even symbolize big ideas. The cold weather can chill you to the bone and, at the same time, warm up a story, making it more intense or magical.

The Chronicles of Narnia

Take The Chronicles of Narnia, for example. In C.S. Lewis’ world, the land is stuck in an eternal winter, ruled by the White Witch. The ice and snow represent her power and control, but when Aslan arrives, the snow begins to melt, and spring comes back. So, winter here isn’t just about cold, it’s about good vs. evil and hopes to return after a long, harsh time.

Frankenstein

In Frankenstein, Mary Shelley uses winter to show the loneliness and suffering of Victor Frankenstein and his monster. The freezing cold in the Arctic feels like a reflection of the emotional isolation they both face. Winter, in this case, isn’t just about the weather; it’s about inner turmoil, loneliness, and despair.

The Lord of the Rings

In The Lord of the Rings, winter is all about hardship and survival. But no one can deny the sheer beauty of winter landscapes used in the films. Frodo and his friends face cold, dark landscapes as they travel through Middle-earth, making the journey feel even more dangerous. The harshness of winter adds to the sense of struggle, but it also makes the eventual victory feel even sweeter.

Game of Thrones

Then there’s Game of Thrones, where winter is more than just a season—it’s a warning. “Winter is coming” isn’t just a reminder about the cold; it’s a constant reminder that something dangerous is on the way. In Westeros, winter represents the threat of the White Walkers and the survival of humanity itself. The cold isn’t just about snow—it’s about the fight for survival and the fear of what’s coming with it.

Harry Potter

And, of course, we can’t forget about Harry Potter. Winter at Hogwarts is magical, but it’s also filled with mystery and danger. From snowy Quidditch matches to the cozy warmth of the Great Hall, winter brings a special charm to the Wizarding World. But it’s also the time when secrets are uncovered, whether it’s in the dark corridors or the icy Forbidden Forest. In Harry’s world, winter is both enchanting and a little bit ominous.

The Shining

Another great example is The Shining by Stephen King. The Overlook Hotel, which is isolated in the wintertime, becomes a chilling character in itself. The snowstorm cuts the hotel off from the outside world, trapping the characters inside with their darkest fears and the creeping madness that seems to spread like the cold. The harsh winter setting is perfect for the psychological thriller and horror elements that make the story so haunting.

Other Great Examples

In stories like The Winter’s Tale by Shakespeare or The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey, winter helps to reveal secrets, change relationships, and push characters to face challenges. It creates a mood of suspense or mystery, and it’s often the perfect setting for big twists or moments of reflection.

So, whether it’s a time of hope, isolation, or danger, winter is used in literature to add layers of meaning and emotion. It’s not just about snowflakes or frozen lakes, winter symbolizes the things we’re hiding or the things that need to be uncovered when the warmth of spring arrives.

So, Does Winter Really Inspire Writers?

So, does winter truly heat up creativity? The answer is… kind of. Winter creates the right conditions: quiet, stillness, and maybe even a dash of inspiration from the weather. But it’s up to us as writers to make the most of it.

It’s a paradox: while the cold can sometimes make us sluggish, it can also make us sharper, more focused, and deeply reflective.

For me, winter is less about forcing creativity and more about discovering it. It’s about finding beauty in the frost-covered mornings and drawing energy from the quiet moments. It’s about knowing the paradox, knowing that some days will be filled with bursts of inspiration, and others might call for just staring out the window, lost in thought.

And honestly, isn’t that what writing is all about?

What do you think, what inspires you the most to write in winter? Also, do let me know

Happy Winter!

The post Why Authors Find Winter So Inspiring? appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

I think everyone has their own definition of happiness. Some people find happiness in material things, while others prefer peace and quiet. Some love to party and many find joy in family and work. I will not judge anyone for their choices. I too spend countless hours scrolling through social media, comparing my life to the perfectly curated lives of others. But no matter how much I achieved, I still felt a nagging sense of emptiness.

The Fake Happiness Trap

1. The False Promise of Material Happiness

One of the easiest ways we get trapped when we look for happiness is by thinking that buying more things will make us happy. We see ads everywhere showing happy people with nice cars, big houses, and expensive clothes. These ads make us think that having more stuff will make us feel good. But studies show that after a certain point, having more stuff doesn’t make us happier.

