Going abroad? Tap, pay, explore with cashless travel on your Android phone

Hi Guys, 

South Africans are ditching cash for digital wallets and the benefits of the move to digital are especially attractive when you’re travelling outside the republic. Your smartphone helps you to pay quickly and easily on the go, while giving you better visibility into costs and spending.

TCL offers some travel money tips for Android users:

Set up Google Pay before you leave

Google Pay is a handy digital wallet where you can store most South African debit and credit cards. Once you’ve put a card onto Google Pay, you can use it to make contactless payments in most countries where the digital wallet is accepted. You can tap and pay on transport systems like the locals. Always test your setup with a small local transaction before you depart to make sure it works. Also, keep your plastic card nearby in case you want to make a payment at a retailer or restaurant that can’t accept Google Pay.

Minimise transaction and conversion fees

When travelling, international fees can quickly add up. Some banks offer global accounts where you can save in foreign currencies and transact with a global card with lower transaction fees. If you don’t have a global account, be sure to select the option to pay or draw money in local currency rather than rand when at points of sale or ATMs overseas. This avoids bad exchange rates.

Get a global travel card

Many South African banks offer prepaid travel debit cards. You can load them up with multiple currencies before you start your journey. You can usually manage the cards and top them up with more money direct from your bank’s Android app. The best part? Not worrying that the rand will get weaker while you’re travelling. Plus, the fees at the point of sale or ATM will generally be a bit lower.

Stay secure

Digital payments are safer than carrying cash, but you still need to stay alert. Be sure that you have your phone locked with biometrics or a secure PIN, so that no one else can access to your digital wallet or digital banking apps. You should also enable Find My Device to track your phone if it is lost or stolen. Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking – use a VPN or stick to mobile data for sensitive transactions.

Don’t forget these useful apps

There are a lot of apps that can help you manage your money while you’re travelling. Xe shows live exchange rates so you can instantly see how much you’re really paying. It’s useful for checking the rand-to-euro/dollar/pound rate before accepting a rate at a foreign ATM or shop.

Shyft by Standard Bank offers a range of international management tools. You can order multi-currency Shyft Mastercard debit cards to use while travelling overseas and save up to on card fees. You can use your physical Shyft forex card to withdraw local currency from any Mastercard supported ATM in the country you’re visiting.

About TCL Mobile

TCL Mobile specialises in the research, development and manufacturing of smartphones, tablets and connected devices. On a mission to deliver 5G for all, TCL Mobile helps its customers ‘Inspire Greatness’ in their lives through industry leading technology and solutions.

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TCL Unveils Mini LED TVs With New HVA Panels And Halo Control Technology

Hi Guys, 

Global Olympic partner, and leading consumer electronics brand, TCL Electronics has unveiled its 2025 Mini LED TVs, incorporating HVA (High Vertical Alignment) panels and their own "All-domain Halo Control" technology to consumers in South Africa.

Recognised with three Global TOP 1 rankings - Ultra-large Screen TV Brand worldwide, Leading Mini LED TV Brand and No1 Google TV Brand globally - by the market research company Omdia, reaffirmed its commitment to delivering unbeatable performance, sophisticated design, and incredible value. However what truly sets TCL apart is that the full 2025 Mini LED range comes standard with HVA panel which can reach 178 degrees Viewing Angles, allowing the whole family to enjoy movies clearly from a wide range of positions.

Spanning up to an impressive 115 inches, making TCL the manufacturer with the largest screen in South Africa, the C6K, C7K, C8K, and P8 offering full range 144Hz refresh rate and cinematic viewing experience with next-generation QD-Mini LED technology.

Designed to deliver unbeatable performance and unbelievable value, the C6K lineup redefines home entertainment by combining next-gen display innovation, elegant aesthetics, and immersive sound. Featuring advanced QD-Mini LED technology with over 512 local dimming zones, high HDR brightness, and a wide colour gamut, it delivers ultra-vivid colours, sharp details, and superior contrast ensuring every scene is lifelike and cinematic.

