Let me assist you in deciding which device is the best option for you.

Identify your needs

If you are looking for office work, where you need to continuously work on worksheets and documents and prepare presentations, then a laptop is the ideal bet for you. A basic laptop of the current generation Core i3 is an excellent choice. Do not get fooled by the older generations which are priced low, as they may not get support in the subsequent years.

If you are in a profession where you continuously are video conferencing, you need a faster processor and quick checks, a premium smartphone is your best bet. Any smartphone costing between 35k - 65k will be a good investment.

For students, many parents prefer laptops or tablets due to screen size. But the camera quality and speed of the laptops or tablets with very low specifications can be a big disadvantage. A mid-range smartphone costing somewhere between 12k to 25 k with a bigger screen is a good investment. Not only do you have excellent camera quality, with a fast processor, but you can also use it for multiple purposes. The large screen problem can be solved by casting the phone on your flat-screen TV monitor.

Is Camera Quality Important?

If yes, then go for a smartphone. Not even laptops that cost over 2 lakhs can give you the camera quality that a phone can provide. A phone that costs just 12 k gives you a better camera or video quality than a laptop that costs you double.

Budget

If your budget is under 20k, then a smartphone is your way to go. I would suggest against buying second-hand laptops since it’s very difficult to assess their longevity and often more money is spent on repairing them than the money spent on buying them. Older processors mean they lag more often making the user experience very frustrating. Their longevity and support are also not guaranteed.

High-End Graphics

A laptop is what you need. Even though a smartphone gives you great RAM and space, it cannot replace a laptop with a graphic card. Softwares like Adobe Photoshop or CorelDraw run better on these systems. A gaming laptop that starts from 95 k onwards is where your options start from. Anything below that will not suffice your needs.

While Buying a Laptop, this is a checklist you must follow:
☑️ Processor- Intel or AMD
☑️RAM -2GB/ 4 GB/8 GB/ 16GB
☑️Check if RAM is fixed or upgradable
☑️Graphics Card
☑️Storage Space - 500 GB Minimum
☑️If Storage is Hard drive or SSD ( SSD is expensive but has faster performance and durability)
☑️Ports
☑️ Operating System -Microsoft or Mac
Buy a laptop that comes with OS ( Buying it separately will turn out to be costlier/ Pirated versions compromise your laptop)
☑️Battery Life- Always assume that it will be less than what the brand claims
☑️Screen Size and Display
☑️Brand- Choose a brand that has been in the market as a performer and has good after-sales service in your area

While buying a Smartphone, this a checklist you must follow:
☑️ Operating System- Android/IOS/Windows
☑️Processor, Cores and Speed
☑️Screen Type- LCD or AMOLED ( LCD display if fragile, easily breaks)
☑️ Screen Size
☑️Memory - Fixed or Extendable
☑️Camera- Resolution and pixels
☑️4G /5G Support- Buy 5G support
☑️Battery Life
☑️Accessories
☑️Brand- Choose a brand that has been in the market as a performer and has good after-sales service in your area

Things to Remember
Buying phones and laptops from online e-commerce sites is a good choice if they are verified and you have bought from a particular seller before. Going to the nearest store and checking the device physically before buying is recommended. Do not get fooled by sales and go for impulsive buys. Always check for specifications, features, generations, date of manufacture properly before making an online buy. Your online buying experience is a happy one, only if you are an aware and careful consumer. When in doubt, go to consumer forums and check for reviews. The reviews on sites can sometimes be misleading. So a review from Quora or any other Consumer platform is a good place to get authentic user feedback/information.

Happy Shopping!! Don't forget to add your comments and recommendations.

Avantika was pondering over a serious question. She was battling a choice between success and failure. Her choice today would determine what would be the reaction of hundreds of people. Yes, she was deciding which selfie to post online.

Wrecking her brains, she looked exasperated at all the clothes piled on her bed to the other side, " I have to decide. It's a do-or-die situation. How about I post this yellow summer dress with floral flip-flops ...it's okay. It would provide some base before I post the mini black number with stilettos."
At 16, she had already decided on her career path. She wanted to become an Instagram influencer with I million + followers. It was her first goal. A goal she had to struggle to achieve.
Avantika hailed from a middle-class family. Both her parents were employed in IT firms. They ensured that she got the best of everything.
Sadly, that wasn't enough for her. Other girls and their idols spent thousands of rupees getting branded handbags, shoes, and designer clothes. She never seemed to catch up to them.

