Latest news with #Mindtalk
Indian Express
4 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
Millennial Nod is the internet's new obsession after the Gen Z Stare; here's what it teaches us about generational differences in workplace behaviour
First came the infamous 'Gen Z Stare,' defined as a blank, unreadable expression that's become a viral symbol of how the younger generation communicates, especially at work. Now, in a playful cultural twist, Gen Z has turned the spotlight onto millennials, calling out what they see as an equally odd habit: the 'Millennial Nod.' It's the compulsive, overly-affirmative head bob you might catch yourself doing in every conversation, be it at meetings, in casual chats, or even while simply listening. Often paired with a polite smile, the Millennial Nod is being called out as performative, overly accommodating, and sometimes even emotionally exhausting. What started as a harmless social cue has turned into a generational symbol of deeper differences in communication styles, emotional boundaries, and workplace behaviour. Neha Parashar, clinical psychologist, Mindtalk, tells 'Millennials often rely on gestures like nodding or smiling as a way to convey attentiveness, warmth, and agreement. This behavior has been shaped over time by both social conditioning and workplace expectations. Many millennials entered professional environments during a period that emphasised collaboration, emotional intelligence, and approachability. Non-verbal cues like smiling and nodding became soft skills that signaled engagement and team spirit.' Additionally, she mentions that digital communication tools like video conferencing have made visible affirmations more important. In the absence of face-to-face interaction, a nod or smile is often used to compensate for silence, reassure the speaker, or show active listening. Over time, these cues may have become ingrained in their communication style both professionally and socially. Gen Z's subtler approach to expression is not necessarily a sign of disinterest or lack of empathy. Instead, Parashar notes that it often reflects 'a different cultural and digital upbringing.' This generation has grown up with constant exposure to fast-paced, highly visual content, and they tend to value authenticity over performance in communication. Overuse of gestures may come across to them as performative or inauthentic. Minimal expression is, for many Gen Z individuals, a form of conserving emotional energy and maintaining personal boundaries. It is also a way to express calmness or neutrality without feeling pressure to constantly affirm others. 'Understanding this shift means recognising that communication styles are evolving and that different does not always mean disrespectful,' stresses the expert. One of the healthiest ways to bridge generational communication gaps is to practice curiosity rather than judgement. 'When we notice differences in expression or response, instead of assuming disengagement or insincerity, we can ask ourselves what values or experiences might be informing that behaviour,' explains Parashar. In professional or personal settings, she explains, it helps to openly discuss preferred communication styles. 'For example, a millennial might say they tend to nod as a way to show they are listening, while a Gen Z individual might share that their quietness is not disinterest but comfort. These conversations can build empathy and reduce assumptions.' Above all, recognising that no single style is superior encourages mutual respect.
Indian Express
4 days ago
- Sport
- Indian Express
‘Jo last time baat hui thi…': Yuzvendra Chahal opens up about going no-contact with ex-wife Dhanashree Verma before filing for divorce; why space can aid healing
When a relationship ends, the process of emotional separation often extends far beyond the legal paperwork. Many find themselves grappling with lingering emotions, silent wounds, and the practical challenges of cutting ties. Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal recently offered a rare insight into what it looks like to emotionally disengage after divorce. Speaking to Raj Shamani, he shared that he has not been on talking terms with his ex-wife, Dhanashree Verma, since their separation. 'Jo last time baat hui thi, woh bhi hamari lawyer ke through hui thi, I think September something, kuch hamara tha. Nahi, auction se pehle to ho hi nahi rahi thi. Par jo last time video hua tha, uske baad kabhi baat nahi hui. 6-7 mahine ho gaye honge. Matlab sirf kuch kaam ka tha, to kuch cheez hogi to. Bas uske baad nahi (The last time we spoke, it was also through our lawyer, I think sometime in September, something was going on. No, there was no conversation before the auction at all. But after the last video happened, we haven't spoken since. It must have been 6-7 months. I mean, it was only about some work, so only if there was something specific. But after that, nothing).' He added that after the World Cup, things ended completely, and there was no personal communication unless necessary. Their approach reflects a firm boundary, a choice not to stay connected simply because of shared history. Neha Parashar, clinical psychologist, Mindtalk, tells 'The decision to go no contact after a breakup or divorce depends on the nature of the relationship and the emotional needs of the individuals involved. For many, taking space is an important step toward healing. It allows time to process emotions, reestablish a sense of self, and create boundaries that might have been blurred during the relationship.' However, in some cases, limited and respectful communication can be healthy, she adds, especially if both individuals have reached a place of emotional clarity. This approach is more likely to be effective when the breakup is mutual, amicable, and not rooted in unresolved conflict or trauma. When communication with an ex-partner is unavoidable due to shared responsibilities such as co-parenting, legal agreements, or financial matters, setting clear boundaries is key. 'One helpful approach is to keep conversations focused, brief, and purpose-driven. Communicating through written formats like email or text can help create emotional distance while maintaining clarity and documentation,' notes Parashar. It is also helpful to decide in advance what topics are appropriate and what topics should be avoided. Staying rooted in the present and addressing only what is necessary can prevent conversations from becoming emotionally charged. If emotions begin to surface, it is entirely okay to pause the interaction and return to it later with a clearer mindset. For many people, Parashar observes, avoiding communication post-breakup 'can offer the space needed to grieve, reflect, and rebuild.' This pause often creates room for personal growth and emotional clarity. However, if the relationship ended with unresolved emotions or unanswered questions, complete silence may leave some feelings unprocessed. Closure is not always about having one final conversation. It can also come from introspection, support from trusted friends, therapy, or simply the passage of time. That said, for individuals who feel they need answers to move forward, a respectful and well-timed conversation can sometimes provide relief and perspective.
