THE COCOON INITIATIVE
  • About
  • Application Process
  • Contact
  • Sabbatical Experiences
  • FAQ
Picture

Beyond Service: Lessons from My Six-Month Sabbatical

9/15/2025

80 Comments

 
Picture
By Pradeep Singh Pundhir, Founder, SPECTRA (Sabbatical Dates: 1st June 2024 - 30th November 2024)

On 1st June 2024, I stepped into something I had never allowed myself in 25 years of social work—a pause. It was the beginning of a six-month sabbatical, gifted to me by The Cocoon Initiative. Just a few days later, on my birthday, I realized this was not just time off, but life itself handing me a precious gift: rest, self-reflection, and a new beginning.

For decades, my days were filled with work in villages—ensuring children went to school, empowering women through self-help groups, supporting farmers, and fighting for health and social justice. It was fulfilling, but also consuming. Somewhere along the way, I had forgotten to give myself even a single day.

When Vishal Talreja gently asked me, “Pradeep ji, have you ever thought of taking time for yourself?”—I was shaken. I had to admit, the thought had never even crossed my mind.

That conversation planted the seed for this sabbatical. It was not easy to let go. On the first day, handing over responsibilities to my colleagues, I felt restless. Questions swirled: “Will everything go smoothly without me?” But soon, I reminded myself—rest is not indulgence, it is the need of the soul.

Travel, Books, and Roots
I set out on journeys across Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Each place offered lessons: the desert forts of Jaisalmer whispered of resilience, the valleys of Himachal sang of peace, and the ghats of Varanasi revealed the mysteries of life and death.

“When we pause, life begins to whisper its soft voices to us.”

Books became another anchor.
Ikigai helped me rediscover my purpose—seeing change in the lives of the marginalized is my deepest joy. Good Vibes, Good Life reminded me that self-love fuels service. Hindi classics like Godan and Poos ki Raat brought me closer to rural realities, while Sahir and Ghalib’s poetry reminded me of the power of words.

Equally meaningful was time with my village and family. I worked in the fields, repaired my ancestral home, met old friends, and spent precious moments with my grandparents. These experiences reminded me that true wealth lies in soil, relationships, and shared memories.

Before and After
Before my sabbatical, life revolved only around work—targets, deadlines, responsibilities. Family and self-reflection were distant. Afterward, I emerged with new clarity:
  • Serving society is noble, but pausing for oneself is equally necessary.
  • Balance is not a luxury, it is life’s foundation.
  • Giving time to family, roots, and self renews the energy to serve others better.

As I return to my work, I do so with fresh vision and compassion. The pause has not distanced me from service; it has deepened it.

Why Sabbaticals Matter
If you have been running endlessly—whether in social work, corporate life, or any field—I invite you to ask yourself: When was the last time you gave time to your own soul?

A sabbatical is not a withdrawal, but an investment. It is an opportunity to return with greater strength, deeper vision, and renewed balance.

Looking back, I feel this sabbatical was the greatest gift of my life. For 25 years, my work connected me to society. These six months connected me to myself.

And now, I carry forward both—with gratitude, peace, and new energy.

“Once you learn to live for yourself, living for others becomes easier.”
​

80 Comments
GIRRAK PRASAD MEENA
9/16/2025 12:31:56 am

It is very inspiring story; you gave time to yourself in this hectic life. This is very important to motivate yourself again, so that you can again work well for rural women and community.

Best wishes Sir !

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir link
9/16/2025 11:09:14 pm

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and encouraging words. It truly means a lot. Taking some time to reflect and recharge has indeed helped me regain energy and clarity, so that I can continue working with dedication for rural women and the community.

Your support and blessings are always a great source of motivation.

Reply
Dharmendra Kumar DAS
9/16/2025 01:04:18 am

"Your journey is truly inspiring. In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves just running without pausing to reflect. So far, I have only managed short get-togethers with close friends, but never a long journey. I usually nurture my passion for reading—authors like Premchand, Dharamveer Bharti, Osho, and currently Ikigai. After reading about your experience, I also feel motivated to plan a long journey for self-evaluation and inner growth."

