Avoid these 3 common phrases that can hurt your child’s confidence

 Parents want the best for their children, often pushing them to grow, learn and thrive but in moments of stress or frustration, certain words can unintentionally harm rather than help. Avoid these three common phrases that parents often use without realising but their impact can be very damaging for kids.

“Why can’t you be more like your sibling/friend?”

Comparison may seem like motivation but it usually backfires. Studies show that comparing children to others fosters resentment, rivalry and feelings of inadequacy. When parents compare, children interpret it as “I’m not good enough,” which erodes self-worth. Highlight individual strengths. Say, “I love how creative you are with your drawings. Let’s build on that.”

“You’re too sensitive/Stop crying.”

Parents may use this to calm a situation but it sends a dismissive message. Invalidating a child’s feelings can lead to difficulties in emotional regulation and lower self-confidence in expressing needs. When children are told they’re “too sensitive,” they internalise the idea that their emotions are wrong, weak, or shameful. This stunts healthy emotional growth and self-trust. Acknowledge emotions with empathy. Try, “I see this really upset you. Let’s talk about it.”

Words are powerful, especially when spoken by parents.Often said as a warning but it instils fear more than motivation. Instead of feeling capable of improvement, kids hear, “I’m doomed to fail.” This belief can discourage effort and experimentation—two keys to building resilience and confidence. Focus on growth. Say, “If you practice differently, you’ll get better at this.”

“You’ll never succeed if you keep doing that.”

While phrases like comparisons, emotional dismissals, or absolute warnings may be unintentional, they can deeply affect how a child views themselves.

GST on insurance premiums - Clarifications

 GST on Insurance Premiums:

The Indian government’s decision to scrap the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and health insurance premiums starting September 22, 2025, has brought relief to millions of policyholders. However, it has also raised confusion. One major question being asked is: What happens to those who have already paid lump-sum premiums for multi-year policies?

While monthly or quarterly payers will automatically benefit from the exemption on payments due after September 22, those who prepaid for long-term policies are now wondering whether they can get a GST refund for the future coverage years already paid.

The answer, unfortunately, is no. If you’ve already paid a lump-sum premium—say, for a 3-year health insurance or a single premium life insurance plan—the GST collected at the time of purchase has been deposited with the government. Since the transaction is considered complete, there is no legal or procedural mechanism for insurers to refund GST retrospectively.

“The GST benefit applies only to transactions made on or after the effective date. Therefore, policyholders who have already locked in their premium for multiple years will not be eligible for any refund of the GST component for the remaining tenure of their policy.”

In simple terms: even if your policy covers future years, you won’t receive any reimbursement of GST for premiums already paid before September 22.

What About Monthly, Quarterly, or Annual Premiums?

For those paying premiums in installments, the situation is different. If your next payment falls on or after September 22, 2025, it will be GST-free.

For example:

Suppose you pay your life insurance premium on the 23rd of every month.

The installment paid on August 23 attracted 18% GST.

The next installment on September 23 will be completely GST-free.

This rule applies across monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual premium structures, provided the due date is on or after September 22.

Grace Period Confusion:

GST Still Applies if Due Date is Before September 22

A common doubt arises around grace periods, which allow policyholders a few extra days after the due date to pay their premium. Many wonder if paying during the grace period after September 22 would mean 0% GST.

The answer: No.

If your due date is before September 22, GST will still apply—even if you pay later, within the grace period.

For example:

If your health insurance premium was due on September 15, and you paid on September 25 (within the grace period), GST at 18% will still be charged.

This is because the due date—not the actual payment date—determines GST applicability.

Free-Look Period and Policy Cancellations: A Rare Case for GST Refund

The free-look period—generally 15 to 30 days—allows customers to cancel a newly purchased policy if unsatisfied. In such cases, insurers are required to refund the premium plus GST, minus charges like stamp duty, medical test fees, or the cost of days already covered.

Here’s an example:

Suppose you bought a life insurance policy on September 12 with an annual premium of ₹30,000 + 18% GST.

You decide to cancel it within the free-look window, say in early October.

The insurer will refund your premium plus GST, minus deductions.

“Since, at the time of return, the supply of insurance is not fulfilled, the GST should be refunded by the insurer along with the premium. A credit note should be issued for the return of GST.”

However, this refund process is linked to cancellation, not to the GST rate reduction itself.

