Day105: “You need to learn how to select your thoughts just the same way you select your clothes every day. This is a power you can cultivate. If you want to control things in your life so bad, work on the mind. That's the only thing you should be trying to control.” ― Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love

Thursday, 31 Jan 2013; 10:40pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

I feel so tired after long office hours. Retiring to bed ..... :)

Before that, sharing this inspirational video, hope you would like it:

Quick update on M-70: Today (M4W15D42) - Weight: 76.5 Kg; 20 min of Cardios (Treadmill, Elliptical Machine), 20 min of abs and Weights (Biceps and Triceps).

Good Night All of you!!

Narendra Gupta
10:55pm

Day104: The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly. —Jim Rohn

Wed/Thu, 30/31 Jan 2013; 12:01am

Electronic City, Bangalore

This morning I was listening to the audio book  'The Leader who had no title' by Mr. Robin Sharma. It says, you need no title, you need not be in a leadership position to become a LEADER. I was moved listening to the housekeeping lady, one of the characters in the book, who says that her work (Cleaning the floor, other house keeping stuff) is the best work in the world, she adores her work and feels like singing, dancing, she is so happy while doing her work. Even the CEO and the bigger stars look for her and wants to be in her company. She is a true inspiration to the people who keep on complaining about their work. Before doing my Masters (MS in Management), I used to tell my friends, let me become a Manager, then I will lead with zero motivation in the work I was doing. My Fake and utterly False Statements. Lots of lessons for you Narendra! Its time to change mindset, 'The Leader who had no Title', a truly inspirational saga, I would highly recommend this book to each one of you, will come up with the summary of the book sometimes in February.

In the meanwhile, slow and steady progress in M70 continues. It was the 41st day at Gym today (M4W15D41). I have already started doing some exercises for my muscles complemented with abdominal exercises and 20 minutes of Cardios. Okay that's all for the day, now switching to the remaining commitments before going to bed. Good Night to my Readers. Hope you are doing exceptionally well in your Lives wherever you are.

Narendra Gupta

12:32am

Day103: I've been on a diet for two weeks and all I've lost is fourteen days. ~Totie Fields

Tuesday, 29 Jan 2013; 11:45pm
Electronic city, Bangalore

Healthy Tips: It is equally important to eat before Workout!

I took rest from workouts on an easy going day at work today. Enjoyed the 'payasam', Chocolates and Cakes  by  Divya, a lovely girl from the AR2000 Team.

Good Night!!

Narendra Gupta
11:47pm

Day102: The one way to get thin is to re-establish a purpose in life. ~Cyril Connolly, The Unquiet Grave

Monday, 28  Jan 2013; 11:50pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

After break and little slowdown last week, I went for workouts today (M70: M4W15D40) starting with Cardios followed by some muscle building exercises and abs. I have started taking Protein supplements after workouts, am paying more attention to the timing of my meals now. And Yes, Books, Internet has helped me gather lot of info to remain on track to achieve my Goal of a Fit, Toned Body.

Here's one link which you might like:

Interested-losing-weight??

                                                                                                            (Courtesy: http://www.nutrition.gov/)


Hope you liked reading the artice. Good Night Friends!!


Narendra Gupta
11:55pm

Day101: Let there be work, bread, WATER and salt for all. Nelson Mandela

Sunday, 27 Jan 2013; 11:10pm

Electronic City, Bangalore

Today, I was reading the Chapter on 'Nutrients' in Rujuta's Book. Prior to reading 'Don't Lose Your Mind, LOSE YOUR WEIGHT', I had a vague knowledge on different nutrients, their sources, and the importance they keep in maintaining our fitness level. The 'chapter' for carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fibres was of least importance and a closed one for me after reading them in my Biology book in Std 6-7 (during childhood days). I was (until this moment) most ignorant person on earth about the paramount importance these nutrients keep in our body. I will pen my insights from the book in my Book summary, next weekend. For now, I wish to discuss briefly on one nutrient, the most important one without which it is difficult to think even of survival. Yes, you guessed it right. WATER!

" Water is the most important nutrient in our body for survival. It is the primary transporter of nutrients in the body without which we cannot even use the nutrients that come from carbs, proteins and fats. About 70% of human body is water. We can survive up to 5 weeks without food but less than 5 days without water. How much water should we drink? Drink enough water so that our urine is always crystal clear, not light yellow, dark yellow or reddish. There are many ways in which water escapes from the body - urine, stool, sweating, breathing. The only ways to hydrate ourselves is by sipping water all the time and by eating wholesome unprocessed food. Water is LIFE." 

                                                              Rujuta Diwekar, Don't Lose your Mind, LOSE YOUR WEIGHT

Here are Top 10 benefits of Drinking Water:

1. Weight Loss: 

Drinking water helps you lose weight better then anything else in the world. Water flushes down the by-products of fat breakdown. Drinking water can also reduce hunger and acts as an appetite suppressant so you’ll eat less. Water has also has zero calories.

2. Have Healthier Skin and Look Younger

When your skin is properly hydrated you will always look younger. Water helps to replenish skin tissues, moisturizes skin and increase the elasticity in your skin.

3. Natural Remedy for Headaches and Migraines

Water helps relieve headaches and back pains. These are sometimes caused by dehydration and replenishing your body with water can help. Although there are many other reasons contribute to headaches and migraines, dehydration is the common one.

4. Better Productivity

Your brain consists of 90% water so drinking more can improve your productivity at work and in doing other tasks. It helps you think better, be more alert, and helps make you concentrate a lot better.