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir link
9/16/2025 11:19:23 pm

Dear Dharmendra Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your reflections. It is wonderful to know that my journey could inspire you in some way. I completely agree with you—life often becomes a continuous race, and taking time for self-reflection and inner growth is very important.

Your passion for reading is truly admirable, and the authors you mentioned are themselves a source of deep wisdom and perspective. I am sure that when you plan your long journey, it will be a meaningful and transformative experience.

Wishing you the very best on your own path of reflection and growth.

Reply
Rohit pratap singh
9/16/2025 05:18:42 am

This is a very good story because we will learn a lot from it and our understanding will also develop properly. This is a commendable effort on your part.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir link
9/16/2025 11:39:21 pm

Dear Rohit Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words. I truly appreciate your encouragement. It feels good to know that the story could offer some learnings and reflections. Your support means a lot and motivates me to continue such efforts.

Reply
Bhawana Rana
9/16/2025 05:19:37 am

Sir, your journey is a powerful reminder that taking time to pause and reflect is essential.
Your insights on balance and self-care are truly inspiring.
They serve as a guiding light for us all to reconnect with ourselves.
I’m deeply grateful for the wisdom you share through your leadership.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/16/2025 11:40:14 pm

Dear Bhawana Ji,

Thank you sincerely for your generous and thoughtful words. I am humbled to know that my journey and reflections resonate with you. Taking time for balance and self-care has been deeply enriching for me, and I truly believe it helps us serve others better.

Your kind appreciation means a lot and inspires me to continue walking this path with greater commitment.

Reply
Ravi Maman Chand
9/16/2025 05:23:38 am

सर, आपकी यात्रा बेहद प्रेरणादायक है ।
यह दिखाती है कि ठहराव केवल विश्राम नहीं, बल्कि आत्मा और सेवा दोनों को गहराई से जोड़ने का माध्यम है।

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/16/2025 11:41:26 pm

प्रिय रवि जी,

आपके प्रेरणादायक और सारगर्भित शब्दों के लिए हृदय से धन्यवाद। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा—ठहराव केवल विश्राम नहीं, बल्कि आत्मा को गहराई से जोड़ने और सेवा को नई ऊर्जा देने का माध्यम है। आपके शब्द मुझे और अधिक समर्पण के साथ आगे बढ़ने की शक्ति देते हैं।

Reply
Himmat Singh
9/16/2025 05:32:21 am

सर, आपकी यात्रा बेहद प्रेरणा दायक है ।
यह दिखाती है कि ठहराव केवल विश्राम नहीं, बल्कि आत्मा और सेवा दोनों को गहराई से जोड़ने का माध्यम है। परिश्रम करने वालों को फल जरुर मिलता है

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/16/2025 11:42:14 pm

प्रिय हिममत जी,

आपके स्नेहिल और प्रेरणादायक शब्दों के लिए बहुत-बहुत धन्यवाद। आपने सही कहा कि ठहराव आत्मा और सेवा दोनों को नई ऊर्जा देता है, और परिश्रम का फल अवश्य मिलता है। आपके शुभाशिर्वाद और समर्थन से ही आगे बढ़ने की प्रेरणा मिलती है।

Reply
Kavita link
9/17/2025 01:22:16 am

Thanks you sir ji

Dileep Rajpoot
9/16/2025 05:36:34 am

Dear sir Lessons from you're Six-Month Sabbatical is not just a title, but a reflection of your inspiring journey, Sir. Your time away has been one of reflection, renewal, and rediscovery — showing us that true leadership goes beyond service, into balance, wisdom, and purpose. The lessons you bring back are not only your own but guiding lights for all of us who walk alongside you. , I also feel motivated to plan a long journey for self-evaluation and inner growth."