We get excited when we buy something new, like a gadget or a cool outfit. But that excitement fades as soon as we get it, and we’re left wanting more. This quick burst of happiness is just a temporary feeling, a trick of our brains. It doesn’t last, and we keep chasing the next thing. We end up wanting something deeper that we can’t find in a store. The more we chase material things, the more we realize that true happiness isn’t something we can buy.

Take, for example, you buy a sports car or any other expensive item that you’ve always dreamed of. You drive it as fast as possible or use it to its full potential. But after all that, a big question arises: What now? Is this enough?

2. Seeking Approval in a Judgmental World

Social media has totally changed how we think about happiness. It’s like we’re constantly looking for approval online, always wanting likes and comments. We only post the best moments of our lives – the parties, the achievements, the perfect smiles. It’s like we’re trying to prove to everyone that we’re happy and successful.

But the truth is, relying on others to like us for our happiness is a bit shaky. Sure, it’s nice to see a bunch of likes on a post, but that feeling doesn’t last. We always want more, and we start to think our worth is based on how many likes we get. It’s like we’re chasing a never-ending high.

The worst part is how it makes us compare ourselves to others. We only see everyone’s highlight reels on social media, and it can make us feel bad about ourselves, even if we’re doing well. But real happiness isn’t about what other people think. It’s about finding peace within ourselves, loving who we are, and having genuine connections that don’t need to be shared online. True happiness is about accepting ourselves, flaws and all, without needing anyone else to validate us.

3. When Achievement Becomes a Never-Ending Chase

It’s awesome to achieve great things. It can make us feel really proud and happy. But if we only rely on achievements for happiness, we might end up feeling a bit empty.

It’s easy to get caught up in chasing promotions, awards, or praise. We might think that each new success will make us happy forever. This chase can be exciting, but what happens when we finally reach our goals? We might wonder why we don’t feel as happy as we thought we would.

The truth is, the happiness we get from reaching goals doesn’t always last. After the excitement fades, we start looking for the next big thing. This constant cycle can be tiring, and we might not have time to relax, enjoy the process, and appreciate what we already have. If we don’t take time to enjoy the present, even our biggest achievements might feel a bit hollow.

Real happiness comes from enjoying the journey, not just the destination. It’s about finding joy in the little things and being grateful for what we have.

4. Brief Moments of Joy, Endless Periods of Sadness

We all have those moments when we feel stressed or sad. It’s natural to want quick relief. Maybe you reach for a glass of wine, binge-watch a show, take a spontaneous trip, or eat a whole pizza. These things might make us feel better for a little while, but they don’t really solve the problem. They just hide it and keep us stuck in a loop.

These quick fixes might seem like a good idea at the time, but they often leave us feeling even worse. The good feeling fades quickly, and we’re left feeling more empty than before. Real, lasting happiness doesn’t come from temporary escapes. It comes from facing our feelings, understanding what we truly need, and connecting with our authentic selves.

Where to Search for True Happiness?

After a lot of trial and error (and plenty of frustration), I started to realize that true happiness isn’t something you can chase or force. It’s not found in a new job title, in being in a perfect relationship, or in accumulating stuff. Don’t get me wrong—those things can bring temporary joy or satisfaction, but they don’t provide the kind of happiness that lasts.

True happiness, I’ve come to understand, is found in the little things. It’s in the moments of peace, in the simple joys, and in the connections we make with others.

1. Within Your Heart

The most important place to look for happiness is within yourself. It’s easy to think that happiness comes from reaching goals or getting others to like us. But the real kind of happiness comes from loving and accepting yourself, just the way you are. Your little mistakes, your weird habits, and your special qualities-they all make you unique. This self-acceptance brings a deep sense of peace that nothing else can match. When you truly know and respect yourself, you open your heart to a happiness that will always be there, no matter what life throws your way.

2. Being Present

We often get caught up in regrets about the past or worries about the future, missing out on the simple joys around us. True happiness lies in the present moment. It’s about being fully present, enjoying every moment, whether it’s a cup of tea, a walk in nature, or a laugh with a friend. When you focus on the present, without distractions or fears, you invite peace and joy into your life. The present moment holds all the magic you need, if you simply notice it and let it fill you with peace.

