# data[].attributes.body
This space, they proclaimed, for thoughts brave and free,

A mirror reflecting what truly we see.

So I offer this poem, a stark, honest gaze,

Let's see if it vanishes in management's haze.

"What Keeps Me Going?" – Oh, the brilliant new scheme!

A corporate balm, a motivational dream.

When budgets are tight, and the coffers are bare,

A "space to share feelings" floats right through the air!

They talk of "well-being," of "purpose" and "pride,"

While our wallets are shrinking, nowhere to hide.

For the shambolic decisions of bygone days.

While the "funds" which we raised evaporated, you see.

"You can leave if it's difficult," a kind voice once said,

A benevolent whisper inside of my head.

But what truly keeps me? The bills piling high,

The dread in my stomach, the tear in my eye.

So let's share our "wins," our small team's brave fight,

As the ship slowly sinks, but the PowerPoint's bright.

"What Keeps Me Going?" – the irony stings,

It's the need for a paycheck, and not these grand things.

# data[].attributes.body
Being in nature keeps me going. No matter how stressful or busy things are, I try to get outside every day, even if only for 10 minutes. In the UK, I appreciate the squirrels, the birds, the trees and even the rain. In Sri Lanka, I am lucky to have sunshine, tropical birds and even monkeys on a good day. It doesn't really matter where I am or what kind of nature I can find nearby - it always restores me and puts things in perspective.

# data[].attributes.headline
An Hour for Me: The Power of My Gym Routine

# data[].attributes.subject
An Hour for Me: The Power of My Gym Routine

# data[].attributes.body
My workout sessions at the gym have become a vital part of my routine, an hour that I dedicate solely to myself. It’s my time to disconnect from the hustle and just focus on me—my body, my mind, and my well-being. While physically, it strengthens my body, increases my endurance, and boosts my energy, more importantly -mentally, it clears my head, allowing me to push through stress and anxiety, while helping me stay sharp and focused. Also, it’s a reminder that I am worthy of taking care of myself, giving me a sense of accomplishment and boosting my confidence. Each session serves as a reminder that investing in myself isn’t just about looking good, but about feeling good—inside and out.

# data[].attributes.body
I'm very curious and always trying to find new things to fill pieces of my day, the latest include doing my own leather shoes from scratch, solving a 1,000 piece puzzle, and the neverending quest for the perfect microfoam on my capuccino, but there's a particular one I've been enjoying so much lately, my 8 year old daughter came up to me one day and out of the blue told me, HUGGY?, to which of course I said yes and she gave the most powerful hug, and left, it was a 5 second interaction that left me all energised for at least a couple of hours, until I then shouted from the second floor, HUUUGGGGYYYY???, and she suddenly appeared out of nowhere for another 5-second dose of energy. We've been doing this for the last couple of weeks and it doesn't grow old, and it really keeps me going. P.S. if you want to try at home (with anyone), once it matures after a few days, sneak in a cheeky: KISSY? and it rounds it all up.

# data[].attributes.body
I'd take my bicycle out for a spin, preferably on the outskirts of the crowded city, and close to the nature. It helps me to think clearly, feel good physically, and be at peace with myself.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
A tarot spread that helped me reflect and connect with myself

# data[].attributes.body
From time to time, I seek out spaces- where I can reflect, express myself freely and confide with someone in a non-judgemental space. It can be a life coach, a therapist, a trusted friend. A few months ago, I had a tarot session with someone who uses tarot creatively as a means of reflection (very different from fortune telling or life predictions :)) and it was a nourishing experience. I came out of the session with my 'spirit being' - the Daughter of Wands (for fellow tarot enthusiasts), which has really helped me navigate some challenges and see myself for who I am.

For me, a 'quick fix' when I am having one-of-those-days when nothing seems to be going 'right', and I feel like I don't have the energy to deal with things is: I snooze! Literally get into my blanket and take a nap, some times for hours--create my own cocoon. When I wake up, of course things haven't changed probably, but I feel recharged and more able to handle things/circumstances.

