Hierarchy vs Innovation

I have worked in two diametrically opposite work environments. In firms like McKinsey, there was no social hierarchy. Even a senior partner could not overrule a junior analyst using the force of authority. Dissent was not a right, but an obligation – at least, that...

Uncomfortable Means You’re Growing

During my four years in college, I was late for classes almost every single day. And after a while, it became a hardwired habit. So much so that if some day I got ready for class on time, I would feel like something was off – I would worry that maybe, I forgot...

Two types of Anxiety

Worrying does NOT cause all anxiety. In fact, there are two types of anxiety and they have different solutions. One type of anxiety is caused by worrying (i.e., thinking negatively about the future). When our ‘thinking brain’ (especially, the prefrontal cortex) starts...

How to break the habit of stress eating

Here is how to break the habit of stress eating. Every time you unthinkingly shove some snack into your mouth, ask yourself: Am I hungry? Or just bored and anxious? Stress eating is a classic mindless action that we do on autopilot. Here is a simple way to override...

Habits and Consistency

Today, it is not enough to eat healthy and exercise — you have to hack your metabolism. You have to hack your brain, hack your sleep, hack your energy levels… Thankfully, I haven’t seen anyone ‘hack meditation to attain bliss in 5...