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘He is 65, literally grandparents ka generation': Netizens react to Suniel Shetty's comment on marriages; expert on balancing gender roles in parenting
When actor Suniel Shetty recently shared his thoughts on marriage and parenting in an interview, his comments ignited a wave of backlash online. Speaking to Pinkvilla, he said, 'Shaadi kya chiz hai mujhe samajh mein hi nahi aata. Bachhon mein patience hai hi nahi. Shaadi kuch time ke baad ek samjhauta hota hai (I don't understand what marriage is anymore. Kids these days have no patience. Marriage is a compromise after some time), where you have to understand each other, and live for each other. Uske baad ek bacha aata hai, aur patni ko yeh jaan na zaruri hai ki husband career banayega toh bachhe ko main dekh rahi hoon (Then comes a child, and the wife needs to know that if the husband makes a career, I will take care of the kids). Husband, of course, saath mein dekhega hi. Aaj kal sab cheez mein pressure bohot ho gaya hai, kyuki gyaan dene wale bohot log hain. (The husband will, of course, look after them together, but there is a lot of pressure in everything these days, because there are a lot of people to give you unsolicited advice).' He added, 'I think experience se hum seekhe toh better hota hai (if we learn, it is better) – from the mother, from the naani, from the daadi, the sister, the in-laws. I think woh cheez bohot maine rakhta hai (That is very important, I think).' His remarks, suggesting that the wife should take primary responsibility for raising a child so that her husband can focus on his career, drew strong criticism on social media platforms. Many netizens didn't hold back. While some called his mindset outdated and 'typical of Indian uncles,' others described it as outright misogynistic. One Reddit user commented, 'Honestly, guys why are you surprised. He is not exactly speaking for our generation. He is 65, literally grandparents ka generation.' Another wrote, 'So he's a typical misogynist,' while one user remarked, 'I'm a hard-core feminist. Yeah, he's imagining a world where husband is the one working, and life can continue on a single income. But there's nothing intentionally sexist about it.' Neha Parashar, clinical psychologist, Mindtalk, tells 'This assumption stems from deeply entrenched gender roles that view caregiving as a woman's natural duty and career-building as a man's. When society reinforces this narrative, it strips both partners of the opportunity to choose roles based on personal strengths, preferences, or practical realities.' Psychologically, she mentions that it positions motherhood as an obligation rather than a choice, which can lead to 'internalised guilt or resentment in women who wish to pursue professional goals.' It also places undue pressure on men to be sole providers, potentially cutting them off from emotionally rewarding aspects of parenthood. 'The first step is to remove the idea that caregiving has a default gender. Parenting needs to be viewed as a skill set, not a role based on gender. Couples should actively discuss their expectations, values, and support systems even before the child arrives,' notes Parashar. In dual-income households, transparency and planning are key. This means dividing responsibilities not just based on availability but also taking into account each partner's emotional bandwidth, career stages, and long-term goals. Most importantly, couples must give each other permission to be vulnerable, tired, or imperfect. Co-parenting is about mutual respect and emotional presence from both sides, concludes the expert.
