You know how many languages have those words that aren’t easily translatable, that stand for something very specific to that culture. If I had to pick a word like that for Hindi, it would be jugaad.
Jugaad is a colloquial Hindi and Punjabi word that can mean an innovative fix or a simple work-around, used for solutions that bend rules, or a resource that can be used as such, or a person who can solve a complicated issue. This video by Exide Life does show the way many of us think – we take pride in our jugaadu ways. And while there’s nothing wrong with being clever & resourceful, it’s important to know that a quick fix cannot make up for a long term solution.
In 2015 I achieved a lot of goals in my professional life. I worked harder than I worked in years, but as a result some areas of my life suffered more. I told myself I would get fit last year, bought fitness gear, went to the gym all of four times & that was that. I found myself working harder towards fitness just before I had something big coming up, like a beach holiday. I told myself it was ok if I slacked today, my vacation is a two months away & I can start next week. Then the next week I probably went to the gym once, felt very good about myself that day & the next day it was back to same old lazy me.
I realized more than anything that the fault was with my attitude. I was taking working towards a short term goal, making all the excuses & taking all the short cuts possible. If I truly wanted to get fit, I had to think about making a lifestyle change & a concrete plan for once. Not working towards looking good on one holiday but instead working towards a fitter, healthier, happier me. Something more holistic.
So this year I’m going to make time for myself & my fitness goals. I’m starting with achievable steps. I can surely invest half an hour to myself thrice a week – I will see the results. Not in a week, maybe not in a month too but in the end it will pay off.
This is an attitude I’ll be taking towards my personal finances as well – Exide Life has convinced me to not take any more shortcuts, the only way I can ensure long term financial success is to plan for it from right away.
Did you make any changes in 2016? What are some areas of your life you will be taking #NoMoreShortcuts in?