Reply

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/16/2025 11:59:25 pm

Dear Dileep Ji,

Thank you so much for your generous and heartfelt words. I am deeply touched by the way you have reflected on my sabbatical journey. You are absolutely right—leadership is not only about service, but also about maintaining balance, seeking wisdom, and finding renewed purpose.

It makes me very happy to know that my experiences could inspire you to think about your own journey of self-evaluation and inner growth. I am sure that whenever you take that step, it will be a meaningful and transformative experience for you.

Your kind encouragement motivates me to continue with greater commitment.

Reply
Ravindra kumar Ravindra Kumar
9/16/2025 05:40:37 am

Sir your journey is really inspiring. After reading your experience, I also feel inspired by your thoughts to plan a long journey for self-evaluation and inner growth.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:00:09 am

Dear Ravindra Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words. I feel humbled that my journey could inspire you in some way. Taking time for self-evaluation and inner growth is truly valuable, and I am sure that whenever you plan your own journey, it will be deeply meaningful and rewarding.

Reply
Mohd Yunus
9/16/2025 05:40:57 am

"Sir, your experience is very inspiring. You showed that along with service, it is equally important to give time to yourself. Your experience also inspired me to create a balance in life.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:00:46 am

Dear Yunus Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. I truly believe that just as service is important, giving time to ourselves is equally necessary to maintain balance and energy. I am glad to know that my experience could inspire you in this way.

Reply
Ashik Khan
9/16/2025 05:44:47 am

This is a very good story because we will learn a lot from it and our understanding will also develop properly. This is a commendable effort on your part.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:01:46 am

Dear Ashik Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. I am glad to know that the story could offer some learnings and reflections. Your appreciation truly motivates me to keep moving forward with sincerity.

Reply
Anita devi
9/16/2025 06:13:46 am

आपके अनुभव से सर हमें सीख मिली कि सेवा के साथ-साथ आत्म-देखभाल भी उतनी ही ज़रूरी है।हम भी अपने जीवन में ऐसा ठहराव लेना चाहेंगे।आपकी बातों से लगा कि सच्चा संतुलन परिवार, समाज और स्वयं—तीनों को समय देने में है।

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:02:36 am

प्रिय अनीता जी,

आपके प्रेरणादायक और गहन शब्दों के लिए बहुत-बहुत धन्यवाद। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा—सेवा के साथ-साथ आत्म-देखभाल और परिवार, समाज व स्वयं तीनों को संतुलित समय देना ही सच्चा जीवन है। मुझे खुशी है कि मेरे अनुभवों से आपको भी यह प्रेरणा मिली।

Reply
Ramswaroop
9/16/2025 06:25:18 am

Good story sir, Taking time to pause and reconnect with yourself and your roots is the key to true energy and better service.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:03:21 am

Dear Ramswaroop Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words. You are absolutely right—pausing and reconnecting with ourselves and our roots truly brings renewed energy and strength for better service. I deeply value your encouragement.

Reply
Sanjay Kumar
9/16/2025 06:27:40 am

Sir, your story learning for other, how they doing extra work with our current work. Your learning,,experience and doing exceptional after adjusting life balance. This is great Sir.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:04:05 am

Dear Sanjay Ji,

Thank you so much for your generous words. I am glad to know that my experiences could offer some learnings. Finding balance in life is not always easy, but it gives us the strength to do better in our work and service. Your encouragement truly means a lot.

Reply
Anand Kumar jogi
9/16/2025 06:47:13 am

This step of self-introspection after 25 years of continuous service is not only commendable but also provides a new direction to the society.
This journey of your six months proves that pause is the source of new energy and deep vision. Many congratulations to you on this wonderful initiative

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:05:05 am

Dear Anand Ji,

Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful words. I truly appreciate your encouragement. You are right—after years of continuous service, a pause can indeed become a source of renewed energy and deeper vision. I feel humbled that my journey could reflect this and offer a sense of direction.

