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Future proof, Skill Boost

Finding Your Passion: How to Choose the Right Career Path

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Stability, Purpose, Passion – What is the right way to choose a career? The moment you enter high school, the questions start rolling in: ‘Beta, aage kya karna hai?’ and the imaginary clock starts ticking. Should I go for entrance exams (but Mom, I like video games)? Or should I start my own startup? Wait, is there a third option? The reality is, most of us truly don’t know how to answer the ‘career question’. Choosing the right career path can feel overwhelming, but how do I even find my passion when I haven’t figured out my go-to ramen yet? Don’t worry, in this blog, I’ll share 5 practical tips to kickstart your career hunt. Before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: your passion doesn’t have to be your job, but it’s awesome when they align. STEP 1: Self- Reflection What were you interested in as a child? How did you love to spend your time? What did you want to be when you grew up? Declutter your mind of all the ‘sensible’ and ‘right’ options that you’ve been told to pursue, and let’s explore what you truly want to do. STEP 2: Value, Passion, Purpose — The trifecta of Fulfillment Ask Questions. Sit with a notepad and think thoroughly. Passion-based questions: Is there a specific way you like to spend your time? Do you find mental work or physical work easier? Which of your skills are you most confident of? Value-based questions: What is most important in your life? Where is something you do that makes you feel happy and fulfilled? What change would you like to be a part of?  (For example, Environmental change) Purpose-based questions: What does success mean to you? Which of your strengths do you honour the most?   What do you enjoy learning about? STEP 3: Discover Your Core Drivers Maybe you want a high-paying career with perks like a company apartment, or perhaps you prioritize work-life balance with more leaves and flexibility. Either way, knowing your motivations helps you navigate trade-offs and find a career that aligns with what matters most to you. Consider these key factors: 1. Compensation (salary, benefits) 2. Independence (autonomy) 3. Balance (work-life harmony) 4. Flexibility (schedule, adaptability) 5. Growth opportunities (career advancement) STEP 4: Researching Potential Career Paths So you’ve done the soul-searching and figured out your priorities. What’s Next? Facing the job market. One Google Search Goes a Long Way: Read through job descriptions and articles about different careers. If a specific task or role piques your interest, research that position and related jobs. Align your passion with market demand: Explore how your interests can lead to a viable career. For instance, if you’re a connoisseur of art, you can work in a museum, gallery, or cultural institution. Connect with mentors: Turn to a mentor in your area of interest for guidance. It could be your professor or your age-gap online friendship. Talk to a career coach: If nothing works, you can always speak to professionals who will assess your personality, consider your interests, qualifications and guide you towards a suitable career path.   STEP 5: Explore and experiment Make connections on sites like LinkedIn and reach out to professionals to learn about the daily responsibilities and work environment. Intern or job shadow: It gives you an upper hand when applying for entry-level positions if you have work experience to show. Freelance or part-time gigs: Gain experience without full time commitment. Personal projects and hobbies: Start personal projects that might help you in the long run like blogging, taking coding classes, learning new languages, or simply reading. Hands-on experience can provide clarity that research alone can’t. CTRL+Z TAKEAWAY: Just Do It Don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis! It’s easy to overthink career choices. Take the leap and try something that sparks interest. You don’t need all the answers – just start and adjust as needed. Your job doesn’t define your life. Plenty of people hate their bosses and are still kicking it at the clubs every weekend. So take a deep breath, make a decision, and remember – you can always change careers. No Comments Future proof,Skill Boost About the Author Sneha I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, I’d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writer’s block, and occasionally questioning my life choices—one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Sneha A young writer that writes about things that matter most- identity, family, adulting, digital life (or the lack of it). Sometimes, I also indulge in making memes and writing poetry; the two spectrums of creativity. I also love music and engaging in different fandoms. Always been the girl with ‘too many’ opinions and will always be one. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Future proof, Skill Boost