3. Practicing Gratitude Daily

Gratitude is a game-changer when it comes to happiness. By appreciating what you already have—your health, your family, even the little things—you naturally bring more joy into your life. Gratitude shifts your focus away from what’s missing and highlights all the good things around you. When you make it a habit to be thankful, even for small moments, your heart fills with warmth, and happiness starts to feel more present in your everyday life.

4. Finding Your Purpose

There’s something incredibly fulfilling about living with purpose. Whether it’s through your work, hobbies, or helping others, doing things that align with your values brings a deep sense of happiness. It doesn’t have to be something grand—just knowing that what you’re doing matters to you can make even the smallest moments feel meaningful.

5. Living a Balanced Life

True happiness comes from balance. It’s about juggling the different areas of your life—work, rest, relationships, and self-care—in a way that feels right for you. When you create harmony between giving and receiving, between growing and being content in the moment, you feel more at peace. Balance helps you live a life that’s fulfilling and joyful, without feeling overwhelmed or weighed down by stress.

You’re Not Chasing Alone—We All Do It

I know it’s easy to think that everyone else has it figured out, especially with social media showcasing only the highlight reels. But the truth is, we’re all chasing happiness in some form or another—and most of us end up looking in the wrong places. The good news is, once you stop chasing and start living in the present, appreciating the small moments, and nurturing authentic relationships, you’ll find that happiness was never out of reach. It was always right there with you.

So, if you’re reading this and feel like you’re still searching for that elusive happiness, just remember—you’re not alone. And you don’t need to chase it in all the wrong places anymore. Sometimes, the best way to find happiness is to stop running and simply allow it to find you.

Show your support for the unsung heroes of our world by getting your copy of “Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes” on Amazon.

The post Chasing Happiness In All the Wrong Places appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

The Moon is one of my favourite targets. In the photo below, you can see its craters and shadows, though it looks even sharper through the telescope. The shadows along its horizon really bring those details to life.

Another favourite of mine is Saturn. Although my photos of Saturn are a bit blurry, I can still make out its famous rings.

This is where I started to think about upgrading my telescope (maybe that’s what I’ll get with my next paycheck!). Even so, there’s something magical about seeing Saturn, rings and all, with your own eyes.

I had one of my proudest astrophotography moments when I managed to capture the Orion Nebula. It was a bit of a lucky moment, honestly. I’ve only seen it once, and although my photo came out blurry, just knowing that I managed to capture it is a big win for me.

Over time, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Jupiter and its moons, Vega shining brightly, and even catching glimpses of tiny planets and wandering satellites. Each time I see something new.

Unfortunately, stargazing isn’t always easy in the city because of light pollution. Where I live, the best time to catch clear skies is in July to October when rain clears the air. Still, light pollution has gotten worse over the years. Studies show the Earth’s night sky is now twice as bright as it was a decade ago, and future generations might see only 30% of the stars we can see today.

The universe is expanding, and many distant stars will eventually drift out of view, so the night sky we enjoy now won’t be around forever.

Must Read: The Night Sky Deserve Your Attention

I might not have the best gear or the sharpest photos, but stargazing brings me so much joy. If you’ve ever thought about it, I highly recommend giving it a try—you never know what cosmic wonders you might find!

Happy stargazing!

The post My Astrophotography Collection appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

You know, sometimes when I watch the news, it feels like they’re not really asking the questions we want answers to. Maybe journalism schools have changed? Maybe deadlines are tighter than ever? Who knows. But what I do know is that good journalism is about more than just reporting.

It’s about asking the questions that make us think critically, and that give us a well-rounded picture of what’s going on. It’s about holding those in power accountable. This is what we were taught in school, remember?

I had a chat with my uncle, who’s been a journalist for over 20 years (he’s retired now), and he shared some insights that got me thinking.

He said, “Back in my day, we told the whole story – who, what, why, when, where, and how! These days, I don’t even know if they’re asking questions anymore! It’s like they’re missing the point of their job.”