At the dinner table, Avantika made a glum face. Her doting father asked," What's it honeybun? What makes my princess so sad?". She replied with a huff " Princess my foot, I need those new H&M hoodies and Nike sneakers" With a defeated look in her eyes her mom asked," Didn't we buy you stuff worth 20k last week? Isn't it enough for this month? You know you have it easy. We slog for hours to make your dreams come true."
Avani retorted " Mom, what's the big deal? It's a parent's duty to earn and provide for their kids...you aren't doing something extraordinary!!".
Her dad gave her a warning look that she had crossed the line. She skipped dinner and locked herself up in her bedroom. These tactics and tantrums weren’t new and always seemed to do the trick. The next morning, she found 5 grand on the table with a note that said,

" Please eat your breakfast kutti ( Tamilian short name for baby)- love papa"

This summer vacation, her parents planned a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. They were really looking forward to the much-needed break and time to spend with their daughter.

Throughout the trip, Avantika spent hours on her phone clicking several pics and creating reels of herself and some of her mom and dad. Making optimum use of her two fav apps- Inshot and FilmoraGo, she spent the evenings editing to capture the correct hue or pose. She made her parents pose for endless hours. She clicked pictures of food, the resorts, her chappals, her make-up routine. It was a blessing that she hadn't recorded a reel of herself sleeping at night.

Her parents were concerned about this obsession of hers. Her dad tried to make some conversation at breakfast, " Hey kutti, why don't you enjoy your food instead of clicking a pic huh? You won't find this time again. Look at the serene view. Look at the tiny kids building sandcastles ...."..Avani said," I am clicking pictures and recording videos so that I have memories for later. I will look back at all of this one day and remember you all."

Three months later, Avantika's mom was diagnosed with covid. She was hospitalized and now needed ventilator support. Everything at home had gone grim. Avantika looked at her dad who had got dark circles. He was hardly present at home. Most of the day was spent in work from home office hours and the nights at the hospital waiting lounge. She missed her parents especially her mom.

She went to her google drive to look at the pictures she had clicked at the islands. She stared and stared at them but there was no memory. She could not recollect a single moment she had shared with her mom or for that matter even her dad. There was no real connection...they were just pretty pictures. Something inside her broke, she started crying uncontrollably. She imagined how her life would be without her mom.

Fortunately, her mom recovered. It was a long road, but she made it. Avantika realized that life was not just mindless posts or reels that looked pretty over social media platforms. She really needed to experience the world around her and nurture relationships. It was okay to click pics and post them. Living and experiencing life created memories not staged stories.

She still wants to be an Instagram influencer. Though now, she has gained a whole new insight into living life.

Hey! Wondering what to do for this weekend? Bored of Netflix, candlelight dinners, and game nights? Indulge yourself in something far more passionate than working out ways to kill time. Yes, a weekend content writing workshop. You must be wondering what's so wonderful about this. There are like a dime a dozen workshops that have zero credibility and are 100% commercial with no market value.

Let me give you a little peek at how Content Vidhya's Weekend Content Writing Course is a class apart.

1. A trainer with +16 years of Industry experience

Meet Uma Mahadhvi, a single mom who with her perseverance and determination has turned her passion into a multi-millionaire business. With strong roots and foundations, she guides and mentors her students. Her evaluations are always to the point and no bullshit. Her in-depth understanding and style of teaching have sparked a light in many. She has paved a path for homemakers, college students, interns, and professionals in the entrepreneurial way of life. Her motto" Work for yourself, why work for others when you know you can shine alone like the sun"

2. Lifetime access to India’s biggest community of Content Writers

Talent alone is not sufficient to make you excel in any field. Networking and the right contacts could lead you to a dream career path you have never imagined.

3. Get Live sessions & 5 Assignments reviewed by the Expert Uma Mahdavi

Yes, you just don’t sit and listen to long boring lectures. You actually create ad copies, research blogs, and landing pages and get them reviewed personally. Practice maketh man or woman purrfect!!!

4. Get material worth INR 4999/- free
No, this is not a hoax. Content Vidhya provides you with exclusive material that contains the secrets on how to write content effectively. You will also have points on how to create your Linked In Profile, Instagram Biopic, and Facebook biopic.

5. The Weekend Course is just for INR 499/- only
I know I couldn’t believe that this course costs less than the take-out meal we order for two people. Though it may seem reasonable, it’s done so that it is more accessible to all. Equality of opportunity is what we truly believe in. We don’t wish to leave anyone behind just because we decided to price the knowledge higher.

6. Lifetime Support

A dedicated Whatsapp group of your batch with all the latest updates and opportunities. You can mail us anytime for any queries with your journey ahead. Pre-Recorded sessions of the course with lifetime access

Too good to be true? Go now and click on the link given below :

https://contentvidhya.com/weekend-content-writing/

You will be surprised that there is much more they offer. Hurry!! Only a few seats left. The next batch commences from 2nd October 2021. Can’t wait to train the best potential talent. See you there.

Disclaimer: This blog is a task by Content Vidhya. All pictures, names are copyrighted.