Indian Express
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘I am open to what the future…': What Dhanashree Verma's response to hate and name-calling after divorce from Yuzvendra Chahal tells us about healing from emotional trauma
Dhanashree Verma has broken her silence on the hate and name-calling she faced following her divorce from Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal. The separation wasn't without noise — memes flooded social media with many calling her a gold-digger, and public judgement followed her every move. But Dhanashree remained steady. 'It doesn't bother me at all! I have surrounded myself with great inner strength, and I am so dedicated that my focus has always been on my work, as I have a lot of responsibilities. I have guarded myself and have built myself so strong that I just focus on my work, which will speak for everything,' she said in an interview with Times of India. 'The negativity and public criticism have never really bothered me since day 1, and it will never bother me ever.' The 28-year-old choreographer added that she now filters out anything that doesn't serve her personal growth. 'I have been working on myself even more now… I have completely changed my lifestyle and am focusing on self-love, inner strength, discipline, exercise, good food, and surrounding myself with people who look up to me. I want to be a part of a journey that inspires people around me.' And while her first marriage may have ended on a difficult note, her faith in love remains intact. 'I will always say and believe that love is a beautiful aspect of life, and your understanding of it evolves over time… I am open to what the future holds for me, but for now, it is my career and my family that are of utmost importance to me.' Neha Parashar, clinical psychologist at Mindtalk, tells 'Emotional resilience in the face of public criticism isn't about becoming immune to pain, it's about learning how to process that pain in healthy ways. One of the most powerful tools in building this resilience is self-awareness. When individuals are anchored in their values and have a clear sense of identity, external opinions tend to hold less power over their emotional state.' Cultivating a routine that includes grounding practices, whether mindfulness, journaling, therapy, or even just time away from screens, helps create a mental buffer. In addition, reframing the narrative around public criticism (e.g., recognising that hate often says more about the speaker than the subject) can lessen its emotional impact. Dhanashree spoke about changing her lifestyle, focusing on self-love, exercising, and surrounding herself with supportive people. 'These strategies may seem simple on the surface, but they are incredibly effective because they address both the body and the mind. Exercise, for instance, is not just about physical health, it's a proven way to regulate mood, improve sleep, and release pent-up emotions. Similarly, self-love isn't about indulgence; it's about treating oneself compassionately, especially during vulnerable periods,' states Parashar. Having a supportive circle is equally critical. Parashar notes that emotional recovery is not a solitary journey; trusted relationships provide validation, perspective, and a safe healing space. 'Over time, these practices help rebuild a sense of emotional safety and confidence, allowing individuals to move forward with more clarity and strength.'
Indian Express
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘People can say…': Armaan Malik says his bond with brother Amaal is ‘solid' even after the latter stepped back from family; balancing mental health and boundaries
Armaan and Amaal Malik have long been admired for their deep musical synergy and brotherly bond. Known for their collaboration on several soulful tracks, the duo seemed inseparable — professionally and personally. But in March 2025, Amaal's emotional Instagram post left fans stunned. He shared that he had been diagnosed with clinical depression and was stepping back from personal ties with his family. In that same post, he wrote, 'From now on, my interactions with my family will be strictly professional. This isn't a decision made in anger but one born from the necessity to heal and reclaim my life.' He also acknowledged the impact this had on his relationship with his younger brother, writing, 'Yes, I have only myself to blame for my actions, but my self-worth has been diminished countless times by the actions of near and dear ones who stole pieces of my soul.' Though he later deleted the post and urged people not to harass his parents, fans continued to speculate about the brothers' bond. Armaan Malik finally broke his silence recently, reaffirming the strength of their connection. Speaking to Hindustan Times, he said, 'Our bond is and will always be the same,' adding, 'People can say what they want, but I know what I share with my brother. We're solid. It (BB) is composed by Amaal, and I've sung it. We're looking at releasing it in about a month,' revealing that the brothers are continuing their collaboration in music. Neha Parashar, clinical psychologist, Mindtalk, tells 'When a family member chooses to set boundaries for their mental well-being, it can be emotionally complex for everyone involved, especially siblings who may maintain close ties with the same family. In such cases, the most supportive thing a sibling can do is validate their loved one's need for space without trying to 'fix' the situation.' A post shared by ARMAAN MALIK (@armaanmalik) She adds that it's important for the sibling to recognise that love can exist alongside distance. Emotional neutrality and active listening become crucial, acknowledging the sibling's experience without immediately drawing comparisons or trying to mediate. Each person's relationship with family is unique, and honoring those individual journeys, even if they diverge, helps maintain mutual respect. Emotional reassurance is vital, Parashar says, especially during times of familial discord. Armaan's statement reflects something deeply protective, an affirmation that their bond is intact, even when the broader family dynamics are in flux. 'Such reassurance serves as an emotional anchor. It reinforces trust, counters feelings of isolation, and creates a safe psychological space within the relationship. In many cases, when external narratives or judgments threaten to define one's reality, this kind of unwavering loyalty becomes both grounding and healing,' states the expert. Parashar suggests, 'Families can protect themselves by setting internal ground rules, choosing not to respond to rumors, limiting social media exposure, and designating safe spaces for emotional expression. It also helps to have a united front rooted in empathy rather than defense, supporting the individual without needing to constantly clarify or justify their choices publicly. Therapy or family counselling can be instrumental during these times, not just for the individual, but for the entire support system. Healing often requires boundaries not just within the family, but also between the family and the outside world.'