Your congratulations and good wishes mean a lot to me and inspire me to continue with greater dedication.

Reply
Sanjay Kumar
9/16/2025 07:10:57 am

Sir, your story is very exceptional. Your story told to other how the maximum use of time and think beyond. Great Sir.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:07:25 am

Dear Sanjay Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I am glad that my journey could convey the importance of making the best use of time and thinking beyond our limits. Your appreciation truly motivates me to keep moving forward with sincerity and purpose.

Reply
Anju kumari
9/16/2025 07:16:20 am

बहुत अच्छा है सर जी यह जरूरी है क्योंकि समाज की सेवा करते हुए अपने परिवार, शरीर और मन का ध्यान रखना भी ज़रूरी है, क्योंकि ये तीनों एक-दूसरे से जुड़े हुए हैं और यह स्वस्थ व संतुलित जीवन के लिए आवश्यक हैं। उदाहरण के लिए है कि एक धर्म के लिए दूसरे को नज़रअंदाज़ करना सही नहीं है, इसलिए परिवार का पालन-पोषण और समाज सेवा, दोनों ही धर्म हैं। काम के साथ साथ यात्रा करना नई चीजें सीखना नई जगहों और अनुभवों से व्यक्ति की सोचने की क्षमता बढ़ती है और वह नई बातें सोच पता है

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:08:21 am

प्रिय अंजू जी,

आपके इतने गहन और प्रेरणादायक विचारों के लिए हृदय से धन्यवाद। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा कि समाज सेवा के साथ-साथ परिवार, शरीर और मन की देखभाल भी उतनी ही आवश्यक है—ये तीनों ही एक स्वस्थ और संतुलित जीवन का आधार हैं। आपकी यह बात कि परिवार का पालन-पोषण और समाज सेवा दोनों ही धर्म हैं, वास्तव में बहुत सुंदर और सार्थक है।

यात्रा से मिलने वाले नए अनुभव और सीख हमें सोचने की क्षमता को और व्यापक बनाते हैं, और मैं पूरी तरह सहमत हूँ कि यही हमें नई ऊर्जा और दृष्टि प्रदान करते हैं।

Reply
Manju Kanwar
9/16/2025 07:21:09 am

This is a very inspiring thing; everyone should take out such time in their life so that every human being remains connected to his society, earth and his family.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:09:07 am

Dear Manju Ji,

Thank you very much for your thoughtful words. You are absolutely right—taking time for ourselves helps us stay connected with our society, our earth, and our family. Such balance is truly essential for meaningful living and service.

Reply
Kavita choudhary
9/16/2025 08:04:22 am


"A truly inspiring article! It beautifully conveys that pausing is not stepping away from service, but a way to return with renewed energy, balance, and clarity. A valuable lesson for all."

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:09:47 am

Dear Kavita Ji,

Thank you so much for your generous and thoughtful words. You have beautifully captured the essence—that pausing is not moving away from service, but a way to return with renewed energy, balance, and clarity. I am humbled that my journey could convey this message.

Reply
Nitinder
9/16/2025 09:29:35 am

Sir, your story is very practical and inspiring for us, for life and for those who take inspiration from you. Your learning, experience and life balance serve as an inspiration. This is a very good thing Sir.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 12:10:42 am

Dear Nitinder Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I feel humbled that my journey, learnings, and efforts toward balance could inspire you. Your appreciation truly motivates me to keep moving forward with sincerity and purpose.

Reply
shital verma
9/17/2025 12:00:35 am

Sir, Your story is really inspiring for all. As per current circumstances, everyone have need to focus on their own self. during these haphazard lifestyle most of the people forgot to spend time with themselves and the results is they suffer from anxiety, depression, fall down in their creativity. so it's really need to everyone have to balance their work & personal life. this is really very good thing that you started to focus on yourself also. It's so inspiring for all.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:44:34 am

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and encouraging words. You are absolutely right—in today’s fast and haphazard lifestyle, many people forget to give time to themselves, which leads to stress and loss of creativity. Balancing personal life and work is indeed essential for good health, clarity, and meaningful service.