Every December 🎄 brings along a mixed bag of emotions. There is joy & hope for the new year, and regrets and sorrow for the time that has passed.

We forge new relationships 🧑‍🤝‍🧑👭👬and let go of the old ones.🏌️.

A walk down the memory lane is what makes this chilly month❄️,an emotional one.

The million dollar question that we end up asking ourselves is " What next?".

Well folks, let me be blatant and inform you that this question is just the beginning of a series of questions. It shall be followed by more thoughts with no right answers. Frustration builds up🦍, bursting the happy bubble of this holiday season.

Let me guide you through the remainder of this Month. Do not ruin a perfectly good present in the hope of a brighter future. Do not mess up today reminiscing the past.

Let me be your guiding angel just for today. Let me show you 5 sure shot ways to drive away the ghosts of your past.

1.Close the Doors🚪

When I say close the doors, I mean bolt it tightly so that you don't find an opening that lets you sneak past the wiser you.
We must end a relationship to start afresh. We have relationships not only with our partners , friends, colleagues but also with materialistic stuff.

It’s not easy. The new way of life dictates that we keep the doors open. But if you follow any path of spirituality, we are taught never to leave loose ends. They sometimes come to haunt us . They try desperately to tie a noose around our 🧣

Advice: Your ex is called an ex for a reason. You have left the company because you were unhappy. You couldn’t be friends with a person who treated you like 3 ply toilet roll.
Cutting off doesn’t mean you are being petty. It’s an informed choice. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you connect back.

2. Hoarding is a Sin, Charity is a Win

Yeah! That old pair of jeans that you wore in college that hangs in your closet. Your baby sweater that your great aunt supposedly gifted you on her deathbed when you were 2 months old. All these keep-sake memories need to remain just that- Memories. Hoarding in a world wrought with poverty is a sin. We try to associate and build relationships with physical property as a sign of our wealth , status & power. These wonderful things need to be given away when they are no longer of use.

Hoarding is a serious psychological disease that very few seem to acknowledge in the world. We must create space in our hearts so that we can create some space in our homes and lives.

Advice: There is no easy way with parting your precious. Seek a cause you are willing to donate. Go and volunteer in an orphanage or an old age home. You will find it easier to part ways with things.

3. Ask For help

Don't be shy for your life's on the line. Don't let pride be your greatest downfall. Don't confuse being independent with being the only one to bear the burden.
The mantra to living life cannot be found in any book, secret cave or space. It's sheer experience and will power that helps you get through. This turbulent life cannot be lived without seeking help. Even Santa has elves as his helpers. Do not forget the Almighty who has several angels guiding you this very moment.

Advice: Drink to gather courage to ask for help. Do not drink to drown your sorrows or pain.
Join an anonymous self help group or talk to a shrink . Family & friends may not always have the answers you are looking for.

4. Create New Memories

Old photo albums make their way out of the closets. Beautiful and amazing times bring tears to our eyes. A walk down the memory lane can often make you feel depressed and lost. We cannot live our life based on past glories or relationships.
Create a new memory today . Go out click a picture of the moon or the tree. Spend some time with people who are there right now. If you are alone, call up a childhood friend or a random stranger for all I care. Make the most of today.

Advice: Get your head out of you sweet arse. Wallowing in self-pity is not going to get you anywhere. Call a friend or take a spontaneous trip.

5. Celebrate Life & Be grateful

This may sound like something you do only when you are happy or joyous but it's needed more when you have hit rock bottom. Countless lives have been lost due to this pandemic. People have left usway before their deserved time. Families, friends and relatives all over the world are mourning their loved ones.

And here I request all the ones who are left standing, be grateful. Your life is a priceless gift. The house that you live in with people to call your own is a luxury you cannot deny. Celebrate today without rhyme or reason. Be grateful to all that you have, for it may not see a tomorrow.

Advice: Follow your heart. There is no better person who knows you as intimately as "You".

That's all folks. Have a wonderful December free from the ghosts of your past.

Please like ,share and follow me for some great reads. Feel free to add your thoughts or comments in the section below.

Yours angel guide,
Signing off duty

What if we spoke exactly what we felt?

“ Auntiji, Whenever I see you come down from the stairs I wish you would topple and break your neck.”- Unmarried but 30+

“ Mom, I am going out for a nightout with my boyfriend. Do not disturb us. I have never entered your bedroom when you were screaming funny” — Teenage daughter

“ Mother-in-Law, When I chop the onions into thin slices I always think it’s you. It gives me a weird sense of contentment”- Your Son’s Wife Truly

I’m certain; numerous such one-liners would have popped in your minds as well. The world would certainly be hilarious if all would just speak out their mind. But is that really true?

