The Monkey Dilemma is a space intended to calm my monkey mind that is always jumping from one thought to another, one idea to the next. Those crazies need a home, and this is it. The blog serves as an online personal journal, a self-curated magazine, a romantic escape, and mostly an ode to life and its various complexities. I write about books, quotes, poems, products, introspections, nonsense, and more. Hope you enjoy reading the pieces as much as I loved writing them.
— Kalpana Iyer
Here are the latest posts to get you started:
Why Blaming Modi Won’t Make India a Better Place for Indian Muslims
It’s a trend seen worldwide – to blame the Indian Prime Minister and the country for its alleged mistreatment of Indian Muslims. I say “alleged” because certain journalists present the scenario as such – that all Muslims are being targeted and attacked. This is absurd for someone like me, who stays in the country. I…
An Ode to Nonviolent Communication
Happy to announce I am now 100% nonviolent after reading Nonviolent Communication (NVC) by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg. I am also 100% lying. Because, like all good things in life, NVC takes effort. And practice. Having just finished the book, I only have an idea of what to say but no practical experience. Conflict resolution is…
4 Tips for NRIs on How to Effectively Prepare for Paperwork in India and Avoid Multiple Trips
I have seen a lot of NRIs (non-resident Indians) struggling with paperwork once they land in India. They get frustrated and intimidated. It was during that point I realized I (an ex-NRI) have become accustomed to the system. Probably, because I now have a way to go about it. This page aims to provide…
An Ode to Taking Fewer Photos and Living in the Moment
I take a sip of refreshing chai and relish the warmth it brings. I visit a striking green paradise and breathe in the intoxicating air. I spend time laughing with my loved ones, engaging in deep conversations. Time stands still. I welcome the moment with a big smile, comfortable baggy clothes, and frizzy hair. All…
An Ode to The Street-Savvy Characters of The White Lotus (No Spoilers)
In The White Lotus S2, there are only two types of people – the ones who are street-smart and the ones who are not. The street-smart ones know how to get their way, even if it’s through unethical means like manipulation, lying, and deceit. “How do you sleep well at night knowing you did this?”…
An Ode to My Favorite Products of 2022
Since the year is almost over, I thought I would take a moment to list my favorite products of 2022. Purchases that have improved my life, delicacies I enjoyed, and things that exceeded my expectations. Most of these products are only available in India. Still, you might want to check out your local Amazon website…
An Ode to Dealing with Tough Managers
Recently, I posted being concerned about my performance appraisal this year as the previous ones did not go well. I have some news to share – I finally got good feedback! This is a reason to celebrate, as my head was clouded with self-doubt over the past year, and I questioned my work quality. “This…
I Created 3 Bank Accounts To Manage My Finances. Here’s How It Went.
I first read Monika Halan’s Let’s Talk Money a year back. In the book, she talked about the importance of having 3 bank accounts to manage finances. Monika Halan instructs you to transfer a part of your income every month, without fail, to your spend-it and expense accounts. This enables you to have a hands-free…
An Ode to Women Taking Financial Decisions
This is a topic close to my heart. As a single woman in her 30s, I often find myself having to deal with people second-guessing my financial decisions. I am always told to consult a man before taking things further. Don’t get me wrong. I am absolutely okay with consulting experts. The keyword being “experts.”…
An Ode to Ignoring Toxic People
We are often told that communication is key. People advocate the importance of openly sharing your feelings with your partners and friends, thoughts with colleagues, and so on. That’s absolutely true. You should. But what they don’t tell you is that sometimes, communication does absolutely nothing. You can talk all you want, but your effort…
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