Author: Bal Bansal

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Dream Big

1 Month Down…

Hasn’t January gone so quickly!

January 2026

So, now we have the rest of 2026. And the question is, what does it hold for us?

For me – I’ve started to write and publish a few posts on Medium.com (platform for news and information). I was contemplating writing about football on Substack, but as we’re half way through the season… makes it a little more interesting, right?

This blog will always be dedicated to technology, leadership, behaviors and such topics.

And the biggest thing is… we are only getting closer to 2027!

So what are your goals and habits that you are forming?

One of the things I’ve been talking for a while is coaching. Executive coaching. Many of you know, I’m a football coach. I’ve done all the training and received some great qualifications/badges. And I’m transferring some of that, mixed with my fondness of John Wooden and a little bit of Ted Lasso (yes… I know it’s a made up character!) and offering executive coaching!

It’s being pulled together, but if you’d like to learn more, drop me a message.

I’ve been coaching for a while. And I thought, why not set it up in a manner that, if you’re an executive, professional or someone who needs some coaching, then I can help!

There’s the usual frameworks.

There’s the usual goals, timelines, etc…

And yes, we’ll document all that. Because it’s important to measure the success. But most important of all is… improvement.

Did you improve?

Have you moved to where you want to be?

I’ve been blessed with so many great mentors and coaches in my life. I’ve taken a lot of learnings from them, and been able to identify what really helps… and what, doesn’t.

I’ll keep you updated how this journey goes for the rest of 2026.

But more importantly.. what have you planned for February and 2026? (remember Atomic Habits?… if not, find it in my previous blog post)

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Bal's Friday Thought

Bal’s Friday Thought…

Think about the outcome, not the output.

Understand the process, break it down and understand.

Don’t chase… build to attract.

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Bal's Friday Thought

Bal’s Friday Thought…

Whatever comes easy, goes easy! I was told this when I was younger. The harder you work, the more you learn, the more sustainable the result it.

The struggle is great…

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Bal's Friday Thought

Bal’s Friday Thought…

My last blog post was about my habits for 2026.

This stemmed from the book, Atomic Habits. And guess what, I found the below infographic that explains what Atomic Habits is about.

Whilst this is an overview, I still recommend you read the book…

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Plans for 2026?

Monday 12 January.

New year, new plans?

For me… yes and no.

You may recall, last year I shared that the book Atomic Habits gave me a wonderful idea. I had cards printed (12, one for each month) and a list of things I wanted to get better at. And guess what, I did it!

And for 2026, I’m carrying some of them forward. For example, Reading. I love to read now. And I’m making a habit of reading for at least 15 minutes a day (if not more).

I had ‘going to the gym’ on my card last year. Something I’ll carry over, but adapt. To ‘exercise – weights or cardio’. And that’s the great thing, you can adapt and improve.

So is there anything new for 2026?

Yes.

Some of you may be aware of the Baller League

So what is it?

The Baller League is an innovative six-a-side indoor football competition that blends high-level sport with digital entertainment. Originally founded in Germany in 2024 by entrepreneur Felix Starck with backing from Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski, it has since expanded to the United Kingdom and the United States.

Last night, we had the final of season 2 in the UK. Wembley Rangers won the title. SDS came 2nd. My preferred team, NDL FC.

I have found the Baller league to be wonderful. It’s a combination of quick high intensity football (very similar to futsal) and then you have the social element, with content creators (so many people with camera’s!) all filming, recording, commentating, etc…

So I’ve decided, I’d love to coach one of the teams.

And how do I get to do that?

Well simple, I need to showcase my talents. My football coaching talents. And this is one of the new items for my 2026 Atomic Habits card. That’s right – football coaching with a process and an end goal. If I don’t make the end goal, that’s ok – I’ll have fun along the way and learn alot.

What are you committing to doing in 2026?

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What a wonderful year…

2025 has been a wonderful year of learning.

Work-wise, (in case you missed my Linkedin post), I was asked to step into my boss’ role (VP Technology Business Management) as he went on a secondment.

Honestly – had a great time! Led the time, went to Seattle to talk to tech partners and did so much more!

As the saying goes… you learn by doing!

Oh… and if you’re a Matt Armstrong fan like me, Hard Work Beats Talent!

So what are my key lessons from this year?

  1. Think Fast & Slow
    • (It’s a book also) But essentially, what I’ve started to do is slow down where I don’t have the knowledge so I fully understand and then go at speed where I’m comfortable!
    • Honestly, the more you slow down, the more you realise, see and understand.
    • If you have the opportunity, read the book.
  2. Do More… (Just Do It!)
    • Honestly, throw yourself into positions and conversations
    • If you’re not meant to be there – you’ll read the room and realise
    • The more you do, the more rewards you’ll get. Just think, should I do this and go above and beyond – if the answer is yes… go ahead and do it!
    • But also – learn about timing. Because timing is everything!
  3. Increase your EQ!
    • As the saying goes – people remember what you did than what you said
    • Increase your Emotional Intelligence
    • The little things will always mean something big to another person
  4. Read a book
    • Honestly, i’ve enjoyed reading some great books this year.
    • Grab yourself a book, and in the words of Nas (the famous rapper who was an early investor of Ring and other startups and has made alot of money!) Read more, learn more, change the globe

So they are my top 4 main lessons from 2025

I’d be interested to know what your top lesson this year was…

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Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

Hope you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

I appreciate you reading my blogs this year. Next year, I’m planning to do more videos, photos and graphics to share more about tech and leadership.