 5. Better Exercise

Drinking water regulates your body temperature throughout the day. You will feel a lot more energy when performing exercises and water also helps to fuel your muscles.

6. Helps in Digestion and Constipation

Drinking water boosts your metabolism because it helps your digestive system work properly. Fiber and water goes hand in hand so that you can have your daily bowel movement.

7. Less Cramps, Sprains, and Injuries

Proper hydration helps keep your joints and muscles lubricated, so you’ll less likely get cramps and sprains.

8. Less Likely to Get Sick and Feel Healthy

Drinking plenty of water helps fight ailments like the flu, kidney stones, and heart attack. Water mixed with lemon is used primarily for ailments like respiratory disease, intestinal problems, rheumatism and arthritis etc. Drinking water also improves our immune system.

9. Relieves Fatigue

Water is used by the body to help flush out toxins and waste products that the body doesn’t need. If your body lacks of water your heart will need to work a lot harder to pump out the oxygenated blood to all cells. Same goes for the rest of your vital organs, your organs will be exhausted and so will you.

10. It Puts You in A Good Mood

Water makes your body feel good and gives you more energy. Your body will communicate with your brain and tell it that it’s happy.

                                                                             (Courtesy: www.eatcleanlivehealthy.com)

WHEN to Drink WATER

Correct Time to Drink Water….Very Important…

This is interesting!! I knew you need your minimum water to flush the toxins out of your body, but this was news to me.

Drinking water at certain time maximizes it’s effectiveness on the body:

2 glasses of water after waking up – helps activate internal organs.

1 glass of water 30 minutes before a meal – helps digestion.

1 glass of water before taking a bath – helps lower blood pressure.

1 glass of water before going to bed – avoids stroke or heart attack.

                                                                                         (Courtesy: http://rishikajain.com/)

Although there is no hard and fast rule on timings, these timings (mentioned above) however boosts up the associated physical activity and processes. These are simple facts which we often ignore. I thought revisiting these basic fundas to healthy living would be worthwhile. This Sunday, I spent few hours at office, apart from resting and cooking in the evening.

I wish all of you a great, worthwhile week ahead. Do 'Lead without Title'.

Good Night.

Narendra Gupta

11:45pm

Day100(ii): Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. ~World Health Organization, 1948

Saturday, 26 Jan 2013; 11:00pm

Electronic City, Bangalore

Yesterday, I (deliberately) took day's rest from the Electronic media (Laptop, internet in my case) after work. I was invited by my neighbor, entrepreneur friend, Dileep for dinner earlier in the evening, so left work by 9:15 pm, taking out some time for society and friends. Delicious and Tasty (Chicken) dinner it was. Thanks and Kudos to Dileep and Bhabhi Jee for all their prowess (at Kitchen, this time). I went for sleeping (around 11pm) after having dinner (as suggested by Wifey over phone, to refrain from my late rising habit). What a lovely thing that was to do, (as a result) this morning I got up at 4:35am and you know, Getting up early is the best thing one can gift to him/herself. After spending some time over reading a book, I went for a morning walk, I felt the (fresh) nature, I felt energized like never before, cherished and enjoyed my leisurely walk. I spent the rest of the day at peace with self.

Yes, while I rested today, I did 30 push-ups in the evening before going out for Walk (actually Shopping). I bought a  (green) vegetable (it was a first timer for me) called 'Chouchou' (that is what I heard local people saying, I really don't know its english or hindi name). It looked like the elder brother of guava (from outside) and later when I was slicing it down for preparing curry, it looked like younger brother of Papaya. I hoped it doesn't taste like papaya (else it would also be the last time). I did all I could (as a Cook) to make it tasty and believe me it was not bad. Different vegetables have different nutrient content required for proper nourishment of the body and thinking this only, I risked the (unknown for me) vegetable which was a good and successful risk. Certainly.

Basic Tip of the Day:

The best six doctors anywhere
And no one can deny it
Are sunshine, water, rest, and air
Exercise and diet.
These six will gladly you attend
If only you are willing
Your mind they'll ease
Your will they'll mend
And charge you not a shilling.

                                            ~Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields, What the River Knows, 1990

I hope you all agree on this. Tomorrow is working day for me,so retiring to bed for now.

Good Night all of you!!

Narendra Gupta

11:15pm

Day 100(i): Wishing you all a very Happy Republic Day. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat!!

वतन हमारा ऐसा कोई ना छोड पाये ,
रिश्ता हमारा ऐसा कोई न तोड़ पाये ,
दिल एक है  जान एक है हमारी ,
हिन्दुस्तान हमारा है यह शान हैं हमारी।
गणतंत्र दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनायें ।
                                                                                                                  (-Writer Unknown)

भारत माता की सदेव जयकार हो।।

नरेन्द्र गुप्ता


                       

Day99:My advice if you insist on slimming: Eat as much as you like - just don't swallow it. ~Harry Secombe

Thu/Fri, 24/25 Jan 2013; 12:30am
Electronic City, Bangalore

I have been feeling (somewhat) weak for past few days. In spite of making regularly to Gym, taking (sufficient) food on time, instead of feeling better, I am not feeling so good about about my fitness. What's wrong Narendra??

