Tag: Human Behaviour & Human Dignity

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Coffee Conquest: How Nestlé Brewed a Cultural Revolution in Japan

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

During the 1970s in Japan, tea was the leading beverage, while coffee struggled to gain acceptance, despite Nestlé's strong marketing efforts. To address this challenge, Nestlé brought on psychoanalyst Clotaire Rapaille, who proposed focusing on children to create a positive link to coffee. The company introduced coffee-flavoured snacks, gradually introducing a generation to the drink. By the 1980s, this approach turned coffee into a cultural mainstay and contributed to Nestlé's success in Japan.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Perils of Marathon Work Hours: Lessons for Corporate India

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

Recently, Narayana Murthy and S.N. Subrahmanyan sparked controversy by advocating for extended work hours, suggesting a 70- and 90-hour workweek, respectively. Their remarks highlight a disconnect between corporate leaders and employees enduring familial and logistical pressures. Critics argue that longer hours hinder productivity and well-being, advocating for work-life balance and a reassessment of corporate cultures to prioritize employee satisfaction and efficiency.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Power of “No”: How Learning to Say It Changed the Work Life

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

Anand, an Assistant Manager at a bank, struggled to say "no" at work, leading to overwhelm and burnout. After a wake-up call from his boss, he learned to prioritize, delegate, and set boundaries. Saying "no" empowered him to manage time and energy effectively, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Office Tiger: A Tale of Overlooked Importance

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

The office hummed with morning activity as employees began their day. Unbeknownst to them, a tiger sought refuge in the washroom, unnoticed for four days. It went unnoticed until it seized and ate the Assistant General Manager, then the General Manager and Vice President. When it captured the tea boy, Chhotu, the office was thrown into chaos. Employees found the tiger and saved Chhotu, highlighting the overlooked importance of every role in the workplace.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Assumption Trap: A Midnight Call

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

Dr. Lucas, a renowned surgeon, encountered a surprising situation when Mr. Ahmed sought urgent medical help for his wife. Despite assuming it was the same wife, it turned out to be Mr. Ahmed's second wife. This story emphasizes the dangers of assumptions and offers valuable lessons: verify before acting, communicate clearly, stay open-minded, and avoid overconfidence. It serves as a reminder to actively ask questions, listen, and reflect to avoid assumptions.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Great Goel Sahib & the Canine Catastrophe

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

Goel Sahib, a retired bank manager, found himself in a predicament with a fractured leg and a barrage of unsolicited medical advice. His visitors offered remedies including goat's hooves soup, sheep's milk massages, and visits to the crematorium. Despite the confusion, Goel decided to follow his doctor's advice and avoid black dogs while riding a scooter for a quicker return to his beloved treats.

Leadership Journeys & Strategic Insights

Trapped in the Toxicity: Why Employees Stay in Bad Jobs

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

Many employees find themselves trapped in toxic work environments due to financial dependence, fear of the unknown, loyalty, hope for improvement, specialized skills, supportive colleagues, and misjudging the toxicity. Sarah, a trade finance manager, experienced these struggles, but ultimately prioritized her well-being and left for a healthier work environment. Her journey serves as a reminder of the complexities and courage involved in leaving toxic jobs for long-term happiness and success.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Mrs. Rastogi Syndrome: A Tale of Quirky Habits and Endearing Memories

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

The "Mrs. Rastogi Syndrome" involves individuals speaking about their spouse's workplace as if it were their own. This behaviour has now resurfaced in a WhatsApp group. It's a humorous quirk that highlights the unique and endearing ways in which people blend their lives with their loved ones. The syndrome brings a touch of colour to interactions, creating opportunities for shared laughter and reminiscence.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Lizard Who Thought He Held Up the Castle

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

In the heart of Grimstone castle, Leonard the self-important lizard believed he was the sole reason for the castle's stability. Tourists and Nigel, a guide, exaggerated his role, but the truth was the diligent maintenance crew that kept the castle together. Leonard's unwavering belief in his importance served as a reminder that harmless delusion can add a touch of magic to everyday life.

Reflections, Ideas & Perspectives

The Names We Carry: A Glimpse into Rural Banking in India

Indrajit Roy Choudhury

In the banking sector, I encountered unforgettable names and stories, each reflecting people's lives. Quirky names like Boroline Bibi and Sheikh Boroplus, and peculiar expressions became part of everyday life. Meeting customers in rural branches showed me the real India, facing prejudices and hardship but also resilience and hope. Names are more than identifiers; they are stories and burdens, shaping a larger narrative of culture and humanity.