The Skills Gap: What Gen Z Needs to Succeed in the Future Job Market 

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The New Job Market: Learn, Adapt, and Stay Ahead The Days of ‘Just Get a Degree’ Are Gone — Here’s What You Should Do Instead Remember when all you had to do was “get a degree and you’re set”? Yeah, those days are long behind us. It is time for us to face the fact that the job market of today is changing quicker than ever before and that even the best education program isn’t enough to secure a bright future. Automation, AI, and remote work are shaking up the workplace, and employers want more than fancy diplomas. They want skills which are applicable, transferable skills that meet the demands of today’s workplace. And guess what? The skills gap is real, and it is growing wider. But don’t stress. The good news is that you can help narrow that gap. So, let’s get into those essential skills that can make you employable and future-proof. 1. Digital Fluency: Learning the Language of the Future   We live in a world where tech is not only a tool but a way of life. does not matter you work in marketing, finance or even fashion how digital platforms, data, and AI work gives you a great advantage. How to Get Ahead: Do an online course in coding, digital marketing, or AI (Coursera, Udemy, and Google Certifications are gold mines!). Explore tech experiment with automation tools, play with AI-driven software, and develop skills to analyze data like a professional. Stay curious. What’s hot today may be old tomorrow, so keep learning! 2. Adaptability & Problem Solving: Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready   The only constant in this world is change, and the fastest adapters will always be ahead. those who don’t just follow directions but also think critically, solve problems, and change when necessary will definitely have a upper hand.   Forming This Skill: Choose things you wouldn’t normally do. Solve things like puzzles: dissect them, discover creative fixes, and test your thought process. Don’t fear mistakes, learn from them. Every mistake is just another step to success. 3. Soft Skills: The One Thing AI Can’t Duplicate   AI is capable of a lot of tasks, but it still can’t replace emotional intelligence, empathy, and communication. These are the skills that will always make you irreplaceable. How to Develop Your Soft Skills: Improve your public speaking—your ability to relay ideas effectively will be great. Learn storytelling—whether in an interview, social media post, or a pitch. Build relationships—networking is not about knowing people; it’s about ensuring they remember you. 4. Entrepreneurial & Financial Mindset: You Don’t Work for a Paycheck   We Gen Z is redefining success. It’s not just about getting a 9-to-5 job but creating something of value. Financial literacy and businesses are necessary, whether it be freelancing, content creation, or a side hustle. All About Money: Learn to budget and invest early (explore Robinhood, YNAB, and Fidelity). Take up a side hustle—freelancing, selling digital products, or even YouTube. Learn the in’s and out’s of how businesses operate—because almost everyone is going to work in one, even if you won’t start one. 5. Personal Development and Career Advancement   The best never stop learning attitude. In a rapidly changing world where skills become outdated almost as fast as they’re learned, the ability to upskill continuously is your superpower. How to Keep Growing: Listen to industry top players podcasts. Take free or affordable online certifications that will improve your skill set. Keep company with people who positively influence you like mentors, friends, and even online connections. CTRL + Z Takeaways: You Control the Future   The truth? No one is giving you success on a silver plate. The competition in the job market is tough, but you can use your skills to get ahead. Stay active and adaptable, and be prepared to learn. You’re not just getting ready for a job, you’re building your own future. No Comments Future proof,Skill Boost About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Skill Boost