Okay. Here's a very important lesson for me (and all of you who plan for workouts and want to see positive development in your fitness standards):

" During any form of Exercise, the body and specifically our muscles go through microscopic wear and tear. Loss of muscle tissue and its breakdown is associated with ageing and the one thing that will turn exercise into an anti-ageing activity is Protein. Proteins are made up of amino acids which help us repair our tissues and recover from the stress that exercise places on our body. Post Exercise the body needs some fast carbs (High GI) and a quick supply of amino acids. I would go to the extent of saying that if you can't arrange for your post workout meal to have Protein and high GI Carb, you are better off not working out."

                                                               Rujuta Diwekar, Don't Lose your Mind, LOSE YOUR WEIGHT.

I probably need to work in this regard (Post Workout Meal) to be at a better position. Well!, now that I understand the reason, I will take that 'indispensable' Protein and High GI Carb food without any miss (I cannot afford to). 

Today (M70: M4W14D39) it was another long day at work, and yes, I went to Gym but did mild workouts only for about half-an hour. 

These are the times of hardships, of struggles and patience but I know I am going to make it. My journey to attaining a fit, toned body continues......

Narendra Gupta

12:45am

Day98: Thou shouldst eat to live, not live to eat. ~Cicero, Rhetoricorum LV

Wednesday, 23 Jan 2013; 11:45pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

I took a day's rest from Workouts today. I was feeling lack of energy and lethargic through out the day and was most reluctant to do any work, thankfully there was network outage for 2 hours which I used to Chillax.

I leave two beautiful poems related to diet (which I found on internet, though could not trace the writer for credit...)

A Diet Poem

My soul is ripped with riot
incited by my wicked diet.
"We Are What We Eat," said a wise old man!
and, if that's true, I'm a garbage can.

I want to rise and feel good that's plain!
but at my present weight, I'll need a crane.
So grant me strength, that I may not fall
into the clutches of cholesterol.

May my flesh with carrot sticks be sated,
that my soul may be poly-unsaturated
And show me the light, that I may bear witness
to the President's Council on Physical Fitness.

And at oleomargarine I'll never mutter,
for the road to Plumpness is spread with butter.
And cream is cursed; and cake is awful;
and evil is hiding in every waffle.

Mephistopheles lurks in provolone;
the bane is in each slice of baloney,
Fat hides in a chocolate drop,
and sugar is in a lollipop.

Give me this day my daily slice
but, cut it thin and toast it twice.
I beg upon my dimpled knees,
deliver me from jujubees.

And when my days of trial are done,
and my war with malted milk is won,
Let me stand with the model throng,
In a shining robe--size 5-6 long.

I can do it friend, If you'll show to me,
the virtues of lettuce and celery.
If you'll teach me the evil of mayonnaise,
of pasta a la Milannaise
potatoes a la Lyonnaise
and crisp-fried chicken from the South.


--------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------
A Dieters Poem.... Dont quit!

DONT QUIT

When you've eaten too much and you can't write it down,
And you feel like the biggest failure in town.
When you want to give up just because you gave in,
And forgot all about being healthy and thin.
So what! you went over your allowance a bit.
It's your next move that counts....SO DON'T YOU QUIT!

It's a moment of truth, it's attitude and change.
It's learning the skills to get back in your range.
It's telling yourself 'you've done great up till' now',
You can take on this challenge and beat it somehow.

It's part of your journey toward reaching your goal.
You're still gonna' make it, just stay in control.
To stumble and fall is not a disgrace,
If you summon the will to get back in the race.
But often the struggler's, when losing their grip,
Just throw in the towel and continue to slip...

SO DON'T YOU QUIT!!!
                                                                                                  (-Unknown)

Hope you liked it. Calling it a day.

Good Night Everyone!!

Narendra Gupta
11:55pm

Day97: There is no diet that will do what eating Healthy does!!

Tue/Wed, 22/23 Jan 2013; 12:45am
Electronic City, Bangalore

It's been a 'loooong' and tiring day. This evening I received my Protein supplement from HealthCart (HC); Quick Service, Thank you HC. I went for workouts doing (as-usual) Cardios and Abs, staying focused on reducing belly (extra) fat today (M70-M4W14D38).

 

Good Night Everyone!!

Narendra Gupta
12:48am

Day96: Your stomach shouldn't be a waist basket. ~Author Unknown

Mon/Tue, 21/22 Jan 2013; 12:02am
Electronic City, Bangalore

As promised earlier, this week I would focus on the importance of taking right food and the role it plays in shaping up our health. I thus declare this Week (21-27 Jan 2013) as the DIET* Week. So, when I say Diet, I have no intention to recommend going on a FAST or restricting food and punishing yourself. Whenever I say DIET, it would mean "Healthy and the Right food" which would help me (us) in remaining fit. The contribution of Food and Exercise towards remaining FIT and Healthy is 70:30. Yes 70% - Food and 30% Exercise. There is a famous saying - "You ARE what you EAT". Thus, right selection of Food is important, even more than Exercising for being Healthy. I would share my insights on the right food intake in next few days (Insights :P, which I am gaining from Rujuta's masterpiece)

As usual on Mondays, I was feeling lazy and reluctant to go to office this morning. I do not know When?, When will I get up from bed with a zeal and purpose, raring to go to work. The situation 'now' is just the opposite. Anyway :)

I started slow, and steady, by evening I was in good touch at work, putting forward my questions, concerns to the client strongly.  I went for Workouts doing some 40-45 minutes of Running, Cycling, Paddling, Rowing, different abs exercises today (M70-M4W14D37). 

Will see you all tomorrow,

Until then Good bye, Good night

Narendra Gupta

12:15am

DIET WEEK* - Raising Awareness on Food, Food Habits and the Right Mix to implement in personal life and Make M-70 successful.