I am humbled that my journey could highlight this need and inspire others as well. Your kind words motivate me to continue on this path with sincerity.

Reply
Raunak singh parihar
9/17/2025 12:06:51 am

"Such an inspiring journey, Sir! Your reflection on the need to pause and reconnect with oneself is a powerful reminder for all of us. Thank you for sharing this valuable lesson!" Sir🙏

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:59:12 am

Dear Raunak Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. I am glad that my reflections on pausing and reconnecting with oneself resonated with you. Your encouragement truly motivates me to keep sharing and learning together.

Reply
Pappu Lal Bairwa
9/17/2025 12:13:55 am


सर, आपकी यात्रा बेहद प्रेरणादायक है ।
यह दिखाती है कि ठहराव केवल विश्राम नहीं, बल्कि आत्मा और सेवा दोनों को गहराई से जोड़ने का माध्यम है।

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 05:01:02 am

प्रिय पप्पू लाल जी,

आपके प्रेरणादायक और स्नेहिल शब्दों के लिए हृदय से धन्यवाद। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा—ठहराव केवल विश्राम नहीं है, बल्कि आत्मा को गहराई से जोड़ने और सेवा को नई ऊर्जा देने का माध्यम है। आपके शुभ शब्द मुझे और अधिक समर्पण के साथ आगे बढ़ने की प्रेरणा देते हैं।

Reply
UNNUS DEEN
9/17/2025 12:46:14 am

This step of self-introspection after 25 years of continuous service is not only commendable but also provides a new direction to the society.
This journey of your six months proves that pause is the source of new energy and deep vision. Many congratulations to you on this wonderful initiative

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 05:02:41 am

Dear Unnus Ji,

Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful words. You are absolutely right—after many years of continuous service, taking time for self-introspection becomes a source of renewed energy and deeper vision. I feel humbled that my journey could reflect this and offer a sense of direction.

Your congratulations and encouragement truly inspire me to continue this path with greater dedication.

Reply
Yusuf Khan
9/17/2025 12:50:57 am

Sir, your journey is a powerful reminder that it's important to pause and reflect.
Your insights on balance and self-care are truly inspiring.
I am so grateful for the wisdom you share through your leadership.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 05:03:38 am

Dear Yusuf Ji,

Thank you so much for your generous and encouraging words. I am glad that my journey could serve as a reminder of the importance of pausing and reflecting. Your appreciation of balance and self-care means a lot, and I am humbled that my experiences could offer some wisdom through leadership.

Reply
Geeta saini
9/17/2025 01:03:25 am

आपकी यात्रा प्रेरणादायक है जो हमें सिखाती है कि जीवन में आगे बढने के लिए असफलता से ही सफलता मिलती है जीवन में ठहराव जरूरी है क्योंकि ठहराव से ही नई ऊर्जा और कार्य करने की शक्ति प्राप्त होती है

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 05:04:28 am

प्रिय गीता जी,

आपके प्रेरणादायक और सारगर्भित शब्दों के लिए हृदय से धन्यवाद। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा कि असफलताओं से ही हमें सफलता की राह मिलती है और जीवन में ठहराव नई ऊर्जा और कार्य करने की शक्ति प्रदान करता है। यह जानकर खुशी हुई कि मेरी यात्रा ने आपको यह अनुभव कराया।

Reply
Mukesh Kumar banjara
9/17/2025 01:16:57 am

"Such an inspiring journey, Sir! Your reflection on the need to pause and reconnect with oneself is a powerful reminder for all of us. Thank you for sharing this valuable lesson!" Sir🙏

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 05:07:30 am

Dear Mukesh Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I am glad that my reflections on pausing and reconnecting with oneself resonated with you. Your appreciation truly motivates me to continue sharing and learning together.