Should You Wait Until September 22 to Buy New Policies?

Many insurance companies have already started adjusting their offerings to help customers benefit. For instance, some insurers, like ICICI Lombard, are allowing customers to buy a policy today but activate coverage from September 22, ensuring the premium is GST-free.

This means:

If you’re planning to buy a new life or health insurance policy, it may be wise to wait until after September 22 (or choose an insurer offering deferred start dates).

Doing so ensures that you avoid paying GST altogether.

Key Takeaways for Policyholders

No GST Refund for lump-sum multi-year premiums already paid.

Future installments due after September 22 will be GST-free.

Grace period payments for due dates before September 22 will still attract 18% GST.

Free-look cancellations can result in GST refunds (subject to deductions).

New buyers should ideally start policies on or after September 22 to avoid GST.

The GST exemption on life and health insurance premiums is a major positive step for policyholders, reducing the cost of essential financial protection. However, clarity is crucial—especially for those who have already prepaid their policies.

While there’s no refund for GST already paid, future transactions will benefit from the exemption. Policyholders planning new purchases or renewals should time them wisely to make the most of the 0% GST regime.

INDIA'S FUTURE GROWTH

India's future growth is predictable. 

According to McKinsey, these 10 sectors are about to explode. 

 Some by 6 to 10x in the next decade. This is not just growth. This is history being written. Over the next few years. 

India will add up to $5 trillion to its economy. That’s like building another India inside the current one. But this time it’s not just IT and outsourcing. This time we’re building chips, rockets, energy and AI. These 10 sectors are about to define India’s next decade. 

Sector 1 : EVs and Batteries (6 times growth) India is already the third largest car market. But electric vehicles are the next ₹40 lakh crore wave. Tata, Ola and Mahindra are building the vehicles. But the real money is in lithium, charging infra and battery recycling. One startup here could power 10 cities. 

Sector 2 : AI Software and Services (5 times growth) Every Indian IT firm is quietly turning into an AI firm. Infosys, TCS and Zoho are just the tip. The new wave? Indian AI tools for law, medicine, education and Bharat languages. McKinsey says this space alone can add ₹16 lakh crore to India’s GDP. 

Sector 3 : E-commerce (4 times growth) In 2014, India had 5 crore online shoppers. In 2030, we’ll cross 60 crore. And they won’t just be on Flipkart or Amazon. They’ll shop through voice, WhatsApp, influencers and rural fintech. The market is moving from English to Hinglish. From metros to mandis. 

Sector 4 : Semiconductors (3 times growth) India is done being just the software guy. Now we want to make the chip inside the device. Tata, Vedanta and Micron are setting up fabs with up to 50 percent government support. If this clicks, India won’t just be assembling iPhones. We’ll be designing their brains. 

Sector 5 : Space (4 times growth) This is no longer just ISRO. In 2023 alone, over 100 space startups emerged in India. From launching satellites to building reusable rockets, India is now SpaceX at one-tenth the cost. The global demand for low-cost launches is sky-high. And India is ready to supply. 

Sector 6 : Nuclear Fission (5 times growth) Sounds futuristic. But the future is now. India needs 24 times more clean energy by 2047. Nuclear is compact, zero-carbon and reliable. And new-age reactors like SMRs are being quietly explored by giants like Reliance. 

Sector 7 : Renewable Energy and Storage (3 times growth) India aims for 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030. But solar panels and windmills are useless without storage. This is where battery parks, hydrogen and pumped hydro come in. Storage is the backbone of the green revolution. 

Sector 8 : Bio-to-X Technologies (3 times growth) India generates over 75 crore tonnes of biomass every year. That’s not waste. That’s fuel, packaging, electricity and even jet fuel. Startups are converting crop residue into high-value exports. Biotech is not just pharma anymore. It’s bio-everything. 

Sector 9 : Biopharma (4 times growth) India already supplies 60 percent of the world’s vaccines. But now we want to invent them too. From AI-based drug discovery to high-end biologics, Indian pharma is going from generic to genius. This sector alone could become bigger than the entire IT industry in a decade. 

