Author: akashah

213. The Art of Conversation

The art of conversation thrives on the luxury of time, allowing insights and revelations to gracefully unfold. It’s about moving beyond surface-level exchanges, or mere cocktail talk, and embracing deeper connections that reveal who someone truly is and what lights them up. Not every exchange leads to lifelong friendship, and that’s okay. The goal is […]

212. Patience

Patience has never come naturally to me, but life has taught me its necessity through unexpected events, like heartbreak and loss. Often feeling like a stranger to myself, I’ve realized that slowing down and embracing patience allows me to find gratitude in simple pleasures, like a cool breeze or ice cream, leading to a sense […]

211. Doing the Dishes

Did you know you can transform mundane daily tasks into meditative and contemplative acts. It’s true. There is even therapeutic value in things like hand-washing dishes and the meticulous process of selecting an outfit. There is satisfaction in clean linens. It’s simply a matter of being present in these routines, and from that awareness comes […]

210. Loving Oneself

I am on a personal journey toward self-love and authenticity. There are both challenges and rewards for choosing to love oneself. Personally, I can recall many of my attempts to fit in and discover who I truly am, from childhood through adulthood, and it is through kindness, simplicity, and embracing my true self that I’ve […]

207. Being Genuine

My life has been a journey of self-discovery and this week I am contemplating what is means to listen to your genuine voice within. I’ve had many experiences in my life, from focusing on financial stability to moving to California, living abroad, and finally discovering my calling as a writer. Through all the challenges and […]

206. Appreciation

What is the difference between having things and simply appreciating them—and how has that distinction shaped the way we see the world? Inspired by a quote from Albert Hubbard and memories of flipping through Town & Country magazines with my mother, I take a sentimental and humorous journey through antique stores, high-end jewelry I’ll never own, and […]

205. Still and Stupid

In this episode of Now That You Ask, I reflect on a curious bit of wisdom a friend once shared: “To get clear, you need to get as still and stupid as a stone.” At first, I bristled—me, stupid? But the more I sat with it, the more I realized how hard it actually is to be still, […]

204. Getting Drunk

Sometimes the feeling of immense joy and gratitude can be a little like getting drunk. From serendipitous events to the heartwarming experience of attending a dear friend’s granddaughter’s wedding, recognizing and appreciating the beauty and kindness around us is not only important but intoxicating. Embracing gratitude and humor can also transform our perspective and enhance […]