Don’t @ me, but the gag is real: How Gen Z is changing the language landscape  

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The ‘TikTok Tongue’ of GenZ  No cap, but language is changing for real. That was our attempt at a Gen Z intro to the blog. Let’s get real; language has always been a living, breathing thing. It adapts to the cultural shifts of the time. But with the mass migration of a dominant population to the internet sphere, the change is rapid and fast. Fresh wave of new slang every week. Emoji is a language on its own. Casual email sign-offs. Take your pick! So, what does all of this mean for the future of language? In this blog, we discuss how Gen Z Internet lingo is impacting spoken language to the extent of even influencing the Oxford Dictionary. After all, “brain rot” was Oxford’s word of the year for 2024! Social Media & Gen Z’s New Lingo Social media’s been around for a while, but now short-form videos (15 to 60 sec clips) are the new wave. Think TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Stories, YouTube Shorts, and Snapchat. What it offers: visual stimulation, to-the-point content, and authenticity. These platforms give rise to new slang terms, memes, and challenges that quickly manifest in everyday spoken language. However, with the nature of these platforms, when trends die, so does the usage or relevance of the particular term. Yes, I am looking at you, the “Skibidi” gang. When the millennials pioneered spaces like Twitter and Facebook, their linguistic style blended between formal and informal English. Though they did use emojis and memes, Gen Zs have taken it to a new level. Gen Z, the scrolling and click-friendly generation, often consumes short, concise messages in the form of images and videos. Thus, there seems to be a lingual shift towards a more universal, pictorial form of communication that can transcend language barriers. Workplace Communication Not saying ‘Thank you for your input’ has turned into ‘Mind your business,’ but there’s definitely been a shift in workplace language—going from formal and detached to casual and authentic. Gen Z’s value driven politics and demand for authenticity are definitely showing up in the workplace. From embracing non-binary pronouns to calling out corporate speak, their linguistic style is inclusive and bullshit-free. A growing trend of professional communication through emails and instant messaging, where a more conversational tone is preferred, has become the norm. What It All Means: The Future of Language When phrases become mainstream, they lose their exclusivity- aka, their ‘aura’ in Gen Z terms. Regional dialects and slang aren’t as distinct as they used to be. With the digital nativity of the Gen Z population, you may have noticed how similar our language is, no matter where we’re from? Social media has created this shared linguistic experience among young people globally. Many new words have emerged and entered mainstream usage. Expressions like ‘bet’ instead of ‘yep’ and ‘woke’ for the politically aware are AAVE (African American Vernacular English) terms. They are inspired by Black and Latino LGBT cultures in the US and have significantly influenced contemporary slang. There has been an increase in the phenomenon of “verbing,” where nouns are turned into verbs, like “DMing” and “Googling”. While grammatical changes in language are slower, more people are adopting the American way of pronouncing some words. CTRL+Z TAKEAWAYS Young people have always driven language change as a way to set themselves apart from older generations. What we can agree on is the pace at which language changes today is unprecedented compared to pre-internet times, when linguistic shifts occurred much more slowly. As we ride this wave of change, it’s important to embrace it, but also keep in mind how much diversity matters in language. What’s your favorite Gen Z slang? No Comments Skill Boost About the Author Sneha I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, I’d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writer’s block, and occasionally questioning my life choices—one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Sneha I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, I’d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writer’s block, and occasionally questioning my life choices—one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Skill Boost, The Mash UP

Essential Life Skills They Don’t Teach in School 

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Survival Skills School Forgot to Teach  School has taught us how to solve x, memorize the periodic table, and write essays, but when it comes to real-life skills like managing money, dealing with stress, or even cooking a decent meal, most of us are left searching the internet for answers. As GenZ, we’re living in a world that’s changing faster than ever, and there are some essential life skills that no one’s teaching us in class. 1. Financial Literacy: How to Handle Your Money   Let’s start with the big one “money”. Schools rarely teach us how to budget, save, or invest, but managing your finances is super important. Here’s the cheat sheet: 2. Emotional Intelligence: How to Handle Your Feelings (and Others’)   Life isn’t just about filling papers in exams. it’s also about managing relationships and emotions; to understand and control your emotions while having empathy for others feelings. Here’s how to get better at it: 3. Time Management: How to Stop Procrastinating (For Real)   Between school, work, social life, and binge-watching Netflix, time can feel like it’s slipping away. Learning to manage your time is key to staying productive without burning out. Try these tips: 4. Cooking Basics: How to Not Live on Instant Noodles   Sure, delivery apps are convenient, but knowing how to cook saves money and keeps you healthy. Start with these basics: 5. Networking: How to Build Real Connections   It’s not just about who you know, it’s about how you connect with them. Networking can open doors to opportunities, whether it’s a job, mentorship, or collaboration. Here’s how to do it right: 6. Basic Home Maintenance: How to Adult Like a Pro   No one’s coming to fix your broken tap or clear your blocked drain (unless you want to pay money for it). Learn these basic home skills to save money and stress: 7. Critical Thinking: How to Spot Fake News Online   In the age of misinformation, critical thinking is more important than ever. Try to think on your own to segregate what are the correct and fake ones 8. Self-Care: How to Take Care of Your Mental Health   Life can be overwhelming, and self-care isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessity to lead a stress free life. Here’s how to prioritize your mental health: Final Thoughts   School didn’t teach us everything, but we can still succeed! Learn these essential life skills to tackle whatever comes your way. Remember, it’s okay to learn as you go-on one take it step by step and ask for help when you need it. No Comments Skill Boost,The Mash UP About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Creative Juice, Skill Boost

