Chapter two - Resuming from where we left


A few days ago, we went to Gokarna — you know, that magical place where the mountains meet the sea. During a trek on a steep mountain path surrounded by the samandar (sea), we bumped into a couple who were clearly struggling to keep their balance. That was Himanshu and Kanika, both from Delhi. Himanshu, 45, is a creative head with over 20 years of experience in advertising — and I admit, I googled him later because I was curious, and turns out, Google knows him! Kamna is sweet, smart & a content head for famous beauty brand.

We ended up sitting together, having a fun chat about life, work, dreams — just the usual “what’s going on with you?” kind of talk. They shared their stories, and we shared ours. It was refreshing to see life through their eyes, and I guess they got a glimpse of how I see things too.

Many of you know I love writing — sometimes I hit you all with long, annoying paragraphs about how I feel about you; sometimes quirky one-liners; a few of you have read my poems or my unique style of writing gossip. But honestly? I never took writing seriously as a passion. I always thought that feeling would just fade away. Weird, right?

Well, this trip sparked something new. I’m restarting my blog — this is Chapter 2 of that journey.


The Call That Changed Things

A few days after Gokarna, Himanshu called me out of the blue. He was starting an online creative class focused on making killer spec ads — basically, ads you create to showcase your talent. I was curious but skeptical, juggling a full-time job and all. Could I make the time?

I started Batch 1, and guess what? I became one of his favorite students!  (I know, I’m shamelessly proud of being “teacher's pet”)

Then came Batch 2 — a group full of people with 5-10 years of advertising experience. Suddenly, I felt like I didn’t belong. I started doubting myself. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I was in the wrong room. That feeling of “I’m lost” hit me hard.

I froze for a day, unsure if I should continue.


The Conversation That Pulled Me Back

I told Himanshu exactly how I felt:

“I don’t feel I’m in the right room. I feel lost.”

His response was classic Himanshu — kind, real, and motivating:

“You’re welcome! Aise hi positive attitude rakho. I always love your confidence and courage. Maintain that.

Remember, there are many rooms where you will feel out of place because everyone is better than you at something. Happens to me all the time.

But remember, doosron se apne ko compare nahi karna hai. Sirf seekhna hai. Hum log iss dharti pe seekhne ke liye aaye hain.

Never be unhappy at any failure, because whether you win or lose, you are always learning. So actually, you are always winning.”

I read those words over and over. They struck a chord. We’re all here to learn, not to compete. Growth is the real win.


Burning the Midnight Oil

Fueled by his encouragement, I sat down after work one night and worked till 2 a.m. on an assignment — a Maggi ad. Simple, honest, and from the heart.

Today, Himanshu called me again and told me something incredible: during a one of his brand meeting, my ad was the highlight. The whole team loved it. Still I'm trying to process, those words motivated me.

I’m still trying to figure out what exactly made it so special. Maybe it’s just that I gave it my genuine best.

Here's that advertisement for all of you, do share what you liked about it in comments:


Why Am I Sharing This?

Because life is full of surprises. You never know which encounter, which moment, will change your path.

The moral of the story?

Travel as much as possible because you never know what life unfolds for you, Explore. Pick up those hobbies you pushed aside. Whether it’s photography, drawing which connects you with your childhood, horse riding you always wanted to try, fashion designing which was always your dream,treking to connect with nature or sports — now is the perfect time.

At our age, with so many responsibilities, the most important responsibility which we forget is to spend time with yourself. Doing what you love. Cherishing your inner child.

So here’s to new beginnings and chasing passion — welcome to Chapter 2 of my blog.

Stay tunned for for every Thursday, readers.

— Shubhada


Comments

  1. Nice shubhada keep it up 🫶🏻

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  2. Hi Shubhada, Himanshu here. Thanks for this lovely write up. I'm happy I was able to give you some courage to try. Personally, I think that's what life is all about. We are all trying - trying to learn and grow. And sometimes, we stop the process out of fear. That's when it becomes important that someone give us some motivation, some encouragement. As you live your life, there will be times when someone will be encouraging you. And there will be times when you will be encouraging others. When we were children, our parents were always encouraging us. Nowadays, as my parents are ageing, I am constantly encouraging them. This is the circle of life. And sometimes I think this is what life is all about. Best of luck for this blog. Write great things. Make us think! Be honest and share your thoughts openly. Because your honest thoughts will definitely touch other people, maybe even help them. Take care. And I will be following this blog :)

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  3. Good experience. Perfectly showcased

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  4. Nice one as usual

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  5. Good one my favourite ❤️

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