Day95:The key is in not spending time, but in investing it. Stephen R. Covey

Sunday, 20 Jan 2013; 11:40pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

After a long gap, I got up early (not really, at 7:15am) and gifted my self with a Morning walk. Even at this time, around 7:30am, the air was so fresh, so pure, the cold-breeze was so, so... so pleasant and beautiful, sunrise was such as if it was enlightening the whole being, I savored the nature in the holy hours of the day and on the way enjoyed a hot cup of Tea. What an awesome experience it was. I wonder why do I miss the best hours of the day (have got sick of my late rising habit). I bet, gifting yourself with a Morning walk is the best way to kick start your day. 

After returning from the leisurely, pleasureful walk and while I was reading only the first page of Newspaper, received call from my Onsite Manager and he informed me of the urgency at work. From that moment the rest of the day went in thinking about work and Working at office. In the evening When I came for snacks, I saw people working out at Gym (Gym is just besides the cafeteria) and then quickly I made up my mind to do some 5-10 minutes of Running and then treat myself with some Food. Yes, I ran for 13 minutes on this Sunday (M70 - M4W13D36), alternating between high and low speeds on the Treadmill. I then moved out to grab some(2) (protein-rich) eggs and a Glass of juice and bread-butter Jam...It was a bit heavy though. After signing-off from work (for the day), I walked all the way to home (a distance of approx 4 Kms), just to digest the (heavy) snacks (rather dinner).

4th Week of the Year begins tomorrow onwards. Time flies like any thing. Making best use of time is the key and Sincerely Valuing Time more than money will make us do that.

My Journey to attaining a fit-toned Physique (free from unnecessary fat) continues.....

See you tomorrow!!

Good Night.

Narendra Gupta
11:58pm

Day94: “Those who have no time for healthy eating will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” – Edward Stanley

Saturday, 19 Jan 2013; 11:10pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

I gave complete rest to my Body today. And for the first time ever, after some research over internet and inquiring with Friends, I ordered for economical ISO-Whey proteins, Thanks to Priyanka, Nutrition Specialist at HealthKart. Past few weeks, in spite of taking foods with various nutrients, I have been feeling week, especially after workouts and then only I realized there is certain and more need for proteins and hence the order. As you might be aware, that weight loss is a misnomer, people often lose weight in diseases. It is the (extra) FAT which we (I) intend to lose, aptly it is FAT Loss. 

This weekend, I am reading the beautiful book on WEIGHT LOSS by Rujuta Diwekar. Up-til what I read, she talks about our wrong eating habits and how it impacts adversely on the involuntary organ of our body, the stomach. I would shortly come up with Summary of the book.

Now over to Rujuta's book....

Good Night All of you!!

Narendra Gupta

11:20pm

Day93: Focus on Health, Not Vanity.

Friday, 18 Jan 2013, 11:45pm

Electronic City, Bangalore

Wao!! What a day it had been. I am tired and exhausted yet I feel happy and satisfied. Another busy day at work just passed, hope there is no weekend call for work, its a possibility though. Somehow, I could make time for 15-20 minutes of workout today (M70: M4W13D35). I did what I like the most - Running (15 min) with some Crunches (5min). 

I wish to re-iterate that the purpose of Exercising is to remain fit and healthy and its just not only for showing to the outer world your physique. Although its addressed only for women (in the quote above), it holds equally for all men. The purpose of Exercising is for attaining inner peace and happiness by remaining fit and healthy.

While coming back from office, the 'Autowala' was doing a rash driving and we (I along with 3 co-passengers) survived a probable accident. I was fire at him when he replied negatively to my request of driving slowly. Why such people do not understand their duties and responsibilities, towards his family, towards his customers and their family, towards society, country and above all towards his own-self. It was his duty and responsibility to drive safely and take his passengers to particular destination safely.

Next Week I will focus completely on the importance of Diets (and thereby implementing in personal lifestyle) in staying Fit and healthy on my Daily Gratitude pages.

Only for today,

Good Night and Good Bye!!

12:01am

Day92: Narendra, It takes time, never forget that.

Thu/Fri, 17/18 Jan 2013; 12:00am
Electronic City, Bangalore

I went for workouts, (but) most reluctantly today (M-70: M4W13D34) just to meet this week's target of 4 workout days. I was feeling lack of energy through out the day. I really need to do something about my protein and other nutrients intake. Friends, any idea on some Good Protein Powder and Whereabouts in Bangalore?? Do write to me. I really need to include that in my diet.

Sometimes I lose my hope, will I be ever able to make it? Why is there no progress in last one month? How much more time will it take to lose that extra layer of flab? ......................and then I tell to myself, 

Narendra, It takes time, never forget that.

Love!!
Narendra Gupta
12:05am

Day91: EXERCISE = ENDORPHINS. Endorphins makes you happy.

Wed/Thu; 16/17 Jan 2013; 1:20am
Electronic City, Bangalore

Wao!! What a hectic day it had been. Thank you GOD for being kind and Gracious. It was a customer visit in our Account (Cardinal Health) and you know what?, I received appreciation from my Senior Management for my endeavors in front of the Client. Andy, from Cardinal congratulated me for my work. I was overwhelmed with his 'Thank you' and consider it as the first step towards my Goal of achieving the Best Employee's Award of 2013 and the likes.