# data[].attributes.body
Not long ago, I visited my village, Utmanzai, a small town in Charsadda, for a family function and gathering. A local teacher, frustrated by outdated education policies and crumbling infrastructure, spoke up. She compared today’s challenges with the lasting systems from British times. She then shared how a programme from British (referring British Council’s Edge program) transformed the confidence and communication skills of young girls in the school. She described how these girls were now mentoring others, reading more, and even leading discussions in English something that once felt out of reach.

She didn’t know I worked for the British Council. Listening to her speak so passionately about the impact and the goodwill the British Council had earned was a humbling and affirming moment for me. It reminded me that our work travels far beyond our screens and meeting rooms. It reaches classrooms, communities, and futures. That story added to what keeps me going on tough days. It reminds me that even when we don’t see the results immediately, the seeds we plant grow often in invisible ways.

Our work matters more than we know.

By the way, the picture I uploaded is my daughter Mirha, she also keeps me going on tough days.

# data[].attributes.body
I have promises to keep,

and miles to go before I sleep...

This keeps me going, this reminder to myself. I am a mother, and my son needs me until he finds a firm footing - he is able to support himself emotionally and financially. I must do everything I can to meet his educational expenses.

I have a husband who is suffering from end-stage kidney disease. I promised to be with him through sickness and health. he needs me now more than ever. I have to be there for him.

when I look at their faces I know it. I have to keep going.

# data[].attributes.body
Tomorrow (23 May) I take part in the Sri Lanka Open National championship in mixed doubles! If you want to come along and support and if you are based in Sri Lanka its at 4.30 pm at Lumbini College Sports complex! Come along with your pom poms!

# data[].attributes.body
Many years ago, someone envisioned a brighter future for the generations of the 1900 era, where global leaders united to provide a nurturing environment and a safe haven for future generations, transcending geographical boundaries. All the global educators, regardless of their field, poured their hearts, time, funds, and daily sacrifices into shaping the world into a peaceful and prosperous place for everyone. I am deeply committed to preserving the legacy of these compassionate leaders who dreamed of creating a better planet. In my work here, I have discovered that over the past 90 years, many have joined this company to contribute to that noble goal. It is the sincere spirit behind the foundations laid in the British Council to create better opportunities through cultural understanding and language. I log in daily, trusting that the processes established by these visionary leaders are for the better future and wellbeing of every individual, so that they, in turn, can create a brighter future and contribute to the greater good. As Warren Buffett once said, 'Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago'

# data[].attributes.headline
یہ چیز مجھے آگے بڑھتے رہنے دیتی ہے

# data[].attributes.subject
یہ چیز مجھے آگے بڑھتے رہنے دیتی ہے

# data[].attributes.body
ننھے منہ بچوں کی سچائی

بوڑھوں کی شفقت

نوجوان کا علم و ہنر

اساتذہ کی تعلیم و تربیت اور

سب سے بڑھ کر انسانیت کے لئے درد دل

ہی ایسی چیز ہے

جو مجھے آگے بڑھتے رہنے کا درس دیتی ہے

اگرچہ کے دنیا کی بڑھتی ماحولیاتی آلودگی اور

روز بروز کی سماجی دوری

جو دنیا کو صرف مایوسی میں دھکیل رہی ہے

ایسے میں کچھ عظیم درد دل رکھنے والے انسان

جو کہ سماجی برابری کہ لئے جدوجہد کرتے ہیں

اور پسماندہ طبقات کو آگے لانے کا جتن کرتے ہیں

یہی وہ لوگ ہیں جو آج کے لا ينحل مسائل حل کرنے اور انسانی زندگی کا رخ بدلنے کی قوت رکھتے ہیں

ان کا ساتھ دینے کی خواہش ہی مجھے زندگی میں آگے بڑھنے دیتی ہے۔

نعيم سعيد 22 مئی 2025 راولپنڈی

# data[].attributes.body
Truthfulness of kids

Compassion of the elderly

Knowledge and skills of youth

Valuable education provided by teachers

and above all else

Our compassion for humanity

is the thing

that provides a lesson of life

to keep going

Although there is increasing environmental pollution and

ever increasing polarization in the world

which is pushing the world again into the dark ages

There are people who are compassionate for mankind and keep striving for the downtrodden.