Sector 10 : Cybersecurity (2.5 times growth) In 2023, India faced over 9 lakh cyber attacks. As UPI, healthtech and govtech scale, data threats will multiply. India is already building its own digital fortress. Startups are creating India-specific tools for detection, prevention and recovery. These 10 sectors could generate over 10 crore jobs. They will define our IPOs, our exports, our college degrees and even our politics. The next 25 years won’t be services led. They’ll be innovation led. India is not just growing. It is transforming into the world’s biggest bull market.

Inputs from the book "How to Raise a Man" by Megan De Beyer

10 key lessons and insights from the book:

1. Understanding Masculinity: You learn that masculinity is not a monolithic concept. It's essential to understand that there are healthy and unhealthy expressions of masculinity, and nurturing the former can lead to well-rounded individuals.

2. Emotional Intelligence is Key: De Beyer emphasizes that teaching boys to express and understand their emotions is crucial. Encouraging emotional literacy helps them build strong relationships and navigate challenges effectively.

3. Modeling Respectful Behavior: The book teaches that modeling respectful and compassionate behavior is vital. As a parent, your actions and words set the tone for how young men should treat others, including women and peers.

4. Encouraging Vulnerability: You discover that encouraging boys to be vulnerable can strengthen their resilience. Allowing them to express their fears and insecurities fosters a sense of safety and trust

5. Challenging Societal Norms: De Beyer discusses the importance of challenging societal stereotypes about masculinity. Encouraging boys to question traditional norms can help them develop their authentic selves.

6. Promoting Empathy: You learn that teaching empathy is essential for healthy relationships. Encouraging boys to consider others' feelings and perspectives fosters kindness and connection.

7. Setting Boundaries: The book emphasizes that setting clear and consistent boundaries is important. Establishing expectations helps boys understand accountability and the consequences of their actions.

8. Encouraging Independence: You discover that promoting independence is crucial for personal growth. Allowing boys to make choices and learn from their mistakes fosters confidence and self-reliance.

9. Nurturing Interests and Passions: De Beyer teaches that supporting boys in exploring their interests and passions is vital. Encouraging creativity and curiosity helps them develop a sense of identity and purpose.

10. Building a Supportive Community: Finally, you are reminded that creating a network of supportive adults and peers is invaluable. Surrounding boys with positive influences can provide guidance and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of growing up.

50 TOP MOTIVATIONAL TALKS AND MOVIES

50 TOP MOTIVATIONAL TALKS AND MOVIES EVERY YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR SHOULD WATCH OR SEE

I. MOTIVATIONAL MOVIES FOR ENTREPRENEURS

1. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS

Based on the life of Chris Gardner, this film teaches resilience, sacrifice, and never giving up despite hardship.

2. JOY

A real-life story of a woman who overcomes countless obstacles to build a business empire from a single invention.

3. THE SOCIAL NETWORK

Tells the story of how Facebook was born, filled with lessons on vision, innovation, competition, and betrayal.

4. JOBS

A biopic of Steve Jobs. It inspires creativity, attention to detail, and the entrepreneurial spirit of changing the world.

5. THE FOUNDER

The story of how McDonald's became a global brand. It challenges you to think about systems, scalability, and strategy.

6. MONEYBALL

Shows how innovation and data can disrupt traditional industries. A must-watch for data-driven entrepreneurs

7. THE WOLF OF WALL STREET

Though controversial, it teaches about ambition, risk-taking, sales mastery, and also the consequences of greed

8. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

Portrays intelligence, adaptability, and thinking outside the box—even though the character used his skills wrongly, it still inspires innovation.

9. SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

Encourages belief in destiny, survival, and the power of past experiences to shape future success.

10. LIMITLESS

Though fictional, it pushes young minds to think about maximizing potential and breaking mental limitations.

11. THE BIG SHORT

Explains financial systems, risk analysis, and seizing opportunity when others see crisis.

12. ROCKY (Series)

Great for learning about grit, determination, and rising after every fall.

13. A BEAUTIFUL MIND

Shows the power of focus, the mind, and persistence despite internal battles.

14. WHIPLASH

Teaches the brutal cost of mastery and how far one can go to achieve greatness.

15. THE INTERN

Explores intergenerational learning, innovation in startups, and humility in leadership.

16. THE AVIATOR

Based on Howard Hughes' life. It teaches obsession with quality, risk, innovation, and mental health in entrepreneurship.

17. OCTOBER SKY

Inspires dreamers to rise above limitations of environment, background, or expectations.

