7 life lessons that you can learn from ‘The Beautiful Game’

Inspiring Stories

30 June 2018

7 life lessons that you can learn from ‘The Beautiful Game’

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

Once in every 4 years, in the month of June, there is constant chatter in the pantry of your office to the news feeds on your social networks, about just one topic: Football.

The FIFA World Cup is more than a tournament, it’s an institution for players, fans and now even major brands who feed on its hype. If the numbers are anything to go by, we can expect the craze to stay at an all-time high. In India alone over 47 million people watched the first four matches, of which 45% were women. And the world over the numbers last stood at 3.2 billion, which is almost half the world’s population.
While the World cup is a non-stop frenzy, there is more to it than meets the eye. The hard work, ambition, passion of the players, coaches and associations who put in 4 years to constantly develop their talent is certainly something we can learn from. Here are 7 lessons we can pick up from what we have witnessed during the 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup.

#1 Learn to compete

Born with Growth Hormone Disorder, Lionel Messi was deemed to be a failure at the sport. How did he react? He decided to take his demons head-on. The fragile Messi, kept competing with opponents of larger stature and frame. He continued to do so until he could reinvent his game, adapt to the conditions and become a world beater.

Clearly Messi understands the importance of how competition breeds champions. The next time you see sizable problems in business, make sure to take them head-on and understand how you can focus on your strengths and get better with the situation.

#2 Learn the Value of Practice

Think Cristiano Ronaldo is a natural or was gifted with pure talent? Think again. What makes him the greatest is his constant urge to improve. Here’s a little story about his obsession with constant improvement. The one time he lost to a team-mate at table tennis and didn’t take it well. The very next day he purchased a table and practised up until he was sure he could beat all his team-mates.

If his obsession to get better for a sport he doesn’t play professionally was remarkable, imagine his thirst for getting better at Football. We can clearly see how practice pays off, as he has single-handedly carried Portugal into the knockouts of the tournament.
P.S. keep practising

#3 Learn To Lead

I know we’re in 2018, but for a second let’s take a trip down memory lane. Think about the greatest teams to have defied the odds in the World Cup: Italy from 2006, Germany from 1974 & 1990.  While these teams didn’t have the flair and panache of opponents such as Brazil, France, & Netherlands; they had one common factor: A GREAT LEADER AT THE HEART OF THE TEAM.

Remember Fabio Cannavaro, Franz Beckenbauer, & Lothar Matthäus; 3 different eras, but cut from the same cloth. Men who inspire greatness, by doing the grunt work and enabling their teammates to chase glory. Yes, a true leader is an enabler and not a glory hunter.
Do you think Diego Godin can do the same for Uruguay this year?

#4 Learn To Follow

Jesse Lingard of England is well, to put it politely, not Harry Kane. Known to be a late bloomer, and not the most gifted finisher or creative playmaker. But, here’s how Jesse is England’s X-Factor: He listens to the coach!

Jesse understands the importance of taking the coach’s advice, adapts his positional play, and does not fuss about taking up extra duties. He realizes the value of the mentorship he receives. After all he has gone from utility player at a lower league, to a key member of England’s successful campaign at the World Cup.

#5 Learn To Be Accountable

Football is a team sport with every player working together in tandem, taking up different duties across the pitch. While defending, there are two key tactics: Zonal or Man Marking. In both cases all 11 players have duties with regard to protecting a Zone or marking a Man.

The key lesson here is accountability. If even one player misses his Zone or Man, it could cost the team a loss. After all one moment is all it takes to turn the tides. Hence stay sharp, and make sure to showcase ownership for your Zone.

#6 Learn To Push Others

One of the more remarkable performances this world cup, have come from the Croatians. A team which depended only on their core at the mmidfield Modric & Rakitic; are now seeming like favourites.

Their secret is simple. Their core men are able to push and bring the best out of their younger and inexperienced team mates. The constant encouragement is what helps drive results, and yes they managed to beat Argentina, and top a very tricky group.

#7 Learn to stand for something

Only one team from Asia has qualified for the knockout stage, and on strange grounds. Japan owe it to their ethics to qualify. Yes you read that right, Ethics. As they were on level points with Senegal in their group and had the same goal difference, Japan moved forward due to their Fair Play.

Regret laughing at them when they decided not to appeal for fouls unnecessarily or when they denied opponents without any under handed tactics?  Standing for your ethics is essential, make sure to always stand for what’s right.

Whether you are a football fan or not, we hope these lessons will make a difference to your life. Do you have any other examples of lessons that you would like to share with us? Write to us in the comments below.