These are the people

who possess the ability to solve all today's problems and changing our destinies.

My desire to supporting these Bravehearts is the thing that keeps me going.

# data[].attributes.body
This space, they proclaimed, for thoughts brave and free,

A mirror reflecting what truly we see.

So I offer this poem, a stark, honest gaze,

Let's see if it vanishes in management's haze.

"What Keeps Me Going?" – Oh, the brilliant new scheme!

A corporate balm, a motivational dream.

When budgets are tight, and the coffers are bare,

A "space to share feelings" floats right through the air!

They talk of "well-being," of "purpose" and "pride,"

While our wallets are shrinking, nowhere to hide.

For the shambolic decisions of bygone days.

While the "funds" which we raised evaporated, you see.

"You can leave if it's difficult," a kind voice once said,

A benevolent whisper inside of my head.

But what truly keeps me? The bills piling high,

The dread in my stomach, the tear in my eye.

So let's share our "wins," our small team's brave fight,

As the ship slowly sinks, but the PowerPoint's bright.

"What Keeps Me Going?" – the irony stings,

It's the need for a paycheck, and not these grand things.

# data[].attributes.headline
Rallies of Resilience: Roots, Rackets, and Rising Again!

# data[].attributes.subject
Rallies of Resilience: Roots, Rackets, and Rising Again!

# data[].attributes.body
In the quiet moments and the chaos alike, it’s my family that anchors me. Their love is the constant in a world that often feels uncertain — a warm embrace, a shared laugh, a reminder that I’m never alone. They are my team, my cheerleaders, and my safe place.

Tennis is where I find my rhythm. On the court, every serve, every rally, every point is a chance to reset — to fight, to focus, to grow. It teaches me resilience, patience, and the beauty of starting over with every game. It’s more than a sport; it’s a metaphor for life.

And then there’s hope — the quiet, persistent belief that good days are not just behind us, but ahead too. That no matter how long the night, the sun always rises. I hold onto that hope, tightly, because it reminds me that even in the hardest seasons, joy can return.

These three — family, tennis, and hope — are what keep me going. They remind me that I’m stronger than I think, and that the best is yet to come.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A serene and inspiring digital artwork that symbolizes the themes of family, tennis, and hope. The s

# data[].attributes.body
One of the things that keeps me going is a weekly salsa class. I have to concentrate so hard on my footwork and not falling over with all the twirling, that all work stresses and even thoughts of work are pushed completely out of mind. I also go swimming and to the gym. Forcing ourselves to focus on something other than work and taking care of our physical health are vital during challenging times

# data[].attributes.body
For me, it's the joy of learning, especially languages. I'm currently learning Spanish (and hoping to explore Persian soon!) and spend an hour or two each day studying through online platforms.

This passion began at a prestigious institute where I met inspiring teachers from Spain and Latin America who made learning a beautiful mix of language and culture. Even after switching to online learning due to personal commitments, my motivation hasn’t faded.

What truly uplifts me is when Spanish-speaking visitors occasionally come to the Council. Being able to connect with them in their language fills me with pride, and seeing their faces light up with a smile makes it all the more rewarding. It’s these small, meaningful interactions that keep me motivated, curious, and connected.

# data[].attributes.body
For me, making sure I prioritise the gym at least 3 days a week is key for my mental well-being, as much as my physical health. I know that it's going to be a tough week if I don't manage to get in a workout or two, and paradoxically, things somehow seem to be more manageable if I've managed to burn off some steam on the treadmill. (It also means I can indulge more in the huge range of food options here in Thailand!).

# data[].attributes.body
What Keeps Me Going: A Journey Fuelled by Purpose, Passion, and Possibility

Every morning, I wake with a sense of direction—not always crystal clear, but steady and insistent. It’s a quiet voice that reminds me why I do what I do. That voice is rooted in Ikigai—a beautiful Japanese concept meaning “a reason for being.” It lies at the intersection of what I love, what I’m good at, what the world needs, and what I can be rewarded for.