With regards to Mission 70, Today (M4W13D33), I did a few abs exercises along with Cardios (Treadmill, Cycling) shedding approximately 300 Calories. The role of food intake is crucial in this regard, this weekend I would work on preparing my food-chart. There has not been much progress in my weight rather Fat loss in the recent past, I have been steady on the 77.3 Kg mark for last one month now. I can still see lot of flab around my abdomen area which can be shed away. Once again reiterating my words, said many a times earlier - Nothing but Consistency (in workouts) is the key (regards to M-70).

Now I am going to share my favorite Exercise with you all. I prefer it more than anything. Any Guesses??

Yes, it's RUNNING. Here's top 15 reasons, Why?, you, I and all of us should run :)

Hope you are doing wonderful in your lives, wherever you are..

Best Wishes,

Narendra Gupta

1:40am

Day90: Just keep going. Seriously! So much harder to get back in shape then to maintain it!

Tuesday, 15 Jan 2013; 11:16pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

After a long weekend, it was a back to business day. I arrived office by 12 noon today and could return back only an hour ago. At work, felt a sense of satisfaction after providing KT sessions to my Kolkata Team and their positive feedback. I went to Gym at my usual time of 6 to 7 pm today (M70-M4W13D32) doing cardios (Treadmill, Elliptical Machine) with some abdominal exercises. 

Feeling too tired to write anymore.

Sharing this beautiful piece from Robin Sharma's website:

62-tips-to-get-unstuck-in-2013 by Robin Sharma

Hope you liked it and will follow in your personal lives. Good Night Friends!!

Narendra Gupta
11:32pm

Day89:And cooking is about balance and harmony. - Nigella Lawson

Monday, 14 Jan 2013; 10:55pm;

Electronic City, Bangalore

Although missed my family today, I feel elated to share how I celebrated 'Makar Sankranti' away from family (and Home) and my (small but significant) achievement as a cook. After the late morning walk (as usual, got up only by 9 am) and purchasing all necessary stuffs for the festival, I returned to clean the room and after the bath and a small 'pooja-path', I ate the traditional food of Dahi-Chura (Curd, Flat Rice) along with Jaggery (as sweetener), Til ka Lai which Hindus (usually) eat on this auspicious day of Makar Sankranti (also Called Til-Sakrat by many). I thoroughly enjoyed the food, indeed a soul-satisfying one.Thereafter, I spent the afternoon with one my favorite pastimes, yes, reading Newspaper.

After repeated instructions from family (especially Mom, Sister and Wifey), I made up my mind to prepare Khichdi. My effort to make the maiden Khichdi by Cook Narendra (E)atable, brought in good results. Indeed, my masala Khichdi was good in taste (:P). For supplements, I had prepared 'Ful-gobi and aloo ka pakoda' along with 'Papad' . Awesome taste and when you eat (mix) Khichdi with curd, the taste multiplies. It was a good experience and learning as a Cook, Thanks to Didi (my elder sister) for her cooking lessons today.

I enjoyed the day and the food thoroughly. Hope you all had a similar time with your near and dear ones.

While it was completely a cheat meal day, I vow for my commitment towards mission 70 and my workouts this coming week which starts tomorrow.

Good Night Everyone!!

Narendra Gupta

11:20pm

Day88: “Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning and we bring it to life. It is a waste to be asking the question when you are the answer.” ― Joseph Campbell

Sunday, 13 January 2013; 11:35pm

Electronic City, Bangalore

I started the day (a little late, at 9:30am) with a morning stroll and on the way, grabbed a hot cup of tea, returning with two national English dailies, the TOI and the DC (Deccan Chronicle); and I had got the read (time pass) for the day. What caught my attention was the Supplement section 'The Speaking Tree' (which comes with TOI) which I used to ignore (reading) earlier, was the (most) worthwhile read of the day. Deepak Chopra, suggesting to a Gentleman, running through an impasse in his married Life, goes on to say that, in relationships what you resist, persists. He quotes, the solution is to start negotiating, stop blaming, respect other side's position, being empathic, working from points of agreements, to listen and to learn, and not to be competitive, this is not about (who is) winning and (who is) losing, when a relationship suffers, nobody wins. Beautiful points and Lessons learnt, Sir. Thank you.

Moving on, in another article 'Kitten Sutra (under Soul Soup section), an old lady (who is a cleaning staff in the hospital) says to an extensively rich lady (who is complaining to a Psychiatrist that she feels her whole life is empty and meaningless), how she finds meaning in her life. The old lady who had lost her Husband and Child and who was about to take her own life, saw a little kitten who followed her from work. The old lady felt sorry for the kitten and decided to let the kitten in, in the cold winter. She offered her milk and the kitten licked the plate clean, purring and rubbing against the old lady's leg, after which the lady started smiling. She then thought, if helping a little kitten can make me smile, maybe doing something for people could make me happy. Everyday she tried to do something nice for someone, seeing other people happy, made her happier. The old lady goes on to say that "Today, I do not know of anybody who sleeps and eats better than I do". Hearing this, the rich lady cried. The morale of the story is, it is not money that can buy everything but the attitude towards life, how you find meaning in your life.

Another beautiful article on 'Happiness Mantra', re-iterated, it is the individual (and not anyone else in the world) upto which the basic underlying decision to 'be happy' or 'not to be happy' lies.

Here's wishing you a Very Happy Makar Sankranti and Pongal!!

Calling it a day, Good Night Friends!!