18. HIDDEN FIGURES

True story of African-American women mathematicians who helped launch NASA missions. It teaches breaking barriers, focus, and teamwork.

19. THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND

True story of a Malawian boy who brought electricity to his village through sheer will and creativity.

20. CHEF

Follows a man who quits his job and builds his own food truck business. Lessons in reinvention, passion, and starting over.

21. FORREST GUMP

Packed with lessons on focus, obedience to divine timing, resilience, and taking opportunities

22. THE GREATEST SHOWMAN

Teaches branding, marketing, bold thinking, and dreaming big even from nothing.

23. RUSH

Lessons in competitiveness, branding, excellence, and mental toughness.

24. YES MAN

Encourages openness to new opportunities and breaking comfort zones.

25. CONCUSSION

Teaches boldness in standing for truth, especially when challenging big systems.

II. MOTIVATIONAL TALKS AND DOCUMENTARIES FOR ENTREPRENEURS

26. HOW GREAT LEADERS INSPIRE ACTION – SIMON SINEK (TED TALK)

Introduces the concept of the “Golden Circle” – why some brands lead while others follow.

27. STAY HUNGRY, STAY FOOLISH – STEVE JOBS (STANFORD COMMENCEMENT)

Jobs’ famous speech about following your heart, embracing failure, and staying curious.

28. YOUR BODY LANGUAGE MAY SHAPE WHO YOU ARE – AMY CUDDY (TED TALK)

Helps entrepreneurs build confidence through body posture and presence.

29. WHY DO WE FALL – MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO BY TEAM FEARLESS

A short but powerful video that emphasizes perseverance in the face of failure.

30. THE MINDSET OF HIGH ACHIEVERS – TOM BILYEU (IMPACT THEORY)

Encourages discipline, daily routine, and self-mastery.

31. NEVER GIVE UP – Denzel Washington (MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH)

Classic speech on the importance of faith, failure, and moving forward.

32. HOW TO MAKE STRESS YOUR FRIEND – KELLY MCGONIGAL (TED TALK)

Reframes stress as a necessary part of growth, not a threat.

33. BILL GATES’ 11 RULES OF LIFE – (FROM HIS SPEECHES TO STUDENTS)

Practical truths for success, rarely taught in school.

34. THE POWER OF BELIEF – EDUARDO BRICENO (TED TALK)

Teaches the growth mindset and how to unlock potential.

35. THE POWER OF VISION – LES BROWN

One of the most respected motivational speakers on having and holding on to a vision.

36. I AM NOT YOUR GURU – TONY ROBBINS (NETFLIX)

Behind-the-scenes of Tony Robbins’ seminars. Shows how belief systems can be shattered and rebuilt

37. BECOMING WARREN BUFFETT (HBO DOCUMENTARY)

Details Buffett’s life, his habits, and his approach to decision-making and investment.

38. INSIDE BILL’S BRAIN – DECODING BILL GATES (NETFLIX)

Shows how Gates solves problems and what drives him beyond business.

39. START WITH WHY – SIMON SINEK (FULL TALK)

Goes deeper into why the “Why” behind your business is more powerful than what you do.

40. MOTIVATION GRID – YOUTUBE SERIES BY MATI ILIEV

Powerful and regularly updated motivational videos from top achievers.

41. BOUNCE BACK – ERIC THOMAS

Powerful lesson on overcoming rock bottom and rising with purpose.

42. NO EXCUSES – GARY VAYNERCHUK

Raw and brutally honest advice for entrepreneurs to stop waiting and start doing.

43. LIFE LESSONS FROM 100-YEAR-OLDS – DOCUMENTARY

Lessons on patience, simplicity, focus, and long-term vision.

44. WHY I LEFT GOOGLE TO PURSUE MY DREAM – LEILA JANAH (TEDx)

Encourages leaving comfort for purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

45. DREAM – MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO BY PRINCE EA

Challenges the youth to chase dreams with full passion.

46. WHAT'S YOUR WHY? – INKY JOHNSON

Explores personal purpose, hardship, and perseverance.

47. 5 MINUTES FOR THE NEXT 50 YEARS OF YOUR LIFE – INKY JOHNSON

Ideal for moments of doubt. Packed with fire and faith-based motivation.

48. IF YOU’RE GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING – WILLIAM WINSTON (MOTIVATIONAL)

Encouragement to never settle or stop in tough seasons.