When these elements align, something powerful happens. I find a deeper motivation—one that extends beyond ambition. It keeps me grounded and gives me room to dream, especially when the road ahead is uncertain.

What I Love

I love to create, to solve, to challenge the status quo. I’m endlessly curious about how things work—and more importantly, how they could work better. That curiosity is not idle; it’s active and relentless. It pushes me to ask hard questions, design bold solutions, and imagine new possibilities.

There’s a unique joy I find in building—whether it’s a process, a product, or a fresh idea. That creative spark carries me through long hours, slow progress, and moments of doubt. It’s not just what I love—it’s what sustains me.

What I’m Good At

Over time, I’ve developed the ability to navigate uncertainty with composure and clarity. I connect dots others might miss. Whether through structured problem solving, data driven thinking, or deep listening, I’ve built a skill set that helps me innovate with intent—even when the outcome isn’t fully known.

One of the clearest examples of this was during the COVID19 pandemic. Like many, I found myself in unfamiliar territory: priorities shifted overnight, timelines vanished, and decisions had to be made with limited information. Rather than freeze, I took it one day at a time. Each morning, I asked myself a simple question: What can I contribute today that moves us forward, even a little?

Some days, that meant designing a new process that brought clarity to chaos. Other days, it meant simply listening—really listening—to colleagues overwhelmed by uncertainty. I also made a habit of sharing thoughts and ideas, even when I wasn’t sure they were fully formed. Some were adopted. Others weren’t. But I learned that the act of sharing mattered more than the outcome. It invited collaboration, sparked better solutions, and kept the energy flowing when momentum felt hard to find.

That experience taught me that progress is rarely linear—and clarity often comes after action, not before. Moving forward, however imperfectly, is sometimes the most courageous thing you can do.

What the World Needs

The world is full of gaps—inefficiencies, inequities, missed opportunities. But within those gaps lie the seeds of meaningful change.

What the world needs is not just more ideas, but thoughtful, sustainable, human centered solutions. It needs people who care not only about what they build, but why they build it. That’s where I feel most called—not to chase trends, but to solve real problems with long term value.

Whether it’s improving a system, automating a process, or rethinking how we engage with technology, I want to help shape a future that is smarter, fairer, and more humane.

What I Can Be Rewarded For

While recognition isn’t my primary driver, it plays a role—it validates the journey, supports reinvestment, and fuels continued growth.

In that spirit, one of my long-term goals is to earn at least two patents within the next decade. Not for ego, but because each patent would represent something meaningful: a breakthrough worth protecting, scaling, and sharing.

To me, a patent is more than a certificate. It’s a symbol of persistence, originality, and usefulness. It’s proof that I dared to imagine—and followed through.

Why It All Matters

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: we can leave the world better than we found it.

I want to build things that matter—tools, systems, ideas—that make someone’s life easier, more just, or more inspired. And I understand that lasting impact rarely comes without resistance. It takes grit, agility, and the willingness to move forward through ambiguity.

That’s why I try to contribute daily, even if the impact isn’t always immediate or visible. I’ve learned to keep showing up, to keep sharing—because each idea, each effort, each conversation is a step forward. Not every step will be a breakthrough. But taken together, they build momentum. They build meaning.

My Ikigai isn’t a finish line. It’s a living compass—always evolving, always guiding. Some days the progress is slow. Some ideas don’t land. But the vision remains: to innovate with integrity, create with compassion, and leave behind something that speaks louder than words.

That’s what keeps me going.

# data[].attributes.body
I feel very lucky that the work which I should have done anyway out of passion, is my profession. Our work is about learning, lifting others and feeling joy in seeing others succeeding and also doing this work with great colleagues...plus ending the day when sun is still out and Margala hills are still green in Islamabad while travelling back!

# data[].attributes.body
Being a mom, is a big motivation, spending time with my son, providing for him and taking care of him keeps me grounded and driven every day.

I find joy in life's simple pleasures - listening to a favourite song, taking a peaceful walk in the park surrounded by nature, enjoying a delicious treat or unwinding with a nice movie or book.

