Dale Carnegie is an American writer, lecturer and developer of famous courses in self-improvement, salesmanship, corporate training, public speaking and interpersonal skills. He is best known for his groundbreaking book “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” first published in 1936, which has become one of the best-selling self-help books of all time. Carnegie’s quote emphasises the power of perseverance and determination to achieve significant accomplishments. The quote highlights that many of the world’s greatest achievements have been made by individuals who persisted despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges and hopeless situations. It underscores that success often comes from a relentless commitment to one’s goals and a refusal to give up, even when the odds are against them. Carnegie’s words serve as an inspiration to keep striving and maintaining hope, suggesting that unwavering determination can lead to remarkable outcomes, regardless of the difficulties encountered.

India finally finished its dance with democracy with the results declared earlier this week. Like many Indians or people of Indian origin both within the country and abroad, I too was hooked to the results coming in. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its coalition, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), retained power, albeit with reduced numbers. The BJP won 240 seats, down from 303 in 2019, losing its singular majority but maintaining control through coalition support. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance or INDIA, a coalition led by the Indian National Congress (INC), significantly increased its representation, securing 234 seats, with the Congress alone winning 99 seats. This marked a substantial improvement for the opposition, which will now hold the status of the Official Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

Voter turnout was remarkable, with over 642 million people casting their votes, including record participation by women voters. The election process was the largest in history, surpassing previous records and involving extensive phases across the country. Despite BJP’s victory, the elections were marred by controversies, including allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) malfunctions and suppression of political opponents. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, having completed two terms, will now lead a coalition government for his third term, supported by key allies such as the Telugu Desam Party and Janata Dal (United). Simultaneous state legislative assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim, along with by-elections for 25 legislative assembly constituencies, also took place.

BB is at the tail end of his current course before he joins his unit for on-the-job training later this month. This means that for the next 10 days, his course will be stay-out, meaning that he comes home each night. BB is thrilled with this, as according to him, he sleeps best in his bed! GG is enjoying her holidays, as she didn’t manage to secure any internships. She is doing one course in summer school and she is busy with that in addition to crocheting and going out with friends. As for me, I am still where I was last week, with no change in status.

And that’s all from me this week. Keep smiling!