Narendra Gupta

12:05am

Day87: "Time = life; therefore, waste your time and waste your life, or master your time and master your life." ~ Alan Lakein

Sat/Sun, 12/13 Jan 2013; 12:20am
Electronic City, Bangalore

I spent the day doing absolutely nothing, wasting time reading, surfing (meaningless, absurd) news on TOI and hitting one link (news) after another, (simply) passing time and the interesting (worst) thing is that I keep on repeating such things time and again. I really need to get out of this habit to make the best use of TIME, self check point, Narendra!!

While having Lunch, I saw the (hollywood) movie 'The Bucket List', a worthwhile watch, moving me completely. Its the story of two old men who are terminally ill and would die in another 6 months, and who go on to fulfill a list of (exceptional) things they wish to do (experience) before they die. Stunningly awesome, another movie on my list of All time favorites added. 

Its time to ponder on how to make each minute (of day, of life) count.

Lord Chesterfield has rightly said:

"Take care of the minutes and the hours will take care of themselves."

 Good Night, Lots of Best Wishes!!

Narendra Gupta

12:35pm

 

Day86: Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live. ~Jim Rohn

Friday, 11 Jan 2013; 9:55pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

After the workouts today (M70-M4W12D31), I (still) weighed 77.4Kgs. I (still) have a lot of fat around my belly area which can be burned out.Sharing one of the videos, I came across, focused on reducing abdominal fat..

On that note, I call it a day. Hope you liked the video.

Good Night.

Narendra Gupta
10:05pm

Day85: “Healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.” ― Winston S. Churchill

Thu/Fri, 10/11 Jan 2013;12:01am
Electronic City, Bangalore

It was a busy but overall a satisfactory day. I could reach home only a few moments ago after hectic session of work today (M70: M4W12D30). I went to Gym on my scheduled time of (6-7) pm, taking an hour-off from work. These days my focus is on reducing the fat around belly area, am doing more of abs, push-ups, mountain-climbers, toe-taps and the likes. Same time, I feel that I will have to take care of my diet part (proper nutrients, proteins, carbs intake). Striking a balance between your food intake and you fat-burnouts is going to be a challenge for you Narendra in the coming days.

Sharing these poems, (which) I came across on a fitness website:

Burn Fat Burn

Sometimes the path seems filled with pain,

but the only thing that hurts is your ego in vain.

Who says you’ll find success by pushing yourself daily,

when the results seem as far as the comet Halley.

But wait, you say, there’s a simple solution,

because reasons and excuses are just an illusion.

So keep on trucking with that positive attitude,

with fat burning workouts there’s no room for platitude.

Always set your intentions and just let’em fly,

no judgment, no worries, to your old ways goodbye!

YOU CAN DO IT

I’m here to help you
There’s no need to fail
If you know what to do
Then just step on the scale

Believe you can tighten
Believe you can win
Cause who better than you
Conquers that battle within

Mother Nature’s quite cruel
Father Time’s a quick chime
Who says you can’t switch
To a program like mine

Don’t despair my good student
You’ll never be bored
With a daily fitness program
You’ll love your reward

                                                    Source: www.richtola.com

Good Night Friends!!

Lovely and Sweet Dreams to all..

Narendra Gupta
12:18am

Day84: ”The glue that holds all relationships together -- including the relationship between the leader and the led is trust, and trust is based on integrity.” --Brian Tracy

Wednesday, 09 Jan 2013; 11:30pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

Relations are something which (always) keep on changing with time, be it the relationship with your Parents when you were child as compared to times (now) when you are grown up, be it with your brothers, sisters and many more relatives, there is certain change which prevails in all relationships at different periods of time. Different degrees (of relationship) hold for friends and colleagues as well. Management of relationships is somethings which I (and you) need to master at this stage of my(your) life for successes in my future life.

At work, I had a discussion with my Team sitting in Kolkata. I tried to understand their challenges. I started on a very jovial and cordial relationship with all team mates a month ago but when it comes to work, time and again I feel that there should be a line between friendship and colleague(ship) or those who are reporting under you or whom you are reporting to.Work relationship need to be learnt Narendra, next task for you!

Okay. So another beautiful day passing by which is never going to come again. Two days ago one of the colleagues in his adieu mail had written on Gratitude "There is no such thing as gratitude unexpressed. If it is unexpressed, it is ingratitude" So Let me pay my gratitude to this wonderful day of my Life.

I started the day late, once again, getting up at 10:05 am. Reached office by 12 noon. I went to Gym at my scheduled time 6 in the evening today (M70- M4W12D29) doing Cardios accompanied with some weights and abs exercises. Returned home only by 10 in evening :)

And for next 15 minute (or until I sleep), over to the book by Rujuta Diwekar..

Good Night Everyone..

Narendra Gupta
10 Jan;12:15am

Day83 “One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it's worth watching” ― Gerard Way:

Tue/Wed, 08/09 Jan 2013; 12:05am
Electronic City, Bangalore

I am so furious over that bullshit 'Autowala', that illiterate, uncivilized, and rude moron. While returning home (from office), an hour ago, I boarded an Auto (which was passing by, and without any passenger) on the condition that I would pay him the fare (usually) paid on shared basis only (there was auto stand near by and if he would have replied otherwise, I wouldn't have taken that 'Auto') and he nodded saying 'yes'. After going over some distance he stopped and started waiting for more passengers, he waited for more than 5 minutes and when i said 'Bhaia Please chalo, der ho rahi hai', that animal started shouting, arguing, raising fingers in a very uncivilized manner. When I said, 'you didn't say that you will stop midway', he further got aggravated, he told 'I will wait for half an hour, its my wish,......'. Now, this behaviour was completely unacceptable, and when I told, I will complain to Police, he displayed no fear for Police, instead, he said, 'its (Police Station) near by, you can go and complain'. Bullshit. He could have requested to wait for some time and I would have happily waited. Because of such scoundrel autowalas, who denied going to Damini's place (Delhi Rape Case victim), she had to board the bus with killers on that fateful night of 16th Dec 2012. Damn such dirty people. I left the auto and walked the rest of distance (around 2.5 Kms).