Making time for yourself is hard but essential. Even 5 quiet minutes to pause, disconnect and breathe can help refresh your mind. A short walk, a warm cup of tea a power nap or sharing a quick laugh or a moment of connection with a friend or colleague also helps. My faith in higher power gives me a sense of relief that not everything is mine to control and that there is a greater force at work guiding the bigger picture.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that there are many things that keep people going and sometimes we don't even realise it till we lose it...like the pay check for instance :) and the lack of good jobs out there. The what if's are always going to be there and whether we sink or sail I'm here today and i choose to be happy. On a lighter note, for me personally seeing my kids happy at the end of a long day keeps me going because they don't care how my day was and they shouldn't have to care. At times, spending quiet time in devotions has really built me up as a person and healed me in more ways than one. For fun, watching a really nice K Drama makes me so happy (I'm quite hooked)..and other times, a nice cup of tea and mindless laughter with friends is really what the soul needs.

# data[].attributes.body
When I am home, I work in a space upstairs, I am convinced my dog (Becky, a rescue from the local shelter) has a wristwatch, she knows when my work is done and I am coming down the stairs for the last time and now is the time she has been waiting for all day, time for a walk with her Dad!

The raw excitement and anticipation, the happy meltdown she performs when I reach for the dog leash, sends the cats scattering as we head for the front door. My wife and my daughter just shake their heads like we are both a little off our rockers.

If i took her for a walk 10 times a day, she would behave the same, her crazy, simple, uncontrollable joy makes me laugh every time and reminds me and rebalances me, some can live with the simplest of joys and need very little.

We have a small yard and when I let her off the lead in the nearby vineyard, she takes off like a rocket, living her best life. It only lasts 30 minutes but both of us feel depressed if circumstances intervene and prevent the walk, it has become our thing, our time to decompress and enjoy the outdoors, the freedom even if just for a moment.

# data[].attributes.body
What truly keeps me going each day is my rescued cat — a beautiful, grown-up female I found in August 2024, clinging to life as a tiny, fragile kitten. She was weak and struggling, and I wasn’t sure she’d make it. But with care, patience, and love, she pulled through — and watching her transformation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Now, she’s full of energy, endlessly playful, and radiates unconditional love. No matter how tiring the day has been, I know she’ll be there, eagerly waiting at the door when I return. Her joyful pounces, soft purrs, and mischievous antics melt away every bit of stress.

She reminds me daily of resilience, of how life can turn around with just a little love and care. Seeing her grow into a healthy, happy companion has been more than a milestone — it’s a constant source of joy and purpose.

She doesn’t just brighten my home — she brings light to my life. Payel Das Gupta, Senior Manager, English and School Education - India

# data[].attributes.body
“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” HG Wells, the UK writer, once said. Indeed, research shows that physical activity can boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing risk of stress. In the UK I like to swim in wild spaces like lakes and the sea. I like the freedom of riding a bike, and the wind in my hair when I run or walk in city parks, green spaces, or up and down hills and mountains. There's a very friendly group of runners that meet in Colombo on Sunday and Wednesday mornings, and Thursday evenings, at Independence square. Everyone is welcome, and all paces are catered for.

# data[].attributes.body
A fact that keeps me going even when I really (REALLY) don't want to... :)

# data[].attributes.body
I have forced myself to make time for yoga again. This form of flow or movement yoga is particularly challenging, but also really meditative. Having started it again around 3 months ago, I've really noticed the difference in my stress levels and my sleep!

# data[].attributes.body
I prioritise my well-being by doing intense cycling every other day, which keeps me physically energised and mentally refreshed. I'm also a trained Mental Health First Aider, and supporting my colleagues' emotional well-being gives me a strong sense of purpose and positivity—it’s something that energises me just as much as exercise.

# data[].attributes.body
These are the 3 things I'm trying at the moment: 1. Lifting weights and eating more protein!

2. Improving my French and

3. daily journalling (see link for a persuasive argument for journalling to improve well-being). I've kept a diary since I was a child but in the last two years, the habit stopped almost completely.