My uncle has a point. Sometimes, it feels like news stories are press releases all dressed up. We get the basic facts, but there’s no follow-up, no challenging perspectives. It’s like watching a tennis match where one player just lobs the ball over the net, and the other lets it plop without a fight.

In countries like India and the USA, where big elections can change everything, the news plays a huge role. But lately, it feels like the media cares more about getting high ratings and making money than telling us what’s really going on. And I don’t think I’m the only one noticing this, you must’ve too.

I’ve noticed this trend for a while now, and it’s made me lose trust in a lot of news channels. I’ve even stopped tuning in to news channels for about three years now. I just don’t feel like I can trust them anymore, especially with all the political drama going on. Instead of just taking their word for it, I find myself checking multiple sources to make sure I’m getting the full picture.

I know not all of them are like that, some are genuine too. It’s just they’re losing the trust they had once.

But the question is –

Why’s all this happening?

Well, one reason could be that big companies own most of the media outlets these days. They care more about profits than real journalism, so they might avoid talking about controversial stuff or only show one side of the story. As a result, there’s pressure to prioritize stories that attract viewership or readership, often at the expense of substantive journalism.

And then there’s social media, which has made everything even more confusing. Fake news spreads like wildfire online, making it hard to know who or what to believe. Social media algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy. In such an environment, distinguishing fact from fiction becomes increasingly challenging.

There might also be cultural shifts and changing patterns of news consumption, particularly among younger generations. They’re more interested towards senseless, more visual and entertainment-oriented formats.

News is constantly evolving, and there’s a demand for instantaneous updates. This pressure to churn out content quickly can lead to superficial reporting and a focus on sensationalism rather than depth and analysis. Clickbait headlines and provocative soundbites are favored over nuanced exploration of complex issues.

The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black

Is There a Political Influence on Mainstream Media?

And let’s not forget the dangers of political influence on mainstream media. As the world becomes more polarized, media outlets might also be increasingly aligning themselves with either left or right-wing ideologies.

In some cases, media organizations may be directly owned or controlled by political figures or corporations with vested interests.

But perhaps the most alarming consequence of media manipulation is the threat to democracy itself. History is filled with examples of nations descending into dictatorship when the media fails to serve as a check on government power.

However, we all must agree that there are still plenty of journalists out there who are holding powerful people accountable. We can also be more critical viewers. If an interview feels soft, we can always do our own research to get a more complete picture.

So, here’s to the journalists out there who are still out there asking the tough ones! And to the rest, let’s remember the golden rule of a good story: who, what, why, when, where, and HOW? Because honestly, how can we expect to understand the world around us if we don’t get the whole story?

Did you read these incredible stories of everyday heroes around you? GET YOUR COPY TODAY!

The post Why Don’t Journalists Ask More Questions Anymore? appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

In the interview, we had a chat about why we felt compelled to write about ordinary people making extraordinary impacts in their communities and about how we got this idea from a blog category to a book series. We also talked about why these books should be on your to-be-read list.

It’s all about recognizing those everyday heroes whose stories often fly under the radar but have the power to touch our hearts.

We’re incredibly excited about the positive feedback we’ve received for our first two books, and we can’t wait to share more inspiring stories with you all.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to hop over to Colleen’s website to read the full interview. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about our journey and the amazing unsung heroes featured in our book. Let’s spread the word and celebrate those making a difference.

Thank you for your support, and I hope you enjoy the interview as much as we did!

Sip & Read Interviews: Ritish Sharma: By Colleen

Grab it, if you haven’t already – Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes

The post Catch My Interview with Colleen About Unsung Heroes appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

You’ve heard it before—parents, grandparents, or random people on social media talking about how “back in their day,” life was tougher, people were stronger, and failure was a valuable life lesson, not something to be avoided like the plague. So, are we really becoming too soft, or is this just the circle of life repeating itself?

Before I get into it, know that this is a light-hearted exploration of a common generational stereotype. It’s important to remember that every generation has its unique challenges and strengths.

The Survival Instinct: Are We Losing It?

One common argument is that the new generation lacks the survival instinct that our ancestors relied on. Some argue it’s fading fast. There’s a growing sentiment that the competitive spirit is disappearing. Nowadays, in many areas, it seems like everyone’s a winner, no matter the outcome.