Hope Santa got you what you wanted…

Take care, enjoy the festive break and be good.

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Winter Solstice

What is it?

The longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere is marked by different events and traditions around the world.

So basically, today is the shortest day of the year – but just how short it is depends on where you are in the world.

For me, in London, the sunrise was at about 08:04 GMT and sunset will be around 15:53 GMT

From now on, the days, slowly, will start to get longer and the nights shorter.

And I’ll be honest with you. I prefer longer days an shorter nights. Why? Because I just feel, I can get more done!

But tech does help me when the nights are shorter – and I’ve got plans to help me next winter! Such as…

  1. Additional smart lighting.
    • I’ve decided to clean up the garage – at long last! And install some smart lighting in there. Now, it won’t be Hue (which I have in my house), because in the past few years, plenty of newer and lower cost lighting modules are available. I’ll keep you updated to what I get
  2. Staying warmer
    • I do like to be out doors. But in the winter, I do tend to hibernate a little. And what I did to get out more during winter is have some rechargable hand warmers! That’s right, little devices, you charge them via USB C and then turn them on, they emit a low heat and keep your hands warm! Next year, looking for that heated jacket!
  3. Eating healthier
    • I’ll be honest. During winter/Christmas, I do tend to pig out a little. And it’s not good. So I’ve decided, next year – I’m going to meal prep but also, take ideas from insta-famous celebs and ensure I’ve got their healthy meals ready!

Have you thought of anything for next winter?

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Shopping

Cyber Monday Deals

Cyber Monday Deals… Today!

Cyber Monday has become one of the biggest online shopping events of the year, offering massive discounts across tech, fashion, homeware, and more. It started when the internet was new… yes, for some that’d be like, new? hasn’t it always been around?!

No, it hasn’t always been around and here’s a roundup of some of the most exciting Cyber Monday deals that are expected to catch attention this year.

1. Tech and Electronics

Technology remains the star of Cyber Monday, with major UK retailers slashing prices on popular gadgets. I’ve already mentioned key tech bargains in my other blog post but here’s a summary….

  • Amazon UK: Expect deep discounts on smart home devices like Echo speakers, Fire TV Sticks, and Kindle e-readers. Laptops, monitors, and gaming accessories are also likely to see significant markdowns.
  • Currys: Known for competitive deals on TVs, laptops, and kitchen appliances. Look out for bundle offers on smart TVs and soundbars.
  • Argos: Great for deals on Apple products, gaming consoles, and wearable tech such as Fitbits and smartwatches.

2. Fashion and Beauty

Cyber Monday is also a great time to refresh wardrobes and stock up on beauty essentials.

  • ASOS: Typically offers up to 70% off across thousands of items, including top brands and exclusive collections.
  • Boohoo and PrettyLittleThing: Expect sitewide discounts and flash sales throughout the day.
  • LookFantastic and Cult Beauty: Beauty lovers can find discounts on premium skincare, haircare, and makeup brands.

3. Home and Lifestyle

From furniture to kitchen gadgets, Cyber Monday brings plenty of deals for the home.

  • John Lewis & Partners: Known for quality homeware and electronics, often price-matching competitors.
  • Wayfair: Offers major discounts on furniture, lighting, and décor.
  • Lakeland: Great for kitchenware and small appliances, perfect for holiday cooking. And this is a good one. I bought myself some items for the baking I do at home from Lakeland.

4. Travel and Experiences

Cyber Monday isn’t just about physical products—many UK travel companies join in with enticing offers.

  • British Airways: Look out for discounted flights and holiday packages. And don’t forget your Avios points!
  • Expedia and Booking.com: Often feature reduced rates on hotels and travel bundles. But do try to check out hotel company websites… for example, I know IHG (Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza and many more) offer double points!
  • Virgin Experience Days: Ideal for gifting, with deals on spa days, adventure experiences, and dining packages.

5. Tips for UK Shoppers

  • Compare prices: Use price comparison tools to ensure the discount is genuine.
  • Check delivery times: Some items may have longer shipping times due to high demand. It’s all about how quick you want the goods.
  • Sign up for newsletters: Many retailers offer early access or exclusive codes to subscribers. Costa and other coffee shops do this really well.
  • Shop early: Popular items can sell out quickly, so act fast once deals go live. I always say this… do your research and if it’s something you want and it’s at a good price, go get it!

Bal’s Cyber Monday Final Thoughts

Cyber Monday in the UK offers a fantastic chance to save on everything from tech to travel. With careful planning and quick action, you can make the most of the day’s discounts and tick off their holiday shopping lists at unbeatable prices. So go on… treat yourself…

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Bal’s Friday Thought…

First and foremost… Happy Thanksgiving to everyone who celebrated yesterday.

I know it’s Black Friday sales today, and most people will be out shopping.

However… I still wanted to share my Friday Thought. Which today, is all about being you…