C6K: Power of Mini LED, Elevated

This flagship performance is driven by TCL’s exclusive All Domain Halo Control Technology, which covers the entire light journey from generation to display. It integrates high-efficiency light-emitting chips, self-developed lens technology, super Micro-OD structure, precision light and shadow control algorithms, and TCL’s self-produced high-end CSOT HVA panels. This full-stack innovation dramatically reduces haloing, enhances black levels, and ensures image clarity from every angle.

By tackling common halo effects and improving light control at every step, TCL delivers unparalleled contrast, depth, and picture precision even in the brightest environments.

Key Features of the TCL C6K QLED Technology

• Next-gen colourful quantum crystal material achieving a wide colour gamut for longer-lasting, vibrant visuals.
• 144Hz Native Refresh Rate
• Ultra-smooth, fluid motion for gaming, sports, and fast-action scenes.
• ONKYO 2.1 Hi-Fi Sound
• Immersive cinematic audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X support.
• Ultra-Slim Design
• Sleek profile with magnetic seamless wall-mounting and ≤ 60mm thickness for a refined aesthetic.
• HVA Screen (85” / 98” Matte Display)
• Anti-glare, reflection-free screen for uninterrupted viewing in bright spaces.
• 178 degree Viewing Angle - you can see the image clearly from a wide range of positions.High Contrast HVA Panels (75" and below)
• Up to 7000:1 native contrast ratio and ultra-wide viewing angles for deeper blacks and richer details.

P8: Big Screen Brilliance Meets Everyday Excellence

The TCL P8 model brings cutting-edge display technology to a broader audience, combining incredible picture quality with smart, user-friendly features. Featuring stunning 4K UHD resolution and TCL’s AiPQ 3.0 processor, the P8 ensures vivid colours, crisp details, and smoother motion for all your favourite entertainment.

Compared to the C6K, the, TCL C7K steps up with additional brightness and more precise lighting control. While the C8K comes equipped with audio by Danish luxury audio brand, Bang & Olufsen in the 50"–98" models, providing a rich, cinematic soundstage that enhances everything from blockbuster movies to high-intensity gaming.

TCL also offers a variety of smart home capabilities, primarily through its Google TV platform and various connected devices including air conditioners, all designed to work together and be managed through the TCL Home App. The new FreshIN 3.0 series aircons, equipped with an A+++ energy rating, while achieving up to 36 percent energy saving is a favourite for the cold winter nights and hot African summers.

“At TCL, we are passionate about driving innovation that transforms everyday experiences, and we’re proud to be the first to introduce All Domain Halo Control Technology to South Africa with our new range,” says Mike Chen, General Manager of TCL South Africa. “South African consumers have shown incredible enthusiasm for TCL’s innovations, and the launch of the C6K series is another step in delivering premium technology, immersive entertainment, and unbeatable value to homes across the country.”

The launch of the full range of QD Mini-LED series is yet another milestone in TCL’s mission to transform the home entertainment landscape, offering South Africans an unrivalled combination of performance, design, and value.

TCL’s exciting new 2025 lineup is now available across South Africa at a special launch promotional rate.

C6K Series Promotional Pricing:

• 55” C6K – R9,999
• 65” C6K – R13,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)*
• 75” C6K – R19,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)*
• 85” C6K – R29,999
• 98” C6K – R59,999

*This exclusive offer is valid until 31 May 2025.

For more information, visit https://www.tcl.com/southafrica/en

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TCL Announces Vodacom Bulls Partnership, Uniting Technology and Sport

Hi Friends, 

TCL Electronics, a global leader in consumer technology and the world’s No. 2 TV brand, proudly announces its partnership with the Vodacom Bulls, one of South Africa’s most successful rugby teams. This collaboration marks an exciting step for TCL in expanding its presence in sports, further connecting fans with the game through cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences.

As an official associate sponsor, TCL aims to enhance engagement for Vodacom Bulls supporters in South Africa and beyond, reinforcing its mission to Inspire Greatness. The partnership will provide fans with exclusive content, interactive experiences, and exciting promotions across TCL’s range of premium TVs, soundbars, air conditioners, and home appliances. Supporters will also have the opportunity to participate in competitions and games with the lucky winners receiving official Vodacom Bulls gifts and merchandise. TCL will also invite its customers to watch live matches at Loftus Versveld Stadium as well as meet and greet with current players.

Mike Chen, General Manager of TCL South Africa, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "We are thrilled to join forces with the Vodacom Bulls, a franchise that embodies excellence, passion, and resilience values that align with TCL’s commitment to innovation and progression. This partnership strengthens our connection with South African sports fans while bringing our advanced technology to enhance their viewing experiences. We look forward to engaging with supporters across Africa who share a deep love for rugby."

Edgar Rathbone, CEO of BBCo, welcomed TCL to the Bulls family: "We are excited to partner with TCL, a brand that continuously pushes technological boundaries to enhance the way fans experience entertainment and sport. As a team committed to innovation both on and off the field, we see great synergy with TCL’s vision. This partnership is not just about branding it’s about enhancing the way rugby is experienced, from the stadium to the living room."

Where Technology Meets the Thrill of Rugby

TCL understands the power of live sport the thrill, the camaraderie, and the emotions that unite fans across the globe. With XL screens up to 115” QD Mini LED TV, TCL ensures that fans never miss a moment of the action, delivering immersive, stadium-like viewing experiences that bring the game to life.

As part of this exciting partnership, the TCL brand will now feature on all Vodacom Bulls Senior Men’s and Junior team kits, cementing its presence in one of club rugby’s most iconic franchises.

With this powerful synergy between technology and sport, TCL and the Vodacom Bulls are set to redefine how fans engage with rugby both in the stadium and at home.

About TCL Electronics

TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is a leading consumer electronics brand and leader in the global television industry. TCL now operates in more than 160 markets around the world. The company specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, home appliances, mobile devices, smart glasses, commercial displays, and more. Visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com.

Your Views Are My Only Blessings!

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TCL Leads, the world follows: World’s Top Television Tech Leader Sets the Bar

Hi Friends, 

Often when we consider the volume of technological advances, we can fail to recognise just how much this has completely changed the world around us even in our homes and offices. It is not only in highly visible technology areas such as space tech and communications that massive advances have been made but even in the humble television.

Considering that the first televisions were made less than a hundred years ago it is quite remarkable that the tech we see today has developed in such a short space of time.

One of the groundbreaking leaders driving this innovation is TCL Electronics, a global giant in consumer electronics. With decades of pioneering advancements in television technology, TCL Electronics stands at the forefront of the industry. The company boasts an impressive portfolio of 130,000 technology patent applications and operates 43 research and development centres worldwide.

Given that TCL Electronics acquired its first television division only in 1994, its rapid advancement in TV technology is truly impressive. Since then, the company has been at the forefront of Mini LED technology development. With three generations of innovation under its belt, TCL has emerged as a pioneering leader in the Mini LED TV industry.

In 2019, TCL Electronics made headlines by unveiling Vidrian, the world's first Mini LED technology. The following year, they introduced groundbreaking displays with the world's first 6.7" AMOLED rollable display and a 17" printed OLED scrolling display. By 2021, TCL pushed the boundaries even further with the world's first OD-Zero Mini LED TV.

TCL's commitment to innovation is supported by its advanced research facilities, which include facilities for optical design simulation, Mini LED technology (Pangu), screen technology, picture quality algorithms, and automatic tuning.

The company’s labs are accredited by CNAS and include energy efficiency, safety, and wireless performance labs, as well as internationally recognized TÜV Rheinland and Intertek testing centers.

Since 2018, TCL Electronics has been at the forefront of Mini LED technology. Their pioneering efforts began with the world's first Mini LED TV in 2019, setting a new industry standard. In 2021, TCL further cemented its leadership by launching the world's first 8K TV with OD-Zero Mini LED technology.

In 2022, TCL Electronics introduced the C12E 4K Mini LED TV, featuring DBR chip coating and dispensing technology, which won prestigious awards such as "EISA PREMIUM MINI LED TV" and "EISA BEST BUY LCD TV."

TCL's latest innovation is their QD-Mini LED technology with Halo control and the revolutionary TCL AiPQ processor, marking a new era in television display excellence.

The company’s success extends beyond display technology into audio innovation and strategic partnerships. In 2017, TCL launched the world’s first 7.1.4 channel Dolby Atmos TV sound system with the 85X6. By 2021, the X12 series introduced the world’s thinnest 15mm 5.1.2 channel TV soundbar. In 2022, the X11 series debuted as the first ultra-thin TV with a fully integrated 2.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos sky sound system.