Okay. Now that I have expressed my anger over the moron, I feel better :)

Earlier in the day, I was quite reluctant to come out of blanket (in this cold morning), feeling lazy and loath to go to office. Somehow, not to miss a day's attendance, I got up at 10:15am (breaking all records on office days) and reached office only by 12 noon (again all records on time commitment shattered). Yes, M-70 progressed by a day with some Cadrio, Weights and Abs exercises today (M70 - M4W12D28). 

And YES, I appreciate the arrest of hate-monger politician, Akbarrudin Owaisi. He should be isolated and kept aloof, far away from public life. Any such people, be it Praveen Togadia, or Varun Gandhi or anyone who try to do vote bank politics by using communal routes are unacceptable to India. They should be isolated from public life for ever. These people are bizarre disease to Indian democracy.

I LOVE MY INDIA and as a citizen of India, I disown any such people (be it a hindu or muslim) who try to create hatred in society speaking against the interests of Motherland.

Good Night Friends, Hope you are enjoying your journey of struggles, disappointment, sadness, delight, excitement, joy, and happiness, hope you are enjoying your LIFE :)

Narendra Gupta

12:28am

Day82: Whether it is a 14 minute mile or a 7 minute mile, IT IS STILL A MILE.

Monday, 07 Jan 2013; 10:58pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

I was watching Arnab's (Arnab Goswami) program 'The News Hour' on Times Now. I was wondering how dedicated this man is towards his service, towards the nation. He had updated his profile on Twitter as 'The Fearless Journalist' and rightly so. I have been a great admirer of this person who has clearly shown on several occasions that he represents the common people. Today, when some participant leaders tried to communalise the issue over the hate monger politician Akbarrudin, he clearly said, 'it is not a Hindu vs Muslim but it is one man vs the whole nation'. Akbaruddin had bad-mouthed several hindu leaders, political parties and even Lord Ram and other deities.i hope that media maintains constant pressure on the govt to act and put this mutt in his right place i.e. behind the bars.

Moving on, I wonder why I have been so lazy all Mondays, I try to motivate self, saying all possible positive words, etcetera but in vain. I felt lazy, rusty and lethargic today, possibly the hangover (of rest over the weekend) continues on Monday as well. For the first time in last 3 months , since I started working on M-70, I have kept my weekly target of 5 workout days. Today (M70-M4W12D27) was first of the five days. Now that only 3 months are in hand, I have kept a target weight of 73 Kg for the January month. I really need to get out of my comfort zone now, if at all I have to accomplish my target weight.

 

Those of you reading me, Do wish me luck for accomplishing my target :)

Good Night!!

Narendra Gupta

11:10pm

Day81:“Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet.” ― Maya Angelou

Sun/Mon, 06/07 Jan 2013; 1:48am

Electronic City, Bangalore

Politicians like Raj Thackrey and Akbaruddin Owaisi are disease to India. Politics by invoking hatred in a section of society serves no good. Such leadership should be weeded out for the good of the nation. Just now I was seeing the hate speech of Akbaruddin on youtube and was quite surprised how this person is moving freely after making such a lowly, derogatory and hateful speech against a Religion in a secular country. People like him should be given the harshest of punishment and kept aloof from the society.

I enjoyed reading articles of Mr. M J Akbar and Sobha De in TOI this morning. Akbar says 'you can expect a Christmas tree, not a budget' this February by Mr. P Chidambram. There will be more gifts for the electorate. Rightly so, what more we can expect from this Government which has failed on most occasions. Shobha says '2013 belongs to the citizens of the Country' and I truly believe in this. I hope this year would prove to be the milestone in changing mindsets of the country. 

I spent this Sunday peacefully. I came to know about the P90X fitness program from my friend Anand Vasu. The program recommends a 90 days workout guaranteeing fit and toned body, certainly something good in the way of M-70. Looking for an exciting day tomorrow.

Good Night Friends.

Narendra Gupta

1:53am

 

Day80: He is a poor son whose sonship does not make him desire to serve all men's mothers. ~ Harry Emerson Fosdick

Sat/Sun, 05/06 Jan 2013;12:45am
Electronic City, Bangalore

Meri Maa....

Today (Saturday) was my Mom's Eye surgery for the Cataract that had developed due to her old age. Thank you God, Surgery went successful. I pray for my GOD's (Mom's) speedy recovery after the operation. Only then, surgery in her other eye would be done (possibly after a month). These are the times when I must be with my Parents, taking care of them every single moment, standing aside the O.T, extending every single (small and big) service that I could. I feel so angry over self, due to job-commitments and far-off place (from home), I have not been able to serve my Parents in times of need. 

I  spend the day in complete harmony with self, though got disturbed after reading many more news of rapes and sexual assault over women. When will the men in country understand that a family, a society and the country will progress and develop only when Women are RESPECTED. They are the ones' who give us birth, we must, must respect women and promote equality in society. This evening shared my thoughts and anger on the ongoing crisis with Murali, I said there must be ZERO TOLERANCE by women in such cases.

