-
Keep expectations low.
We often have certain things in mind when we start a journey, but if you are hit by a thunderstorm and can’t scuba dive. This doesn’t mean the ocean isn’t beautiful . Don’t be disheartened. Basically — flow with the flow. -
It is an opportunity only a few get — please treat it like one.
Very soon into the journey, you will start questioning how even you fit into the train (if you don’t resonate, move on to the next point). Please remember, everyone is on their journey. Unlike school and college, adulting has no set path or milestones. You are the hero of your own story. You’ve shined before and you will shine again — that’s literally why you are here right now.
I would highly suggest you attend as much as you can. It is a trip around India; each venue, each speaker, and each keynote has been chosen very strategically. Even if it’s not an area of your interest, you never know what clicks when. -
Friends on the train.
You will eventually attract the right ones, but choose wisely. Mine kept me sane and motivated me to continue on the train till the last day. -
Food.
It didn’t suit me at all! But the food on the train is better than what’s available at platforms. You can get protein bars, and Zomato wherever possible. I also became friends with the caterer bhaiyas, who then helped me keep the fibre ratio high in my diet. -
Washrooms.
Early bird catches the worm. We woke up before everyone else to use the restrooms in the morning. During the day, it’s manageable. I carried my own toilet paper, portable jetspray (PeeSafe), wet wipes, etc., in a tote bag. -
Showering.
It’s much better than you expect! We would find out when the water would be loaded and go right after. For girls, it is more manageable. They have plastic tubs, but the boogie floor is always wet. What worked for us: a bath tote bag with toiletries and a post-bath dress (think bathrobe, but more compact). Change in your sleeping compartment. -
Carry everything they suggest.
Pillow, bedding, extra bedsheet, simple clothes, jackets, etc. -
Be open to ideas that come up — and even if they don’t.
You might meet the coolest people on this train. I still meet really cool people because of JY. Please interact with whoever you vibe with. We hosted meetups, conferences, almost a yoga session too. Asaanjo was born on the train. Nothing is impossible. -
If you feel like it’s getting too much, don’t worry — just give it one more day.
-
Take the presentations and challenges seriously.
They can be career stepping stones.If you still need help, call me 🙂