TCL’s commitment to its “Inspire Greatness” philosophy is evident in its advancements. Their technological achievements have earned them the title of the world’s leading brand in large-screen televisions, reflecting the brilliance and innovation at the heart of their cutting-edge technology.

For more information on TCL's range of products and how they are enriching the home entertainment experiences of South Africans, visit the TCL South Africa website https://www.tcl.com/southafrica/en

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Mini LED: The Beauty of The Moving Image

Hi Friends, 

The term "Mini LED" is used to describe the latest technology in TV displays that uses a smaller LED chip to produce the same brightness as a larger chip.

This miniaturized design allows for finer control of lighting levels, which makes it ideal for use in both home and commercial lighting applications.

The smaller size of the chip allows for a higher density of LEDs, which increases the amount of light produced by each unit. This also allows manufacturers to reduce costs by reducing the amount of material used in their manufacturing.

The Mini-LED chip is also ideal for use in small, portable devices such as laptops or mobile phones, where space is at a premium. The technology allows manufacturers to make their products thinner and lighter than ever before, which makes them more attractive to consumers.

Mini LED is also ideal for use in outdoor applications such as streetlights and security lighting. Because the LED chip can be produced at a higher density, it provides brighter illumination with less power consumption than traditional lighting technologies.

Mini LED vs. OLED – A Tale of Two Technologies

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes Mini LED different from OLED and why it's great.

First, the Mini LED is not OLED. While both use organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) to power their displays, they differ in how they produce colour on that display—and as we all know, colour is everything when it comes to TVs. OLEDs create each pixel by firing a single red or green or blue diode, which means that any pixel can only be one colour at a time—so if you want an image with a white background and black lettering, for example, you'd need multiple pixels in the same area (or "subpixel").

Mini LED uses many smaller diodes—each one pumping out lots of different colours instead of just one—to make up every subpixel individually! This lets us create images with more vivid colours than ever before (with no murkiness).

OLED is an emissive technology, while Mini LED is a transmissive technology. This means that OLED screens emit light and have a wider viewing angle than Mini LED displays, which need to be viewed straight on to see the picture clearly. OLED has a higher contrast ratio than Mini LED with similar brightness levels, and it also boasts faster response times for fast-moving action scenes or video games where you need to react quickly.

However, OLED has poorer black uniformity (black outlines around objects on screen) compared to Mini LED displays and it cannot display as deep blacks as those found in home theatre projectors, which use an entirely different projection technology altogether (DLP).

TCL Mini LED TV

TCL Mini LED TV with Quantum Dot Display. The TCL C855 feature 97% WCG, better contrast ratio and brightness, better black levels, and colour accuracy.

Local Dimming Technology

Local dimming technology is a display technology that allows the darkening of specific areas of the screen to create contrast and more natural images. It can be used in both LCD and OLED displays, and there are two types of local dimming technologies: edge-lit and back-lit. Back-lit local dimming occurs when the backlight is divided into a number of selectively controllable zones that can be independently turned on and off.

Edge-lit local dimming occurs when LEDs along the edges are controlled individually to allow for very precise control over how much light reaches each part of the display panel.

Powerful Chipset

The Mini LED is powered by amazing hardware, which allows you to stream 4K content without a hitch. The device also packs in 3GB DDR + 32GB Flash of memory, as well as USB 3.0 support for fast transfers and data transfers. You’ll also find Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting other devices like headphones or speakers, and WiFi 6(2.4G+5G) for connecting to the internet anywhere at any time.

The Era of Google Assistant

If you're looking for a new generation of smart functions that can be used to control the TV's functions, TCL's Mini LED/ Google TV is here. This powerful operating system allows you to control your smart TV with ease. With this software platform, you can enjoy intuitive control and access to thousands of apps without having to switch devices or platforms.

With this feature, all you have to do is say “Ok Google” into the remote control or your voice assistant of choice (Siri or Alexa), and then search for what you want on your screen!

This new technology will change the way you perceive TV in the future.

Mini LED is a new and advanced technology that will completely change the way you perceive TV. It is an era of television that will allow you to see it in a different way. With this device, you can access all your favourite apps, like Netflix and Hulu Plus. It’s easy to use with just one hand and has a remote control that lets you navigate through menus with ease.

We are excited to bring the next era of television with Mini LED to consumers worldwide.

TCL is a global brand with a focus on quality, innovation, and creativity. With our goal of becoming the world's leading manufacturer of smart devices in mind, we are excited to bring the next era of television with Mini LED to consumers worldwide.

Mini LED is the future of TV technology. It represents our commitment to providing consumers with the most advanced products in all categories, including flat-screen TVs and large-screen displays, through enhanced design aesthetics as well as improved picture quality and sound quality.

About TCL:

TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is a leading global consumer electronics brand, specialising in TVs, audio equipment, home appliances, mobile devices, and more. With a presence in over 160 markets, TCL is dedicated to innovation, quality, and enriching the lives of consumers worldwide. Learn more about TCL at www.tcl.com.

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TCL Partners with renowned retailers to expand their Distribution in SA

Hi Guys, 

TCL Electronics, the world's Top 2 TV brand and Top 1 98-inch TV brand is pleased to announce some significant partnerships with one of the most prominent retail chains in South Africa, (Makro). This strategic collaboration aims to strengthen TCL's market presence and provide enhanced accessibility to TCL products across the country.

The partnership leverages Makro’s extensive retail network and TCL's innovative product offerings to bring a wide range of cutting-edge technology consumer electronics to South African consumers. As part of the partnership, TCL's innovative premium televisions and smart home solutions will be prominently distributed at retail stores nationwide, offering customers unparalleled access to enhanced and high-end technology.

"We are excited to partner with the most highly recommended store in South Africa to expand our footprint in the country,” said Mr. Mike Chen, General Manager of TCL South Africa. "This collaboration highlights TCL's commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative products to consumers across the region. Makro’s strong retail presence and customer-centric approach align perfectly with TCL's values, making this partnership a natural fit."

TCL Electronics is renowned globally for its commitment to technological advancement, always being at the forefront of innovative designs and consumer satisfaction. By joining forces with Makro and making the partnership a success, TCL aims to enhance customer experiences and provide easy access to its premium products through Makro’s retail infrastructure.

Customers can look forward to experiencing TCL's latest technologies firsthand and benefit from Makro’s commitment to exceptional service and value.

For more information about TCL's products and availability at Makro stores, please visit TCL's official website.

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10 Years of www.TheLifesWay.com #TheLifesWay #BlogAnniversary #10YearsofTheLifesWay

Hi Friends, 

10 years is a mark that you think will change something but it's not like that as it's just your ego making mental challenges. I never thought that I will one day reach this point but I started The Life's Way only to carry on till the end of my life. I don't know if anyone will take it afterwards but it's a one-person effort, time, money and investment. I could never grow the same and it still is where it is as a one-person blog. 

In 2022, I changed my pivot to not waste time on brands that are not valuing me but rather than expectations in my mind and heart for them to recognise and send me their products or services. But this kind of mentality needs to be corrected so it's always better to set your expectations at the start of your services for the other brand. I think I have done enough in the last 10 years for hundreds of brands that made full use of me without any benefits in return. I don't blame them but it was me who never told me what I expect in return at the start of the partnership. It was rather a one-sided affair as I kept promoting them. 

During 2022, I deleted all the posts that don't serve my readers so the count has come down from 2500 posts that were for 9 years of The Life's Way to this one which is going to be 2050 or near that. I also spent more time reading and listening to books. I walked more than 1000 kilometres in 2022 instead of sitting in front of my laptop and the internet to post press releases for free or any trade exchanges or any kinds of benefits whatsoever. It's better to invest in your attitude, mental peace and learning. 

The Life's Way achieved 3.85 Million pageviews in 2022 despite spending very less time and reducing the number of posts and press releases. I am not so sure how much I will cross but based on the run rate I think I will be around 4.25 Million pageviews by 27-Dec-2023 the target that I have set for myself is around 5 Million. It's not going to be an easy task to get more than 1 Million pageviews in a single year and also I am thinking of migrating from Blogger to WordPress if possible. 