And while participation trophies feel nice at the moment, what happens when these kids step into the real world, where failure is a more frequent visitor than success?

Think about it—most entrepreneurs, athletes, and artists have one thing in common: failure. They lost at some point, but instead of shrinking back, they learned, grew, and succeeded. Michael Jordan didn’t become a basketball legend by winning every game.

He famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career… and that is why I succeed.” But what if young Jordan had been told, “Hey Mike, it’s okay, we’re all winners here. No need to push yourself”? Maybe the competitive fire would’ve been dimmed.

Nowadays, it seems like kids are being raised in a bubble. They’re encouraged to think that there’s no such thing as failure, that everyone gets a trophy, and that life is basically one big party. But the real world doesn’t work that way. You have to go through setbacks, disappointments, and even heartbreak to become a strong, successful person.

A world where failure doesn’t exist is a world where growth stagnates. We need to realize our own potential, but sometimes that potential is only unlocked by facing hard truths.

The Rise of Anxiety

It’s undeniable that anxiety rates have been rising among young people. Studies show that Gen Z reports higher levels of anxiety than any previous generation. Some argue that this is, in part, due to a lack of accountability and responsibility. No one wants to admit fault or own up to their mistakes because we’ve created a bubble where blame is avoided at all costs.

But some also point to a culture of coddling and overprotection as contributing factors. When young people aren’t allowed to make mistakes or face consequences, they may struggle to develop the resilience needed to cope with life’s challenges.

Rules of Life Aren’t the Rules of Society

Here’s a wild thought: does the average person today understand why humanity exists, how the universe works, or what life is really about? It sounds like a deep, philosophical question (and it is), but it’s also a reflection on how disconnected we’ve become from the fundamentals of life.

We’re more plugged into our screens than we are to reality. The rules of social and political structures shape much of our world, but life’s deeper truths—like the importance of failure, responsibility, and self-discipline—seem to get lost in the shuffle.

And speaking of screens…

Real Life, What’s That?

A lot of today’s generation has spent most of their lives behind a computer screen, with many of their experiences happening through a monitor rather than in real life. Their friendships are virtual, their problems are solved via Google or Artificial Intelligence, and their entertainment is streamed. Real-life experiences? Those are becoming rarer than finding an honest politician.

While technology is amazing (let’s not forget how it’s revolutionized everything from communication to medicine), it’s also made it easy to avoid real-world challenges. Why take a risk and put yourself out there when you can just “like” someone’s Instagram post instead of actually talking to them in person?

Everything, All the Time

We live in a time where desires are celebrated—no matter what they are. It’s all about indulgence, gratification, and doing what feels good. But that’s not a path to happiness. As humans, we need temperance. Life isn’t just about satisfying every whim that comes our way. If anything, overindulging can lead to unhappiness and weakness. True happiness comes from self-mastery, from learning to control desires, not letting them control us.

Further Read: Why Moderation in All Things is Good?

Every Generation Thinks the Next Is Soft

Now, before we get too carried away, let’s take a step back. Every generation calls the next generation soft—it’s practically a rite of passage! We’ve been saying this for millennia. Sure, each generation becomes “softer” than the last, but isn’t that kind of the point of civilization?

We’re constantly improving living conditions, inventing new conveniences, and making life a bit more comfortable. Would anyone really want to go back to a time without air conditioning or Wi-Fi? Didn’t think so.

At the same time, while comfort is great, we shouldn’t completely idolize the present and forget that toughness, discipline, and resilience still have their place in shaping well-rounded humans.

The Golden Era of Intelligence

Despite all the criticisms, here’s a silver lining: we are living in an era of incredible intelligence and creativity. Statistically, we are advancing at a rate never seen before. The new generation is smarter, more informed, and more connected to global issues than any generation before them. They’re the ones who will carry this torch forward, and they’ll find their own ways of doing so.

So, are they soft? Maybe in some ways, sure. But softness isn’t necessarily bad—it’s just different. Every generation faces its own unique challenges, and while we can debate the merits of coddling or competition, the truth is that each generation finds its balance in the end.

What do you think? Is this generation too soft, or are they simply adapting to a new world?

Let’s not idolize the past, but let’s not overlook the lessons it offers either.

Guest Post Accepted! Submit Here.

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Who is Katie Stagliano?

Katie was your average kid living in Summerville, South Carolina. That is until one day, a small school gardening project set her on a path that would change thousands of lives. At the age of nine, she brought home a cabbage seedling as part of a school gardening project. Little did she know, this small plant was about to grow into something much bigger—not just in size but in impact.

“Every single day after school, I would diligently tend to my seedling, watering and weeding around it with great care,” Stagliano recalls. “I was constantly worried about the deer getting to it, so I took matters into my own hands and constructed a protective cage using wooden posts and chicken wire.”

The Cabbage That Started It All

When Katie took her cabbage seedling home, she planted it and gave it all the care in the world. As time passed, it kept growing… and growing… and growing! By the time it was fully grown, it weighed almost 40 pounds. Most kids might have marveled at their giant veggie and called it a day, but not Katie. She decided to donate the cabbage to a local soup kitchen, where it ended up feeding 275 people.

Just think about that for a second—275 people fed from one cabbage.

That moment was like a spark for Katie. She realized that if one cabbage could do that much good, what could a whole garden do?

And Then Came Katie’s Krops

That’s when Katie’s Krops was born—a nonprofit with a mission to encourage other kids to grow vegetable gardens and donate the harvest to feed people in need. She wanted kids across the U.S. to grow their own vegetable gardens and donate the harvests to help fight hunger. She started with her own backyard garden and then expanded the idea into a nationwide initiative. Today, there are Katie’s Krops gardens across the country, all run by kids who are planting seeds and changing lives.

It Wasn’t Always Easy

Like any great story, Katie’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. As a young girl with a big dream, she had to learn how to manage the logistics of running a nonprofit, rally volunteers, and keep the gardens growing (literally and figuratively).

There were crops that didn’t survive, funding issues, and, of course, the learning curve of growing a movement from the ground up (literally). But if there’s one thing Katie has shown the world, it’s that she doesn’t give up.

Countless people have been fed through these gardens, and even more young people have been inspired to get involved in their own communities.

The Impact of Katie’s Krops

Fast forward to today, and Katie’s efforts have been nothing short of amazing. Since 2009, Katie’s Krops has grown and distributed over 500,000 pounds of fresh produce to individuals in need across the nation. In October 2022, the organization marked 12 years of the Katie’s Krops Dinners, a commendable feat of providing over 50,000 meals to neighbors in need.

Want to Know the Full Story?

Katie’s journey is just one of many stories about incredible young heroes quietly making a huge impact. If you’re curious to hear more about Katie’s experiences and the people who supported her along the way, then you’re in for a treat. We’ve captured her story—along with many others—in our book Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes. If you love feel-good stories about people making a difference, grab Part 1 and 2 on Amazon today.

Don’t wait – start reading today: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2QL4VTZ

Enjoy the read!

Know any Unsung Hero? Let us know at Namaskar@theblogera.com

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It’s the ideas behind all the success stories. Planning is just a process in a way of how & when to implement the ideas.

Just think, if planning is that important then why do most successful celebrities or entrepreneurs always say “We never planned to become an actor, we just ended up here. We’re blessed”.

Even the majority of schools and colleges cornerstone the existing knowledge which is undoubtedly important too.

But what if schools & colleges actually helped students explore their talents and creative ideas instead of putting them follow the same old routine. Wouldn’t it be better? Harvesting and analyzing new unique ideas.

The Power of Ideas

According to me, our actions are based on our initial ideas. Without ideas, planning isn’t made, progress isn’t made, change won’t happen and everything just stops developing.

It’s no wonder that most of the things around you, perhaps you are using it right now are based on someone’s idea. Even the last meme you just saw.

Do you know? Memes were introduced in 1976 by British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins in his work “The Selfish Gene”. His concept is now trending worldwide and more contagious than any other virus. They’ve taken over all the social platforms.

Not only this there are plenty of examples around us. Like when I started to write, I learned a lot of things that I didn’t even know. I learned that a unique concept is necessary to differentiate your work from others and to bring out the best in you. However, that’s a different story some of my ideas just vanish as soon as I pick up the pen.

