In the midst of the pandemic, when our lives were confined to the walls of our homes and our hearts yearned for change, we stumbled upon a hidden treasure – Pillar Point Bluff. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots, this coastal haven became our sanctuary during those uncertain times. As COVID-19 kept us cooped up inside, the outside world seemed like a distant dream. Fear of encountering people and the virus itself made even the simplest outings feel like risky endeavors....

Why do we believe in destiny? Looking backwards and realizing why we are in a given position or situation is quite simple and straightforward. Outcome: An Indian Engineer settled in the US For example, if we studied an in demand degree in college, then found a job in a skill that was in demand, then took a job in a foriegn country, it is quite obvious to be living and settled in that country....

1. Who and what is worth going through tough times for? Family and close friends. 2. What do I believe in without worrying about what others think? Doing my own work and chores, even though I can outsource a lot more. 3. What would I do if I didn’t care about judgment? Be more forthright in expressing my opinions. 4. How will my daily habits shape my future? In 2023, I want to deepen my understanding in AI, specifically NLP....

In both my personal life and professional endeavors, the choices I make on a daily basis shape the course of my journey. For the longest time, I lacked a systematic approach to aid in decision-making. I used to consult close friends and colleagues whenever I faced weighty decisions, relying on their insights to guide my choices. A more effective and structured framework has emerged - one that I’ve found invaluable for navigating the complexities of decision-making....

In a world where technology continues to reshape our lives, I find my purpose in creating, building, and enhancing technological marvels that empower individuals to accomplish their tasks swiftly, adeptly, and cost-effectively. Rediscovering the Joy: Fond Memories Fueling My Passion Reflecting on what ignites my inner fire, I recall instances that have seamlessly made time evaporate, causing me to forget even the basic necessity of eating. These cherished moments include:...

Any organization that designs a system (defined broadly) will produce a design whose structure is a copy of the organization’s communication structure. — Melvin E. Conway Geographically distributed software teams have become a necessity in many organizations due to cost, manpower, compliance, or growth reasons. Ensuring that these teams function well is crucial for the success of software projects. Here are some strategies to achieve this: Build a strong, shared architectural practice: Foster a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing to ensure that communication patterns are not influenced solely by the teams’ physical locations....

In a world that often rushes past us, it’s important to take a moment and appreciate the simple joys and meaningful connections that enrich our lives. Yesterday, Vipul and Shilpi invited us along with Sunil and Lovina to their wonderful and lovingly cared for home. Vipul, Shilpi, and their son Sambhav created an ambiance that made us feel like treasured guests, enveloping us in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their attention to detail and genuine hospitality set the stage for an extraordinary evening....

An often overlooked ingredient, playfulness brings lightness and levity to outcome- and goal-driven work. It helps us connect better with our peers and helps remove stress. Here are some ways to bring playfulness into the workplace: Hackathons: Hackathons can be a periodic stress reliever, as they can help us solve problems that are interesting to solve instead of always working in a focused, revenue-driven fashion. Team-building activities: Team-building activities are another good way to connect with your peers in a different setting and situation....

Our mind plays a crucial role in determining our state of happiness or suffering. It constantly judges and compares, which can lead to negative emotions and dissatisfaction. However, it also possesses the capacity to bring us happiness and contentment if we learn to train and control it effectively. The metaphor from Shantideva’s “Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra” about walking barefoot on the Earth offers a valuable insight into the practice of meditation. When we walk on rough and coarse ground, it causes discomfort and suffering....

I love connecting with people and building relationships. Spending quality time together, engaging in games and activities brings me immense joy and a strong sense of belonging in my life. I have a deep appreciation for the beauty of art, food, spirits, music, movies, books, people, and nature. Engaging in physical activities and having deep intimate conversations uplift me. Being fully present in the moment and savoring the sensations around me brings me happiness....