Reply
नेहा वाधवा
9/17/2025 01:21:34 am

आपकी कहानी को कहानी न कहकर एक जीवनी भी कहा जा सकता है। जीवन के उतार–चढ़ाव, व्यक्तिगत समस्याएं और अपने कार्यस्थल में बखूबी तरीके सामंजस्य बना पाना किसी चुनौती से काम नहीं है। बहुत ही प्रेरणादायक जीवन है जो सामाजिक रूप से किसी उदाहरण से कम नहीं है।

Reply
Aditya Anand
9/17/2025 01:26:23 am

This is such a powerful reflection, Pradeep sir. Your words beautifully capture what many of us forget—that rest is not stepping away from purpose, but deepening it. The way you wove together travel, books, family, and roots into your sabbatical journey shows how true balance can transform service. Thank you for reminding us that taking time for ourselves is not selfish, but essential to sustain the work we do for others. Truly inspiring 🙏✨

Reply
Kavita link
9/17/2025 01:27:37 am

Aapki kahani Ko kahani Ne kah kar ek jivani bhi kaha ja sakta hai jivan ke उतार-चढ़ाव vyaktigat samasyaen aur apne karya Sthal mein bekhudi tarike Sham 10 se banaa Pana Kisi chunauti Se Kam nahin Hai bahut hi prernadayak jivan hai jo samajik Roop Se Kisi udaharan Se Kam nahin Hai

Reply
Pooja Dureja
9/17/2025 01:38:16 am

आपने सही कहा कि ठहराव आत्मा और सेवा दोनों को नई ऊर्जा देता है, और परिश्रम का फल अवश्य मिलता है। कुछ नया करने से ही आगे बढ़ने की प्रेरणा मिलती है।
आशा है आप ऐसा की कुछ नया शेयर करते रहे जिस से हमे भी आगे बढ़ने के नए रास्ते मिलते रहे।

Reply
Mausam Deen
9/17/2025 01:57:47 am

The way you handled these difficult projects is truly commendable. Your calm and positive attitude inspired everyone.
It's always fun working with you because you always bring new ideas and keep the team motivated.
Your guidance has helped me immensely in my career. You're not just a colleague, but a true mentor.
Your kindness and helpful nature always inspire me. The contributions you've made to society are commendable."
I'm always amazed by your hard work and dedication. You never give up, and that's what makes you special.
Your smile and positivity brighten everyone's day. Your presence alone is enough.
I'm sure you'll continue to achieve new heights of success. I wish you all the best.
Your work is truly amazing,What you've done is remarkable,Your hard work has paid off.
You're so inspiring, You're a true friend/guide, I appreciate your kindness and will continue to do so

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:45:35 am

Dear Mausam Ji,

I am truly touched by your generous and heartfelt words. Thank you for seeing value in my work and for considering me not just a colleague but also a friend and mentor. Your appreciation means a lot to me.

Whatever I have been able to do has always been possible because of the support, trust, and teamwork of people like you. Your encouragement and positivity inspire me as well, and I am grateful for the bond we share.

With blessings and best wishes for your continued growth and success,

Reply
Dhammadip Gajbhiye
9/17/2025 02:08:50 am

Congratulations, Pradeep Sir, your sabbatical journey is truly inspiring. After dedicating 25 years to serving others, you showed incredible wisdom by finally serving yourself. Your honest sharing about learning to pause, rest, and reconnect will help so many others in our field who struggle with the same challenges. Thank you for reminding us that taking care of ourselves isn't selfish—it's essential. Your travels across India and the insights you gained will undoubtedly make you an even more compassionate and effective leader. We're grateful for your example and excited for what lies ahead.