Photography On Your Phone 

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Pro Tips for stunning shots  Phone cameras have become essential tools for capturing life’s moments, from mirror selfies and stunning sunsets to candid shots with friends. Mobile photography is a significant part of Gen-Z life, and having a high-quality camera at your fingertips is incredibly convenient. But what if you could enhance your shots and make them look even more impressive? No need for a fancy DSLR; just a few clever hacks, and you’ll be snapping stunning photos in no time. 1. Clean Your Lens (Yes, Seriously!)   Sounds basic, right? But you’d be surprised how much dust, smudges, and fingerprints can ruin a perfectly good shot. A quick wipe with a soft cloth can instantly improve clarity and sharpness. 2. Find the Best Lighting   Lighting is everything in photography. Natural light, especially during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset), gives your photos a warm, dreamy glow. If you’re indoors, try to face a window for soft, flattering light. Harsh overhead lighting? No thanks. 3. Rule of Thirds = Instant Upgrade Most phone cameras have a grid option—turn it on! The rule of thirds helps balance your composition by placing key elements at the intersection of the grid lines. Your photos will instantly look more professional and visually appealing. 4. Play with Perspectives   Instead of always shooting from eye level, switch it up. Try shooting from a lower angle for a powerful, dramatic effect or from above for a clean, flat-lay aesthetic. Experiment with angles to make everyday scenes look extraordinary. 5. Focus & Adjust Exposure Manually   Tap on your subject to focus and hold down to lock it. You can also slide your finger up or down to adjust brightness (exposure) instead of relying on automatic settings. This gives you more control over the final look. 6. Optimize Camera Settings   Your phone camera has hidden gems in its settings that can elevate your photography. Switch to HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode for better-balanced lighting, especially in high-contrast scenes. Use Pro mode (if available) to tweak ISO manually, shutter speed, and white balance for maximum control. Adjust the resolution and frame rate for sharper images and smoother videos. 7. Edit Like a Pro   Raw photos are just the beginning. Apps like Lightroom, VSCO, and Snapseed can take your shots to the next level. Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation to make your images pop while keeping them natural. Just don’t overdo it—nobody likes an over-filtered pic. 8. Ditch the Zoom, Get Closer   Digital zoom lowers image quality, making photos look grainy and pixelated. Instead of zooming in, move closer to your subject for sharper, more detailed shots. 9. Capture Motion with Burst Mode   Whether you’re photographing a friend mid-jump or a pet in action, burst mode (holding down the shutter button) is your best friend. It takes multiple shots in seconds, letting you pick the best one. 10. Background Matters   A cluttered background can ruin an otherwise great photo. Look for clean, minimalistic backgrounds or use portrait mode to create a blurred (bokeh) effect that keeps the focus on your subject. 11. Experiment with Night Mode   Low-light photography used to be a struggle, but phone cameras now have powerful night modes. Use it to capture stunning shots in dim lighting without the harshness of a flash. CTRL+Z Takeaways You don’t need expensive gear to take breathtaking photos—just your phone and a little creativity. With these tips, you can capture scroll-stopping shots that make people wonder if you hired a pro. So go out, experiment, and most importantly—have fun with it! No Comments Creative Juice,Skill Boost About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse