Juste un peu plus - Just a little more! (Part-1)

Imagine a sumptuous banana split! The pastry chef unravels his culinary masterpiece before you, when he exclaims, "One moment please" and runs into his kitchen.

Rushing back, he ensures that the luscious glaze red cherry is placed at the right angle, while the secret signature chocolate sauce (that he had forgotten) is now drizzled over that.

Elegantly, with a flourish, he places his delightful scrumptious desert before you.

The "little more" that the chef had added to your desert would have made that short wait worthwhile right?

In the course of our life, we sometimes come across some special people who always manage to put that "special touch" to any situation they are a part of. They add a little more than what may be expected. This beautiful concept of , "Juste un peu plus" (in French) or "just a little more", symbolize what we are capable of, in heights of altruism or nobility.

What does little extra mean to you? Going the extra mile for yourself or others or both?

One of the ways, we can do a little more is by changing our thought process from "enough" to one that is "generous".

When my kind and simple friend, Regi, started his company, he was literally penniless. Rich with knowledge and ready to work, he had little money to call his own. 

That's when a principal from a client company, based in a neighboring country decided to visit him. 

Unfortunately for that gentleman, his baggage had got lost while travelling. Without his luggage and in an unfamiliar country , the poor man was deeply upset. Luckily, Regi, not only took the gentleman shopping but quietly ensured his wardrobe was replenished.

Considering Regi's financial situation, the visitor would definitely not have expected the generosity he received from him.

Regi chose to help, keeping in mind that we need to help out in the best way we can, in any situation.

His decision had stemmed from pure altruism and empathy.

Personalizing our actions and words help us make happier days for others.

My friend, Rinku has always a way doing things with her inimitable charm and attention. During a recent movie trip, with her, I noticed how she had pointedly walked up to a member of the cleaning staff, thanked her and and gave a small monetary token of appreciation.

Many, may thank people warmly but not many may think of rewarding them for a job well done.

Affectionate and conscientious, Rinku had brightened up the day of one pleasantly surprised member of the mall's cleaning staff that day.

Those who practice a "little more" often are quick to apologize.

Last year, for my birthday, my friend Leena had for a change forgotten my birthday.

Despite my reassurance, she profusely apologized and quietly concluded our call.

That day in the afternoon, I received a gift, chocolates, flowers and balloons too with an apology card from her. She had already apologized to me with such sincerity that her loving gifts with the beautiful card truly overwhelmed me. If this isn't an example of a "little more", what is?

The power of Motivation and Self Motivation in Life is held in high esteem by the folks who believe in doing "a little more".

Each one of us are motivated by a goal that could be different from the other. During the recent Short & Sweet Poetry festival, I had the opportunity to meet the talented and charismatic festival director, Dhruti Shah. A passionate theatre artiste, Dhruti's personal ideology regarding freedom of expression is inspiring, to say the least. Her decisive attitude towards the concept of competition amidst creative pursuits is a stark reflection of her philosophy towards life, profession and humanity.

The Self-Motivated believe in doing a "little more" with their life

Self-Motivated folks share a life long passion for learning and improving, With their humility about matters they are ignorant about and their desire to learn, they are also strong believers in overcoming challenges that life throws at them.

When my friend Arwa got married, she had just completed her 10th grade. A highly self motivated learner, she patiently taught herself about the world and life. So much so, that years later, with little assistance, she went on to build her dream home in India. Her beautiful home brought her recognition as an house construction expert and interior designer.

Are we guilty of occasionally allowing complacency to seep into our psyche and drug our ability to do "a little more"?

After all, its not just about stepping out of our comfort zone. It involves leading a life by daring to be the best we can be.