49. ACT OR ACCEPT – MEL ROBBINS

Explains how to break procrastination with the 5-second rule.

50. UNBROKEN – LOUIS ZAMPERINI (DOCUMENTARY AND MOVIE)

Story of survival, discipline, and transformation. A perfect example of the entrepreneurial journey.

Tips to book flight tickets for a cheaper price

 To book flight tickets cheaper:

1. Book on Tuesday or Wednesday 

2. Avail discounts by using certain bank credit cards  (e.g., HDFC, SBI, ICICI often have deals).

3. Book minimum 21 days in advance for national cities

4. Book minimum 11 to 12 weeks in advance for international destinations

5. Compare the prices in the following websites

Skyscanner

Google Flight

6. If you have searched earlier for the same date and destinations, first

Delete the cookies. Airline software will offer high price tickets based on

The earlier searchings.

7. You can choose a nearest small destination than the main international airport.

For example, if one wants to go to London, he will select Heathrow Airport.

Instead you can try Manchester and catch a train (Many times it will be cheaper.

Anyhow, check up the prices)

8. Avail the extra miles benefits offered by airlines (based on earlier travels through the same airlines)

MakeMyTrip

• Popular for domestic and international flight bookings.

• Offers discounts, wallet cashback, and coupons.

Goibibo

• Known for good deals, GoCash rewards, and last-minute offers.

Yatra

• Offers Yatra eCash, special discounts for students, senior citizens, and armed forces.

Cleartrip

• Clean interface and often runs coupon-based promotions.

Ixigo

• Compares multiple airlines and travel sites; known for budget-friendly options.

EaseMyTrip

• No convenience fee on flight bookings (often cheaper than others).

Akasa Air, IndiGo, Air India Express

• Booking directly from low-cost airlines can sometimes be cheaper.

Use incognito mode when searching flights.

Dealing with an emotionally unresponsive partner

This situation can be challenging and frustrating. Understanding their emotional barriers is crucial for a healthier relationship. Here is how can deal with such situation

Do a self-check first

Reflect on your own emotional availability. Are you truly prepared to enter into a relationship where you can be vulnerable and authentic? For instance, reflect on whether you have ever been emotionally unavailable yourself because of past experiences.

Communicate your feelings

Express your emotions using "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example, say, "I feel sad when we don't talk about our day," rather than blaming them for being unresponsive.

Understand the root cause

Identify the underlying issues that may cause emotional distance. Discuss your needs for emotional support and explore any unresolved conflicts that may be affecting your connection. If past disagreements linger, address them openly.

Resolve past disputes

Discuss any unresolved issues from the past that may lead to emotional unavailability. If a previous argument was never fully resolved, revisit it calmly to promote healing.

Create rituals for connection

Set up routine activities that build emotional closeness, like date nights or shared hobbies. For example, you can plan a monthly outing that you both enjoy in order to deepen your bond.

Understand your partner's needs

Understand what your partner needs. Engage in conversations around their likes and dislikes. Ask them how they love to be shown affection or support.

Give them space

Give your partner time to process his or her emotions without any pressure. Avoid ultimatums and respect their pace. If they need some alone time after a fight, then honor that need.>

Be Patient

Understand that change requires time for you and your partner. Be gentle in reminding them of your needs while giving them space to open up at their own pa

ce. Check in occasionally without forcing them to respond immediately

Self Care

Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Take a walk or spend some time with your friends to recharge emotionally

Seek professional help if needed

If progress stalls, consider couple’s therapy for guidance. A therapist can provide tools for better communication and help address deeper issues.

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑭𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑭𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔

Ever wonder why some people rise stronger after failure while others feel stuck? The secret lies in how we approach challenges.

Here are 7 powerful lessons to turn setbacks into stepping stones:

🔹 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐬 – Every failure is a setup for a comeback.

🔹 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 – See adversity as an opportunity, not a roadblock.

🔹 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐮𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 – Change your strategy, not your goal.

🔹 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐭 & 𝐅𝐥𝐞𝐱𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 – Push forward but know when to pivot.

🔹 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 – See them as lessons, not losses.

🔹 𝐍𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 – The toughest experiences hold the biggest lessons.

🔹 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 – Your environment shapes your success.

💡 The mindset you choose today will shape the success you experience tomorrow.