In order to reduce my Tea and Coffee intake at office (one of my resolutions for 2013), I bought GREEN TEA today. They are rich in anti-oxidants and help in cholesterol control and burning fat, overall they help in maintaining good health.

Calling it a day now, Good Night Everyone!

Narendra Gupta

1:25am

Day79: The two most important days in your life are the day you are born..and the day you find out why. -Mark Twain.

Fri/Sat, 04/05 Jan 2013; 1:48am
Electronic City, Bangalore

It was one of those days when I was not at my best. Spent most of the time (at office) gossiping, lecturing, chit- chatting, and other non-essential activities. just invested all my time (after office) to ...you know..a very important activity..'FACEBOOKING'. :P

Moving on.I was impressed after my conversation with my Project friend, Anand Vasu. His ideology towards life, people, society, and many other things..quite impressive. He feels that the Lives of the culprits of the horrendous Delhi rape case should not be taken away rather they should be given such a punishment that they feel the shame and pain throughout their lives (castration, cutting their limbs, legs and the likes). He feels that if GOD has given life, then only, he has the right to take it. He believes in doing an extensive research before taking any decision (Big or Small).

Okay. Now update on M-70: After a long break, I hit the Gym for third day (M70- M4W11D26) in a row.

Sharing one of the quotes I found on FB today:

Meanwhile......I am still exploring self, trying best to know... the WHO and WHY of me.

Good Night.

Narendra Gupta

05 Jan, 2am

Day78: “There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

Thursday, 03 Jan 2012; 11:05pm
Electronic City, Bangalore

It's been a long, exhausting day. I did a few cardio and abs exercises at Gym today (M70 - M4W11D25). A few of fellow colleagues shared their experiences of celebrating the Year end. Uthra, a chennaite went to see Pushkar, famous for the only 'God Brahma' temple in the world and many other historical places in Rajasthan including Jaipur, Udaypur, Jaisalmer. She went along with her husband and had a WOW experience. Mahesh had gone to Mauritius along with his wife on a seven days trip. He said he would have preferred to visit Andaman, you find similar things in India, why visit foreign land? India is a huge and with thousand of beautiful places to be explored. Hearing their experience, recalled I have to take my Parents on an India tour someday, when?, I really don't know. Moving on, enjoyed the sweets from Uthra and Shiny in office. Anil, my Practice manager called on me to discuss on my next assignment, he briefly praised for my deliverables at work however said you have to be ready for even bigger and more challenging roles. In the meanwhile, I am loving my 'I can, I will' diary. Certainly a recommended product for each one of you reading me.

Feeling too tired to write anymore.

Here's wishing a Good Night to all of you reading me.

Narendra Gupta
11:15pm

Day77:Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. -Cavett Robert

Wednesday, 02/03 Jan 2012; 12:45am
Electronic City, Bangalore

At the beginning of every Year, we make Resolutions towards Positive movement in life, and for a Positive change with the likes of Exercising everyday, Quitting on bad habits like Drinking and Smoking, Reading more books of interest, Spending more time with family and the list goes on. In the initial days people start with all energy and enthusiasm as if some unknown force is pushing them to surge ahead. However with the passage of a few days (not even months for most of them), that energy slowly starts dissipating away and the 'chalta hai' attitude starts creeping in. It happens with most of us, I am no different.

There is something about the New Year when the vim reflects in people and which inspires them to do new things for their betterment. Today (M-70: M4W11D24) I met a friend who was coming to Gym after a gap of 5 months, many more like him. Why did he wait for January to hit Gym again, something good and fresh about January and the New Year. Who, better can understand this than a procrastinator like me. The point I want to make is, its just about mindset, Everyday is a new day and Good work need not wait for Jan of an year to start. If you feel that you have been missing on something or want to acquire some skills, make resolutions at that particular time of realisation, be it February, May or December. Let me finish up my 'Guru-bani' now before it bores (you) enough, in fact this thought occurred to me when I was writing the resolutions and Goals for this year realizing that I had failed on most of my Goals. I was wondering if I would let die the momentum this year as well.

I felt sleepy throughout this first working day of 2013. I was feeling lazy and lethargic. The positive thing was that after a long gap, I went to Gym today and did cardio-vascular exercises for 40 minutes approx. I loved using my new diary for 2013.

Good Night Everyone!

Narendra Gupta
1:10am

Day76: The great and glorious masterpiece of man is to know how to live to purpose. Michel de Montaigne

Tue/Wed, 01/02 Jan 2013; 12:55am
Electronic City, Bangalore

Thank you Flipkart for delivering my I can-I will diary for the year 2013 on time, just finished up writing my major goals for the year 2013. Yes, M-70 comes as the top priority. So, I have another 3 months to reduce my body weight to 70 Kgs (Currently 77.3Kgs). I had been irregular making 1-2 days per week for last one month which I would have to change to accomplish my target weight. Another Goal for 2013 is to do complete anger management at home and work. Also, I would read a minimum of 20 Books this year (My 3rd Goal).

On my resolution list, comes dealing with distractions (all kinds) like phone calls, emails, fb notifications, some other low priority tasks which reduce my productivity at work. Another resolution is to cut on the time spent on the electronic media like TV, Internet etc and devote more time to reading books. I would also cut on the time spent on phone calls apart from social networking sites like FB and Twitter.

Enough said now action..

Looking forward for the frst working day of 2013..

Good Night Everyone,

Narendra Gupta

1:10pm