DO YOU KNOW

Why do people shrink as they get older?

As people age, it’s common to get shorter. This can start as early as in your 30s! By the time men reach 70, they can lose about an inch, while women may lose two inches. But why does this happen?

As we age, the cartilage between our joints wears out, and conditions like osteoporosis cause bones to weaken, making the spine shorter. Another condition called Sarcopenia leads to muscle loss, which can also make people shrink. 

By eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D and staying active, older people can help keep their bones strong and slow down the shrinking process!

TO PROTECT TREES IN WINTER

Wool or thread bombing

Trees in the cold? Koreans knit blankets to protect trees from low temperatures. Since ancient times, in traditional Korean culture, trees were considered more than just an earthly plant; they were sacred trees. 

Also, South Korea is one of the many countries that live through the four seasons of the year and in December they have to go through the really cold winter season. 

For this reason, a community of elderly people in “Jeongdong-gil” have a wonderful custom every winter. It is a practice in which the elderly take their needles and knitting elements to make blankets or coats that they wrap around the trunks of the trees. This art, also known as “wool or thread bombing,” initially sought only to recover the trees and personalise sterile or cold public places, but now it has advanced as a positive influence to recover traditional arts such as knitting and crocheting and with it, to care for and shelter their trees in busy avenues with a lot of pollution. 

Likewise, when Korean trees are sick, they are treated with serums that are injected into them through plastic containers so that they can drink from them over time and recover in the spring and summer.

KEEP MOVING FORWARD

Dealing with setbacks 

There may be days when you feel sad of unexpected setbacks. Your marks may not be up to your expectations. Your parents may not be able to offer the support you expected from them.There are times when people disappoint you and let you down. Even your best friend might have behaved in a rude way.

But these are the times when you must remind yourself to be confident of yourself. If you believe in yourself and continue fighting for what you want, then people will understand you and they will be kind to you.

Recognise that dealing with failures and setbacks is a part of moving forward. No one wants to fail, but thinking that you will never fail is unrealistic. Take responsibility for your part in the failure so that you can learn from it.

Successful people didn’t get there automatically. They had to overcome many obstacles. They built enormous self-confidence during the days of their struggle. 

● Albert Einstein could not talk before the age of four.

● Winston Churchill had to repeat a school year.

● Beethoven was scolded that he would never become a composer.

● Thomas Edison’s teacher told him: “ You are not worth enough for school education”.

● Walt Disney was fired because he wasn’t creative. 

But they all made it! Think of them as being your silent mentors.

Whatever setbacks you are experiencing, whatever people say about you, keep on believing in yourself. Analyse the reasons for your set back, change your strategy and move on.

Remember the words of the famous television commentator, David Brinkley: “ A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him or her.

DO YOU KNOW

What makes popcorn pop?

A popcorn kernel is actually a seed. At its centre is a tiny plant embryo, a life form in its earliest phase. The embryo is surrounded by a soft, starchy material that contains water. Surrounding the embryo is a hard shell. 

When the dried popcorn kernels are heated to 356 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius, the moisture inside the kernel turns to steam, the starches inside gelatinize, the steam builds up to an enormous pressure and then the corn POP! When the protective covering or hull ruptures, the starch and endosperm inside the hull expands into a foam which is soft and edible. 

HONOURING INDIA'S FOUNDING DOCUMENT

Celebrating Constitution Day

Every year on November 26, India celebrates Constitution Day, a day that holds great significance for the nation. It marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949, a document that laid the foundation for how India functions as a democratic republic. But what exactly is a constitution, and why is it so important?

What is the Constitution and What Does It Say?The Constitution is like a rule book for the country. It outlines the basic principles and laws that govern India. It explains how our government should operate, what rights citizens have, and what duties they must fulfill. It’s a guide to ensuring fairness, equality and justice for everyone. The Constitution is also a blueprint for how the government should protect citizens’ rights while maintaining order and promoting social welfare.

The Minds Behind the Constitution: India’s Constitution didn’t just appear overnight. It was drafted by a dedicated group of leaders led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, one of the most influential figures in Indian history. These leaders worked tirelessly for almost three years to create a Constitution that would guarantee justice, liberty, equality and fraternity for all Indians. Their efforts were driven by a vision of a free, fair and equal society where every citizen, regardless of their background, would have rights and opportunities.

Why is Constitution Day Important?: Constitution Day is more than just a day to remember the adoption of the Constitution—it’s an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the values that keep our democracy strong. Schools and colleges across the country celebrate this day with various activities like debates, quizzes and discussions about the Constitution. Special assemblies are often held, where students and teachers talk about the importance of the day, and how the Constitution shapes our lives as citizens.This day also serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by freedom fighters and leaders who fought for India’s independence. It’s a day to appreciate our fundamental rights, like the right to vote, the right to free speech, and the right to equality, which were won after years of struggle.

Official Declaration of the Constitution Day: Although the Constitution was adopted in 1949, it wasn’t until 2015 that the Government of India officially declared November 26 as Constitution Day. The goal? To raise awareness about the Constitution and encourage every citizen to understand their rights and responsibilities. This day is a call to action for everyone to engage with the principles that make India a vibrant democracy.

Why Should Students Care About the Constitution? As young citizens, students play a crucial role in the future of India. Learning about the Constitution helps students understand their rights, like the freedom to express opinions or the right to education, and their responsibilities, such as following the law and respecting others. By understanding these, students can grow into responsible, active participants in society, helping to strengthen the country’s democracy. 

So this Constitution Day, let’s all take a moment to celebrate the document that unites us as a nation. Let’s remember the vision of our leaders, embrace our rights, and commit to fulfilling our responsibilities with pride. Together, we can uphold the values that make India a strong, fair, and democratic country!