That’s how a middle-class 16-year-old boy found his way. Neil Patel started working as a trash picker and now he is among the top 100 influencers on the web. He managed to keep up with the idea of putting his efforts and time into SEO for his content to compete with the big guys in the market.

Ideas are everywhere, in people you talk to, in your life experiences, in things you read, in adventure, in music, in books & magazines. The mind is capable enough to produce tons of ideas but only the conscious mind can produce exceptional quality ideas. But in the end, it’s up to you whether to hold them or just let them go.

That’s how the world-famous author J.K Rowling came up with the legendary franchise of Harry Potter. She conceived the idea of Harry Potter in 1990 while sitting on a delayed train from Manchester to London King’s Cross.

She sat for 4 hrs waiting for that delayed train. She continued to imagine these ideas throughout her journey. Over the next 5 years, she began to map out all 7 books of the series.

Isn’t it amazing? Actually, it’s inspirational how J.K Rowling went from a struggling mother to the world’s most successful author. Just because of an idea.

You know I love watching science fiction movies. They make me wonder about things that don’t even exist yet. They are the bouquet of brilliant concepts. Movies like Interstellar and Inception by Christopher Nolan are among those. I remember a line from the Inception movie saying that:

“An Idea is like a virus. Resilient. Highly contagious. And even the smallest seed of an idea can grow. It can grow to define or destroy you”

COBB

The thing is everyone wants to be creative. Everyone wants to come up with better ideas and wants to shout EUREKA! EUREKA!. But it isn’t that easy.

It is easy to have ideas but requires a lot of effort & guts to execute them. The idea is unperceivable in our mind which can be seen by our mind only but when we craft it into a perceivable reality, we’ve been creative. Being creative means being capable of seeing beyond.

Role of Ideas in Evolution

It’s the idea that we have come this far and still going and will continue to go, to evolve, to bring out a better tomorrow. Our future is the fruit of the seed that our minds can produce today. And we should know how to cultivate it. The greatest thing is that the fruit will be for the entire mankind.

This was the case that all the great scientists came up with the ideas, otherwise the entire world would have been limited to its restraining life-cycle.

Role of Ideas in Business

The world is owned by ideas and innovations. Businesses know how much they are fond of innovations to remain in the market. This may be the reason why most companies keep their tagline synonym to the word ‘idea’ or ‘innovation’.

An American politician and 35th U.S. President, John F. Kennedy wrote:-

A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on. Ideas have endurance without death

John f. kennedy

Where do great ideas actually come from?

We are doing things all the time now on the internet that we couldn’t have even dreamed of 10 years ago. It’s all because of innovation and the ideas behind it.

As I said above ideas are everywhere. Our mind uses vacant space to generate ideas. Regular thousands of thoughts come to our minds but most of them are unnecessary and unproductive.

Here’s why you should avoid overthinking.

Thinking of ideas doesn’t necessarily require you to sit down with pen & paper and force your brain to come up with them. Sometimes it comes spontaneously when you least expect them to.

Optimize and analyze your quality & relevant ideas that generate the greatest impact, which can be achieved through meditation and a disciplined lifestyle.

What is the problem of innovation?

What the internet is doing to our brain? We spend more time searching for others’ hunches than one’s own. The Internet is home to existing knowledge.

But think from a different perspective too. Even after the borders make the youth of this world afraid to leap and see beyond, the internet allows us to connect with more and more people to share our creative ideas and combine them to make something even more spectacular.

I suddenly got this urge to work hard in life, not because I’m ambitious or I want to pursue wealth, but because I’m scared. I was scared of time slipping through my fingers. And that’s the complication with being mortal. But anyway, use your time wisely. There is so much to do & explore. Just get the idea!

And remember:

If your degree isn’t making any difference, perhaps one idea can.

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In a world where information is easy to find, the idea of keeping things secret might seem old-fashioned or even useless. However, secrecy is still a strong and important part of being human. Secrecy is an idea that has fascinated us for a long time. It’s found in everything we do daily, from what governments do secretly to what we tell our friends and family, and even the whole universe, filled with mysteries.