Reply
Bharat
9/17/2025 02:09:52 am

सर आपकी लेखनी दिल को छू गयी । इसमें अनुभव की गहराई, आत्मा की सच्चाई और जीवन की सरलता एक साथ झलकती है। यह सिर्फ़ पढ़ने की चीज़ नहीं, बल्कि महसूस करने की यात्रा है। मैं प्रयास करुगा इस सार को अपने दैनिक जीवन में ढाल पाऊं.....🙏

Reply
Sanjeev Kumar
9/17/2025 02:23:31 am

Your story is truly inspiring, Sir. We juniors have much to learn from your reflections and experiences, which will guide us in our own journeys.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:57:41 am

Dear Sanjeev Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind words. I feel humbled that my reflections and experiences could be of some guidance. It makes me very happy to know that the next generation finds value in these learnings. I wish you all the very best in your own journey ahead.

Reply
Harish Mani
9/17/2025 02:28:26 am

Very motivational thoughts, Sir. Your story serves as a reminder that taking a break is not a sign of weakness but rather of renewal, and that finding a balance between our work, family, and self enhances its significance. Thank you for sharing; it inspires us all to pay attention to our inner guidance.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:56:23 am

Dear Harish Ji,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful words. You have beautifully expressed the essence—that taking a break is not weakness but renewal, and balance among work, family, and self gives deeper meaning to life. I am glad that my journey could serve as a reminder of this truth.

Your encouragement truly inspires me to continue with greater sincerity.

Reply
Mandeep Kaur
9/17/2025 02:32:45 am

आपकी लेखनी दिल को छू गयी। इसमें अनुभव, आत्मा की सच्चाई और जीवन की सरलता एक साथ झलकती है। यह केवल पढ़ने की चीज़ नहीं, बल्कि महसूस करने, समझने और आत्मसात करने की एक अद्भुत यात्रा है। आपकी हर पंक्ति प्रेरणा देती है कि हम ठहरें, सोचें और अपने भीतर झांकें। मैं ईमानदारी से प्रयास करुंगी कि इस सार को अपने दैनिक जीवन और व्यवहार में ढालकर, इसे अपनी सोच और कर्म में उतार सकूं…

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:55:25 am

प्रिय मंदीप जी,

आपके इतने गहन और हृदयस्पर्शी शब्दों के लिए हृदय से आभार। यह जानकर बहुत खुशी हुई कि मेरी लेखनी ने आपको छुआ और प्रेरणा दी। आपने बिल्कुल सही कहा—यह यात्रा केवल पढ़ने की नहीं बल्कि महसूस करने और आत्मसात करने की है।

आपका यह संकल्प कि इसे अपने दैनिक जीवन और व्यवहार में ढालेंगी, वास्तव में सबसे सुंदर प्रतिक्रिया है। आपके शब्द मुझे भी और अधिक ईमानदारी और समर्पण के साथ आगे बढ़ने की प्रेरणा देते हैं।

Reply
Ankit Anand
9/17/2025 02:32:54 am

I appreciate you sharing this incredibly motivating journey, Sir. For all of us who frequently forget to take a break while helping others, your thoughts on relaxation, equilibrium, and re-establishing one's connection with oneself are potent reminders. Wishing you continued strength, clarity, and renewed energy as you carry this experience back into your work.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:54:03 am

Dear Ankit Ji,

Thank you so much for your generous and thoughtful words. I am glad that my reflections on relaxation, balance, and reconnecting with oneself could resonate with you. It is true that in helping others, we often forget to pause for ourselves—but these pauses are what renew our strength and clarity.

Your kind wishes mean a lot, and I carry them with gratitude as I move forward in my work with fresh energy.

Reply
Kapil Sharma
9/17/2025 02:41:06 am

Such a inspiring story, Sir. The way you’ve transformed struggles into strength is not only motivating but also a guiding light for many of us striving to make a difference.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:53:04 am

Dear Kapil Ji,

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. I feel humbled that my journey could resonate with you. Struggles do test us, but they also give us the strength to move ahead with greater purpose. Your appreciation inspires me to continue with sincerity and hope.