Coming back to the achievements during the course of the 10th year of The Life's Way - I did some of the paid assignments with theSalt influencer marketing company that really helped me earn some money along with some free products as well. I did a campaign for Webfluential as well along with one for the Vodacom Pay contest from YouTube Shorts and also for the Evetech Creator contest. The Salt ones fetched me some cash which really helped me buy all the stuff I bought in 2022. I spent much more than I earned in 2022 as I am thinking about it now. 

The best thing that happened in 2022 was the coming together of my brother's family and my parents all coming together to South Africa and we went to Kruger National Park for a 4 nights trip which was amazing. Then I went again to Hermanus to see the whales that were also on my wish list for many years. Then to end the year, I went to Mauritius which was my first international trip for more than 15 days on an island. All these trips were self-paid and not sponsored as some influencers thought and were jealous about. There is nothing to be jealous of as I paid for all these trips myself only the cameras to take pictures with were given for review and taken back after the completion of the trip. 

I focused mainly on YouTube channels creating long-form videos and Shorts and both took me in different directions. Long-form videos got me into the YouTube Partner programme after completing 1000 subscribers and 4000 hours of watch time in a single year. The YouTube Shorts took me into the Shorts Community by virtue of which I attended my first ever YouTube live events in person and virtually and received a lot of YouTube swag to enjoy as well. I also received my first YouTube payment too and which was USD 121 in the month of Nov-22. 

I did a lot of unboxing videos along with stationery videos and 100s of shorts. In total, I did around 159 long-form videos and 323 Shorts in 2022. My biggest dream came true was meeting Cycle Baba that I dreamed of in 2021 when I came to know that he is going to come to Africa. I met him on April 22 and shot a small interview video with him as well. 

I also completed 42 years of Hanuman Chalisa which was a dream work I wanted to do for many many years now and I could complete it before my birthday on July 22. I could finish the same in May or Jun-22 which was a month before the target time I allocated. It left me to focus on the walks and audiobooks. 

The products that were on my dream list that I shared were not fulfilled at all. I didn't get an Apple Macbook or DJI Gimbal or Canon EOSM 22mm lens. My father though gifted me Apple Earpods with wireless charging (2nd edition) that my brother gifted him. My brother also gave me his 7th generation Kindle Paperwhite I am enjoying it a lot and spent a lot of time reading books. I did buy certain products that I always wanted to own like RGB Headset stand, Monitor Arm. After buying them I felt good but not using them any longer as it hurts your eyes when you are sitting right on top of them. So all the RGB lighting that looks great on videos and images is just torture and stressful for your eyes for sure especially for me as I wear glasses so it gets a lot of reflections. 

This year I focused more on buying my own stuff rather than winning the same as I have been doing over the years. This is the year where my expenses rose more than my income from The Life's Way. I bought a lot of Pilot and Lamy Fountain Pens along with a lot of online courses from Skillshare, Udemy and other platforms like getAbstract. I did get some new kinds of opportunities this year where I went to a lot of conferences and in-person sessions. It did fetch me some special gifts that I never expected and showcased to you on my YouTube channel as well. 

I have not moved to another smartphone and still using the same ones (Note 20 and Z Flip3) as I was at the end of 2021 so nothing has changed much this time around. I did review some of the smartphones from Huawei, Honor, Nokia, Vivo, TCL and Samsung including some tablets as well. Those all were great phones but they went back as they came for a review period of 14 days or so. TCL phone people got really interested when I posted the unboxing video on my YouTube channel. 

The main focus remained on getting more and more Youtube videos and shorts and the blog took a little bit of beating due to the same. I kept making a lot of blog posts in my mind but the actual typing of those words never happened. It's still happening and I do think about all the posts in terms of storytelling but the words never get typed and directly go into videos if that happens. 

I am not sure what 2023 will bring for me but I hopefully want to change my mindset towards wealth and growth. I want to take risks in my job, career and money. I want to grow my channel to reach 100k subscribers on Youtube and the blog to cross 5 Million pageviews as told earlier. I will do my own thing and if I can align with some brands I will do it else just live my life on my own terms. 

Aum Namah Shivay!

Till next time...Aashish 

Thanks! Cheers!!! 

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