Studies show repeatedly that this (rather mundane) habit can have a significant impact on your mental health and well-being so I'm committing to answering 3 questions every day: 1. What's my priority today? 2. What am I grateful for and 3. What quality do I want to show the world today? It's an interesting exercise, and it takes a lot of discipline to pick up a pen first thing in the morning, rather than my phone!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Improving Your Daily Habits / Feel Better, Live More Podcast

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover strategies to improve daily habits for a healthier, more balanced life.

# data[].attributes.body
Walking 2–3 days a week helps me stay positive and keeps me going. Also spending time in the garden helps me recharge and re-energise. There’s something calming about being surrounded by green. Fresh air, a bit of movement, and watching plants grow remind me to slow down and breathe.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Anamika - my beautiful South Delhi babe 

# data[].attributes.headline
Writing, prayer, and fifty-three furry lifelines.

# data[].attributes.subject
Writing, prayer, and fifty-three furry lifelines.

# data[].attributes.body
I write. Mostly for myself but sometimes, I share my work too. Last year, for my father’s 80th birthday, I wrote a book about him. Adventures of Appa is a celebration of his life and the adventures that shaped him. It’s now out in the world, and that still gives me a high. I write short stories for the SHE network, a beautiful collective that publishes a book on women's issues annually. Since 2021, I’ve had the joy of contributing stories that centre around women’s voices, struggles, and strength.

Everyday grounding comes through prayer and meditation, quiet rituals that bring calm, clarity, and a sense of being held.

And then, there are my dogs — all 53 of them. They live on the streets of Kolkata, and I do what I can to care for them. They are chaos, love, and lifeblood. They remind me daily that purpose doesn’t always come wrapped in accolades — sometimes, it just shows up with a wagging tail. Vaccines, first aid, sterilisation - these are commonly used words in our house with the entire family chipping in to help. These are the things that keep me going. The small, steady joys. The quiet acts of love.

# data[].attributes.body
A classroom full of curiosity, fun and laughter, the wag of a tail (or rather two tails) when I get home from work, a purr at my feet (three sets of purring in this case !), and the misty Hill Country of Sri Lanka, always breathtakingly beautiful, calling my name (Haputale, of course!) .

# data[].attributes.body
My heart was aching to live a slow life - to read a book. In the process of becoming an adult, I realised that everyday comes with a plan, something impromptu also comes up. To keep myself going, I decided to take a step back, grab the books that had been relaxing on my book shelves since long. I read them. I did not make any plan. I recharged myself.

Jaya Budhiraja, British Council Delhi

# data[].attributes.body
To clear my head, I swim. To fill it with something other than British Council, I read. Recently I've been reading Lucius Seneca. His words are almost 2,000 years old but still relevant and wise. Here are a few of his more succinct thoughts:

We suffer more in imagination than in reality.

All cruelty springs from weakness

Only time heals what reason cannot (possibly his most famous saying though often not completed)

And my personal favorite is,

As long as you live, keep learning how to live

# data[].attributes.body
The prompt says "write something beautiful" and I frankly don't have anything beautiful to say. God know how most of us infact all of us have been going on through all that has happened in last five years! surviving a pandemic, economic crisis, wars (yes wars!) I just want to say all of YOU my fellow British Council-ers keep ME going! the fact that we are continuing to run business win business achieve milestones work together laugh and enjoy together cry together worry together help each other and support eachother - you don't get that everywhere so easily! you all are special and the reason that keeps me going forward everyday! 🫡

# data[].attributes.body
Sometimes I feel like an ancient soul trapped in this contemporary body. I go to the wild and breath the purest air, drink from the stream, smell the caves and live another day.

# data[].attributes.body
I love meeting people and getting to know them. It doesn't matter if it is on a serious conference, a plane ride or in my neighbourhood park. I genuinely enjoy human interactions and get energized by people's positive energy. In this quest, I do sometimes meet energy drainers as well, and when I do, I try to make them think positively. I often fail at this, but very few times I succeed. Those successes really make my day. I want the optimism to dominate my disposition and prevent the cynicism from taking over as I get old.