Sarita Bahl

I would prefer byte size podcasts that would make one tune in for the full time it runs. Long podcasts run the risk of loosing their audience in between. Short, sweet, and profound would be my mantra!

BUILD A PARTICIPATORY APPROACH The days of providing free/ gratis services to communities is so passé. It is no longer sustainable and in fact, makes the community dependent on the corporate for just about everything. Whatever you do, involve the community and then ask them to contribute financially. It is not the amount but the very act of a participatory approach that can change things on the ground. Money matters and money speaks. It is a universal language understood by all. Speak that language. It won’t make the corporate mercenary. On the contrary, the corporate can create deeper and more powerful and impactful sustainable programs.

CONNECT YOUR UNCOMMON SKILLS It’s expected that you will assess your skills, map them against what is needed, etc. and try to find common points. However, I urge you to think differently. You may none of the above common aspects, yet you can make a career in just about any field. Keep your mind open. Find those connections between uncommon competencies. We do not need specialists as much as we need generalists who come with an expanded mindset and an out-of-the box approach. As long as you are curious and eager to learn, jump into the unknown. You will figure it out.

LISTENING IS NOT TAUGHT ANYWHERE. YOU NEED TO LEARN THE ART OF LISTENING. Ever heard of a class for listening? Listening, which is such a crucial tool for building and strengthening relationships is never taught in any school or college. It is left to individuals to cultivate the art of fine listening. That can only happen by being fully present in the moment. Pay complete attention to the conversation. Look out for non verbal cues. Give space for the other person to complete the sentence. Do not interrupt. In the end, validate feelings and emotions. 'I understand what you mean'...can be your most powerful sentence that sets the tone for acknowledgement.

JOURNALING DAILY PROGRESS What next after being made aware of the impacts of climate change? What next after outlining for yourself the points of action? What next after mindfulness? Journaling! Set a target for yourself that you wish to achieve. For example, in the year 2024, I shall avoid buying new clothes and recycle the current wardrobe. Once the goal has been set, list down the various activities that you will need to do to achieve your objective. Review every quarterly to check on the progress. And finally, don't stress if you fall short - do not give up, make a new goal post and continue on your journey towards sustainability and your contribution for a greener world.

MENTORS CAN MODEL, NOT COACHES The space of coaching and coaches is very different and unique - coaches dance with the client. They should avoid sharing their own experiences. Rather, they should provide a safe space for the client to open up, thereby fueling creativity. This does not mean the coach is not authentic and/or transparent. Authenticity is the bedrock for any relationship. As a mentor, you can share your own experiences. A mentor can outline her/his own problem solving strategies, the learnings and challenges along the way, and the outcome. NOT A COACH.