Creating community in coworking: The importance of networking and collaboration

Inspiring Stories

31 May 2024

Creating community in coworking: The importance of networking and collaboration

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

Consider this scenario: you pull yourself away from the dull light of your laptop at home, needing human interaction. Instead of deadly silence or fluorescent-lit boredom, you walk into a hive of pulsating activity. Freelancers with computers gather around a whiteboard, and a graphic designer laughs with a content writer.


This, my friend, is the magic of a successful coworking space. It’s more than simply a shared workspace; it’s a hub for connection, collaboration, and the kind of energy that drives both personal and professional development. Here’s the secret ingredient: the coworking environment.

This vibrant network of people from various backgrounds becomes the throbbing core of any outstanding coworking space. It’s where accidental discussions create game-changing ideas, and solopreneurs join a supportive network that serves as a launchpad for aspirations and an infinite source of inspiration. Unlike traditional office cubicles, coworking spaces bring together a diverse range of skills and viewpoints, producing a community co-working environment in which people actively collaborate rather than simply coexist.

Understanding Community in Coworking Spaces:

Imagine a place where the barista recalls your coffee order and a friendly face gives assistance with a technological issue. That is the charm of a vibrant community office space. It’s a location where relationships extend beyond professional courtesy. It’s about being part of a supportive network that serves as a springboard for new ideas and a source of inspiration.


Coworking facilities, by definition, foster a sense of community. Unlike typical offices, where interactions are frequently limited to colleagues, coworking facilities bring together a diverse range of individuals. Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers all interact, creating a unique ecosystem of skills and perspectives. This group collaborates, not simply coexists.


The Power of Networking in Coworking Spaces

 The importance of networking cannot be emphasised. Coworking spaces offer unprecedented opportunity for making relationships. Networking opportunities abound, whether it’s a casual talk in the common area, participation in organised events, or joining industry-specific interest groups.

These relationships can lead to productive collaborations, strategic partnerships, and even useful mentorship possibilities. Consider a graphic designer interacting with a content writer for a collaborative project, or a seasoned entrepreneur advising a new startup founder. The opportunities for growth within a successful coworking community are limitless.


Fostering Collaboration Among Coworkers


A strong coworking community is not formed overnight. Creating a collaborative environment demands a purposeful effort. Here are some approaches to make this happen. 

Organise Regular Events: Host workshops, networking mixers, or social gatherings to get people together and break the ice. These gatherings allow participants to demonstrate their skills, learn from others, and develop rapport.


Embrace open design: Instead of isolated cubicles, aim for open floor patterns with collaborative workspaces. This creates a more collaborative environment, enabling spontaneous brainstorming and knowledge exchange.


Facilitate Mentorship Programmes: Connect experienced experts with those seeking advice. This not only encourages knowledge transmission, but also generates a sense of community and belonging.


Utilise Online Platforms: Set up an online forum or social media group where members can communicate, share resources, and stay informed about upcoming activities.


Building Strong Relationships in Coworking Communities


Building solid ties within your communal work space is critical to maximising its potential. 


Here are a few tips:


Be approachable: Strike up a conversation with other users, identify yourself, and express genuine interest in their work.


Offer Assistance: Do you have knowledge in a specific field? Offer to help a fellow member who is suffering with a related task. Remember that rising tides raise all boats!


Participate actively: Participate in events, conversations, and workshops. The more engaged you are, the stronger your connections will be.


Be a good listener: People appreciate those who genuinely listen. Pay attention to others’ problems and provide assistance whenever available.

Overcoming Challenges in Community Building


Building a successful coworking community is not without its hurdles. Here are a few hurdles and ways to get through them:


Interest Diversity: Catering to everyone’s interests might be tough when you have such a diverse group. Conduct surveys and collect member input to customise events and projects to their specific requirements.


Shyness or introversion: Not everyone thrives in social situations. Provide a mix of social and solitary work locations, and encourage networking opportunities that cater to various personalities.


Maintaining Momentum: Keeping the community engaged demands a consistent effort. To keep things interesting, plan regular events, launch new projects, and aggressively solicit member feedback.

Conclusion

In today’s increasingly computerised world, human connection is still vital. Coworking spaces provide a unique opportunity to create a thriving community co-working environment that encourages networking and collaboration. Coworking spaces may become hotbeds of invention, professional development, and long-lasting friendships by cultivating a welcoming and collaborative environment. So, instead of isolating yourself through remote work, embrace the power of community. Your neighbourhood coworking space is full of opportunities for collaboration.

5 things that every startup can learn from Shahrukh Khan’s journey

Inspiring Stories

25 August 2021

5 things that every startup can learn from Shahrukh Khan’s journey

  • Posted by awfis

Bollywood and Shahrukh Khan have long been synonymous. From stage plays in his early career to 80 iconic Indian films and global stardom for over more than a decade – the Indian actor, producer and television personality has made waves in every sphere of entertainment. But, every now and then, one will often find him reminiscing his modest roots.