Come let’s find out through a story-

Siddharth & Meera are your typical new age couple who plan on starting their lives together but are hesitant. Sid is a software guy, who flirts with his computer more than his girlfriend. Meera is a budding fashion designer who is struggling to get hired. Though their personalities clash, they support and cheer each other.

If they were to speak their thoughts openly…..

Sid: Meera, I don’t think with that attitude anyone in the Fashion Industry will hire you.

Meera: How could you make such an atrocious statement Sid?!?

Sid: Have you looked at your designs? Aliens from another planet might also reject them. You need to quit before it’s financially crippling.

Meera: You scoundrel!! Have you looked at yourself lately? You have been so busy bootlicking the boss that you have neglected your personal hygiene. You are a stinky pig who won’t notice if Salma Hayek walked past you naked.

Sid: What do you wish to say? Am I impotent?! You crazy half wired Bitch..

Long story short… they quarrel, get into a nasty fight, and eventual break-up.

What we thought would happen?

• We would never be surrounded by false and pretense friends
• Our feedback from our juniors will be honest
• No- filter conversations will save us from heartbreak and cheats.
• Genuine and Good people will surround us and we will live a happier life.

What will actually happen?

Humans by nature thrive on compliments and positive motivation. But we are meager when it comes to dishing them out to others. We put in a lot of effort to compliment others just to cheer them up.

Hollered my nasty comments and stark naked truths, depression will come crashing in like a storm that hits a tree with the sole purpose of uprooting it. We will build an army of enemies in a matter of minutes. Battles will take place in real-time, not on virtual gaming platforms. We shall no longer be dependent on COVID -19 for fatalities.

“The truth doesn’t always set you free; people prefer to believe prettier, neatly wrapped lies”― Jodi Picoult, Keeping Faith

What we actually Need?

• We need a world where people are more empathetic rather than sympathetic.
• We need a world that opens doors to speak about our anxieties without the fear of being judged.
• We need a world that forgets & forgives our mistakes and gives us a second chance.
• We need the right mindset for this generation to survive.

How Can You Help?

Your inspiring words, a little encouragement, random compliments & faith in people will restore many lives. If you find someone is better than you, learn from them. If you find someone at par with you, work with them. If you find someone lagging behind, lend a hand.

This simple mantra will keep you happy. If you liked what I shared or have your own thoughts, please feel free to comment in the box.

Signing Off

My Virtual Journey with Content Vidhya…..

“No matter how many plans you make or how much in control you are, life is always winging it.”- Carroll Bryant.

What years of procrastination couldn’t do, just one click gave me a kick start towards my passion.

It was like any other day, same chores, the same routine. Scrolling through my Instagram feed, I saw a post that read “Online Content Writing Workshop” — by Content Vidhya. Skimmed through the page and just enrolled for it.

First Impression

The page said INR 999/- only for a 6- Day online Content Writing Workshop with lifetime support. Being a Mumbaikar, I smirked and told myself that such a bizarre commitment is impossible.

Usually, we spend 1000 bucks on a meal for two. So the money that I risked wasn’t much, to begin with, and neither were my expectations.

What to expect from this Workshop

It taught me the do’s & don’ts a writer should follow. Introduced me to great tools that any writer can use. Also motivated us to find our niche ( You will discover it for yourself).

Daily assignments & Deadlines were the fun part. It gave me the feeling of working as a content writer even before beginning this journey.

Prompt answers and all doubts cleared. What’s great is that they respond to all your queries no matter how crazy or silly they might seem.

What to NOT expect from this Workshop

It equips us with the tools but does not dictate or tell us exactly what to write.

Digital Marketing or Search Engine Optimization is a very different subject that does not come under Content writing.

Many people had the query of how to gain more followers for the posts or how can we make our posts more searchable. Though tips were given & keywords shared, they did not actually come under Content Writing.

Best Part of this Workshop

• Assignments are Reviewed by the industry expert personally
• Response to queries & suggestions lifetime( they mean business)
• Not heavy on the pocket
• You start your own Blog
• Certification

Was it Any Good?!?

Surprisingly, I ended up receiving much more than what I had bargained for.

Don’t be fooled by Uma Mahdhavi’s accent, it’s just one of the quirks that makes her more relatable to us. She is a cornucopia of knowledge. With 14+ years of industrial experience, her simplicity and bluntness give us a realistic idea about the world we are stepping into as “Content Writers”.

Whom would I recommend joining?

If you have a passion for writing, want to know how to connect with your audience & spread your ideas through words, this is The Place for you.

Any Advanced course or additional expense?

No, this covers all the basic requirements. No additional expense other than your time and dedication towards writing.

Final Thoughts

It was reveling discovering myself after a long time. Actually started writing. Imagine! I posted a blog after contemplating for years.

The best part is that I completed this course in the comfort of my bedroom, in my PJs along with a notebook, pen, a phone & some hot chai.

Signing off