Keeping secrets is about withholding information intentionally. It might be because you’re protecting someone, maintaining privacy, or simply not ready to share. Telling lies is about intentionally providing false information. It’s often done to deceive or mislead. The reasons why we keep secrets are different, often connected to our feelings, how we get along with others, and what is important to us.

Not All Secrets Are Bad

Secrecy is like a fence around our lives. It helps us keep things private and safe. When we keep secrets, we protect our feelings, identity, and privacy. This is a good way to take care of yourself by keeping things close to your heart, you feel safe and can do things independently.

Chanakya, an ancient Indian polymath once said:

If you can’t keep your secret, how you can expect someone to keep your secret

Sometimes, secrets are necessary for self-preservation. Sharing too much with the wrong people can put you at risk.

We all have secrets. Some are big, some are small. Some we share with others, and some we keep to ourselves.

Hidden Power of Secrecy in Personal Relationships

Now, this doesn’t mean secrets should be used to manipulate or deceive—far from it.

In relationships, a little mystery can be a good thing. Being kind and thoughtful about it can make your connection with your partner even stronger. Giving each other some personal space can be a way to show respect for who you both are. By respecting each other’s boundaries, you can both grow and be yourselves. This helps you trust each other more.

Sometimes mystery can even help keep your relationship strong and healthy. It can help you avoid arguments and focus on what matters the most. It also allows you to share what you love about each other without hurting each other’s feelings. For Example, when we don’t like our partner’s pov and any other things which might create chaos at that time we can postpone things for the future and wait for the right time to talk.

When partners respect each other’s privacy and encourage self-reliance, they can feel more independent and emotionally strong. This helps them trust each other and feel good about their relationship. In many cultures, it’s important to keep some things private in a relationship. This can help protect your relationship from outside influences and keep your feelings safe. By not sharing everything with everyone, you can let your relationship grow at its own pace and stay connected to each other.

Hidden Power of Secrecy in the Digital Age

In today’s world, it’s important to keep some things private. This helps protect our personal information from being stolen or used in bad ways. For businesses, keeping things secret is very important. It protects special information and plans, helping companies stay ahead of others and safe from spies. Secrecy can help creativity and innovation by keeping ideas safe. This allows people to think without worrying about others seeing their ideas.

In research and development, this secrecy can lead to new discoveries in technology, medicine, and engineering. When people trust that their ideas are private, they can build stronger relationships with each other. In business and politics, keeping things secret can be helpful. Companies can hide their plans from competitors. Diplomats can talk about important things without others knowing. People who tell secrets about bad things can do it without getting into trouble.

For example, In 1998, India conducted a series of nuclear tests in Rajasthan. These tests were called ‘Operation Shakti.’ They were underground explosions and took place in the Pokhran area. The Indian government kept these tests a secret to avoid being watched by other countries and their personal interest like the United States of America` and to stop them from interfering. They were very careful about keeping it secret, and even many people who worked for the government and the army didn’t know about the tests until right before they happened.

India was able to show its nuclear power without being pressured by superpowers or attacked by other countries. This was important because India has neighbours that also have nuclear weapons, like China and Pakistan. By keeping this a secret, India was able to do what it wanted and stay safe.

Sometimes, governments need to keep things secret to protect us. This isn’t just about hiding things, but also about staying safe and making good choices without others interfering. It’s like a parent who knows when to tell their child something to build trust.

Protecting the Beauty of Life

Secrecy also has a role in preserving the beauty of certain things. When you keep a secret, you’re safeguarding something precious. Think of a relationship in its early stages. There’s a sweetness in the quiet moments shared between just the two of you. These secrets are not about deception but about creating a safe space where intimacy can flourish without external judgment or interference.

People often tend to ruin beautiful things, whether out of jealousy, misunderstanding, or simply a desire to impose their views. This isn’t about living a double life but about honouring the sacredness of your personal experiences and relationships.

Also, there’s a saying:

A Fish with Its Mouth Closed Never Gets Caught

Secrets can be good or bad, they can protect us or hurt us, depending on how we use them. In our relationships, work, and government, deciding to keep things secret or tell the truth has big consequences.

Secrets are a part of who we are. They can be a source of strength, power, and protection. So don’t be afraid to keep your secrets. Just be sure to choose your secrets wisely and to keep them safe.

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