If you’re launching your start –up, then you’re also most likely to find yourself in times of struggle and despair. But guess what? Even the King of Bollywood has been there and done that. Here are some of the most inspiring life lessons coming straight from the Superstar, that will help you “hang in there!”

Lesson 1: Sail away from your comfort zone

“Being brave means being shit scared all the way. But, don’t let your fears become boxes that enclose you. Open them up, feel them and turn them into the greatest courage you are capable of. I promise you, nothing will go wrong. But if you live by your fears, everything that can possibly go wrong will go wrong and you won’t even have done the Funky Chicken.”

Lesson 2: Embrace the madness in you

There’s no such thing as “normal”. That’s just another word for lifeless. Madness is an absolute prerequisite to a happy and successful life. Don’t ever treat your little insanities as if they are aberrations that ought to be hidden. Acknowledge them and use them to define your own way of living the only life you have. All the most beautiful people in the world, the most creative, the ones who led revolutions, who discovered and invented things, did so because they embraced their own idiosyncrasies.”

Lesson 3: Don’t panic ever – just be positive

“When life hits you with all the force of its resplendent rage, the Rolls isn’t going to give you comfort. A friend’s grace will, and if you can’t find resolution as easily as you would like to, don’t panic. Everything evolves as you go along. Even disasters eventually resolve themselves. Give life the space to move at its own pace, pushing it ahead only by way of being kind to yourself when you are hurting or in despair.”

Life lesson 4: Ignore the naysayers

“All the names you give yourself, or those that others call you, are just labels. You are not defined by them, no matter how flattering or uncomplimentary they are. What defines you is your heart. And I say this out of experience because if I was to go by what all I am called on Social Media I would be an old desperate manipulative that has been star who swings both ways while making crap movies, and these are just the good mentions.”

Lesson 5: Stop whining and start moving

“Whatever it is that is pulling you back, it’s not going away unless you stand up and start forging your own path with all your might in the opposite direction. Don’t attach yourself to either sadness or happiness, they’re both going to change with the same certitude. Take them with the ephemeral spirit of their impermanence and manage them with a healthy dose of good humour.”

Here’s what you need first – a office space, co-working space in Qutab, New Delhi or business centre in Koramangala, Bengaluru , where you can kickstart your startup.

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#FAQatAwfis: Who Is My Ideal Target Audience?

Inspiring Stories

25 August 2021

#FAQatAwfis: Who Is My Ideal Target Audience?

  • Posted by awfis

Q1. What is my first step at targeting audiences?

It’s important to create a “why us” value proposition for your product. Be ready to stay in test and refine mode, as you move forward. Many startups and entrepreneurs get so caught up in their business plan and trying to execute it, they forget the most important aspect, which is the market. It is important to move out of your cubicle and office space and go out and discover more.

Q2. Do I start small or look at the bigger market?

You definitely need to start with the smallest group possible. It may seem contradictory to many who are starting a business, but it’s vital to find a group who think what you offer is special. Finding a narrow group with extremely specific demographics or a specifically targeted problem is the key. It’s easy to expand your reach after you gain traction, but it’s always the best to be a big player in the smaller markets.

Q3. Is it vital to keep resources aside for my research or can I just analyze?

The customers who currently buy your product are your audience and it is extremely important to understand who they are, their characteristics and their buying patterns. Analyze the elements that worked with your marketing strategy that connected with your audience. It is obviously important to invest in customer relationship management software for small businesses. Use tools and software to see your customers’ geographic distribution, age range, habits and other valuable insights.

Q4. How important is it to study the role of my competitors in the industry?

If you’re lucky and blessed, you’ve invented a product that the world has never seen. However, it isn’t so easy always. It’s extremely important to check out the competition that sells similar products to yours. Look not only at the big players, but even the upcoming startups. Start thinking of ways that would persuade your customers to switch to your product. Make your product more desirable. Study your competitors and their success and how they connected to their audiences. Along with success, study their failures as well so you can avoid them.

Q5. How to create an audience profile?

The ideal customer profile contains not only demographic but also psychographic information. Demographics describe aspects like gender, age, income, marital status, job status, education levels, etc. Psychographics identify hobbies, behaviors, habits, lifestyle choices, values, and interests. It is also important to give equal weightage to both these factors as they go hand in hand.

Q6. What is my next step?

After you have figured your audience, it is important to envision your product and your company five years into the future. Both your business and your customers need to move forward in the same direction. Be aware of all the technology changes related to your product. And remember, as your business evolves, your customer base will also shift. But once you’ve found your target audience, the transition won’t be too difficult.

Hope this would guide you into finding the ideal audience, for more queries comment below!

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