Screens Without a Sermon

I've been thinking about the perennial tug-of-war between parents and children over smartphones. It's a topic that comes up frequently, whether I'm advising ...

Siblings, Cousins, and Comparison

I've been thinking a lot about siblings and cousins lately, especially in the context of comparison. It's such a common practice in Indian families, a kind ...

Marks, Tuition, and the Fear of Falling Behind

I've been thinking about the pressure we place on our children with marks, tuition, and the ever-looming fear of falling behind. It's a fear that's all too f...

Autonomy Inside an Indian Home

Autonomy Inside an Indian Home Last week, I found myself in a heated discussion with a dear friend over a cup of chai. She was lamenting the rebellious strea...

The Swing Between Harshness and Guilt

I was sitting at my desk yesterday, gazing out the window, when I was reminded of a conversation I had with a parent a few weeks ago. They were distraught, c...

Limits Without Humiliation

I've been reflecting on the intricate dance of parenting and the distinct line between setting limits and inflicting humiliation. This is a topic that resona...

Acknowledge Without Agreeing

I've been thinking about the way we, as parents and mentors, often misinterpret what it means to truly acknowledge someone else's feelings. It's a lesson I k...

Feelings Are Not Orders

I've been thinking about Myra, a six-year-old I watched at a wedding in Jaipur. She clung to her father like a lifeline, refusing to join the other children ...

The Parent as Coach

I've been reflecting on the role of parents in nurturing their children, particularly in the context of the Indian upbringing many of us are familiar with. G...

How to Use This Handbook

I've been thinking a lot about the role we play as parents, educators, and even investors. It strikes me that the principles guiding each of these roles over...