Reply
sachin kadam
9/17/2025 02:45:04 am

Thank you, Pradeep ji, for sharing such a heartfelt and inspiring journey. Your sabbatical beautifully reminds all of us in the development and social sector that sustainable service begins with caring for oneself. It is often easy to get lost in relentless work, forgetting that rest, reflection, and reconnecting with our roots are vital for renewed energy and deeper impact. Your insights about balance and self-love echo strongly as critical principles—not just for individuals but for strengthening entire communities we serve. Wishing you continued clarity, compassion, and strength as you carry this refreshed vision forward. Your experience is a powerful encouragement for everyone to embrace pauses as essential investments in both personal growth and social change.

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:46:52 am

Dear sachin
Dear [Name],

Thank you so much for your deeply thoughtful and encouraging words. I truly value the way you have captured the essence of my sabbatical. You are absolutely right—sustainable service can only flow when we first take care of ourselves. Reflection, rest, and reconnecting with our roots are not pauses in service, but in fact sources of renewed energy and greater impact.

Your kind wishes mean a lot to me, and I feel grateful to know that these learnings resonate with you. Together, if we all embrace balance and self-love, I believe our collective efforts in the development sector will become even stronger and more meaningful.

Reply
Hitesh Kumar
9/17/2025 03:27:04 am

Thank you for this thoughtful reflection on the power of intentional pauses in social work. At SPECTRA, we've seen how stepping back can recharge the collective energy that drives our mission—empowering rural communities, supporting women's self-help groups, and advocating for social justice. It's a timely reminder that balance strengthens our impact, and we're excited for the fresh momentum this brings to our shared work ahead!

Reply
Pradeep Singh Pundhir
9/17/2025 04:51:16 am

Dear Hitesh Ji,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful reflections. You’ve beautifully expressed how intentional pauses can recharge not just individuals but also the collective spirit that drives our work. I deeply value your perspective and completely agree—balance does not reduce impact, it multiplies it.

I am grateful to have colleagues like you walking this journey together, and I look forward to carrying this renewed energy into our shared mission at SPECTRA.

Reply
Hitesh Kumar
9/17/2025 03:29:57 am

Thank you for this thoughtful reflection on the power of intentional pauses in social work. At SPECTRA, we've seen how stepping back can recharge the collective energy that drives our mission—empowering rural communities, supporting women's self-help groups, and advocating for social justice. It's a timely reminder that balance strengthens our impact, and we're excited for the fresh momentum this brings to our shared work ahead!

Reply
ललिता
9/17/2025 05:53:49 am

सर,आपकी लेखनी वाकई प्रेरणादायक है कि रुकना और चिंतन करना बहुत ही महत्वपूर्ण है|
संतुलन और आत्म देखभाल पर आपकी अंतर्दृष्टि सचमुच प्रेरणादायक है|
आपके अनुभव पढ़ने के बाद मुझे भी आपके विचारों से प्रेरणा मिलती है|

Reply
Kajal
9/17/2025 10:42:06 pm

Congratulations to you for the hard work and struggle you've put into achieving the success you've achieved today. Your lifestyle is a great inspiration to the younger generation, and we consider ourselves to you for the hard work and struggle you've put into achieving the success you've achieved today. Your lifestyle is a great inspiration to the younger generation, and we consider ourselves fortunate to have had the opportunity to witness your struggles and work with you.
Thank you.

Reply
Rahul kumar
9/18/2025 12:10:22 am

Thank you for sharing this powerful story. It highlights something we often forget—that balance and self-care are the true foundations of long-term impact. This reflection makes a strong case for why sabbaticals matter in every field. Pausing to reconnect with oneself eventually multiplies the energy to serve others.

Reply
Asha Rani
9/23/2025 04:57:55 am

Sir thank you for sharing the Powerfull story. It tha highlights something we are often forget that the balance and the self Care . The true foundations of long time impact.this riflaction make a strong case for why sabbaticals matter in every field.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

Proudly powered by Weebly
  • About
  • Application Process
  • Contact
  • Sabbatical Experiences
  • FAQ