AN ANECDOTE FROM THE LIFE OF ABDUL KALAM

The unforgettable cheque

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, popularly known as the 'Missile Man of India', held the office of the President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu on October 15, 1931. Having graduated in aeronautical engineering from Madras Institute of Technology, he worked in DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization).

His most popular book was his autobiography titled 'Wings of Fire'. The 'Padma Vibhushan' and the 'Bharat Ratna' are among the numerous awards that were conferred on him. He died at the age of 83 in Shillong on July 27, 2015. The following anecdote which highlights his integrity is a tribute to him.

Once, Dr. Abdul Kalam visited a book fair held at Tirupur, Tamil Nadu and addressed the gathering. After the function, a man came to meet him. He greeted Dr. Kalam with folded hands and said, "Sir, I am a big fan of yours. Meeting you is a dream come true for me. I have a private company where we make wet grinders. I would like to give you a wet grinder as a token of my love."

The man pointed to a box by his side. Dr. Kalam smiled and replied, "Well, I am badly in need of a wet grinder. But, I will take your grinder only if you accept a cheque as payment for the same." Dr. Kalam signed a cheque and handed it over to the visitor.

The visitor took the cheque but did not encash it. He preserved it as an autograph of Dr. Kalam. Two months passed by. One day, he received a call from Dr. Kalam's secretary. The secretary asked him, "Why have you not encashed the cheque at the bank? If you do not do so immediately, we will send your wet grinder, which is still unpacked, back to you."

The man was thus forced to accept payment for his gift. Ordinary people become extraordinary by their words and deeds, which are guided by noble thoughts.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Aurora Borealis

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display that can be seen in the night sky in the polar regions. They are caused by particles from the sun colliding with the Earth's magnetic field. The sun constantly emits a stream of charged particles, known as the solar wind. When the solar wind collides with the Earth's magnetic field, it causes a disturbance in the field. This disturbance creates an auroral oval around the Earth's magnetic poles, which is where the Northern Lights can be seen. The charged particles from the solar wind interact with the gases in the Earth's atmosphere, causing them to emit light. The colours of the Northern Lights depend on the type of gas that is being excited by the charged particles. For example, green Northern Lights are caused by oxygen molecules, while purple Northern Lights are caused by nitrogen molecules. 

The strength and frequency of the Northern Lights can vary depending on the activity of the sun. During periods of high solar activity, the solar wind is stronger, which can result in more frequent and intense Northern Lights displays. It's important to note that the Northern Lights can only be seen in areas where the auroral oval intersects with the Earth's surface. This is why they are most commonly seen in the polar regions, such as Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia. 

In conclusion, the Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon that are caused by particles from the sun colliding with the Earth's magnetic field. The colors of the Northern Lights depend on the type of gas that is being emitted, and their frequency and intensity can vary depending on the activity of the sun.

WISE ADVICE

Guard yourself against manipulators

Once upon a time, a kind Brahmin (a priest) was given a goat. The goat was a gift for performing a ritual. He decided to carry the goat home on his shoulders. Three clever thieves saw him walking through the village. They decided to trick him into giving up the goat.

However, the thieves did not want to steal the goat by force. They came up with a plan to manipulate the Brahmin into thinking the goat was some other animal. They waited at different points along the road for the Brahmin to pass by.

The first thief approached the Brahmin. He said, “Why are you carrying a dog on your shoulders? Don’t you know it’s unclean for a holy man like you to carry a dog?”

The Brahmin was surprised. He looked at the goat but did not believe the man. He kept going on his way.

The second thief met him a little farther down the road. He said, “Oh my! Why would a learned Brahmin carry a dog on his back? How strange!”

This made the Brahmin start doubting himself. 

“Is this really a dog?” he wondered but kept walking.

Finally, the third thief met the Brahmin. He exclaimed, “How shameful! A holy man like you carrying a filthy dog! What will people think of you?”

Now the Brahmin was convinced that he must have been carrying a dog all along. He threw the goat to the ground and ran away. The thieves happily took it.

This story shows how manipulation works. Manipulation occurs when someone tries to get you to do or think something by tricking you. You don’t realise it is happening. The thieves did not take the goat by force. They made the Brahmin doubt himself by repeating the same false idea. This is how manipulators try to control others. They make you question yourself even when you know the truth. 

Manipulators are everywhere. They often fail to control young people because their parents or teachers are there to protect them. For example, imagine being a kid and someone trying to sell you a “magic” light by claiming its battery will never run out. Your parents will tell you that such a battery does not exist. However, you may have to face these situations alone as an adult. So, you need to learn how to identify manipulators and guard yourself against them.

THE WEB MASTERS

Spiders 🕷 

Do you see the spider weaving its web? Is it waiting for an insect to get caught in its web or is it repairing the broken parts of the web? We cannot know the answer to this question, but still it is very fun to guess what the spider is doing. 

Spiders secrete a special material called spider silk from glands in their abdomen. They weave webs by using this secretion. They use their webs to catch their prey, build nests and protect their eggs.

Spiders can make silks with different properties according to their needs. For example, they use dragline silk, which is very durable and flexible, to build the base of their webs or to hang down from a high place. This silk is so strong that it is even stronger than steel of the same thickness.

Spiders produce sticky silk to catch their prey easily. In this way, the prey caught in the web is stuck and the spider catches it quickly. Spiders also produce silks with different properties for various purposes such as protecting their eggs, making cocoons and wrapping around their prey.

Another important feature of spider silk is that it is an eco-friendly material because it can be broken down over time by small living things in nature and can disappear without harming the environment.

It’s just like a rubber, which can be stretched and then go back to its original shape. The properties of spider silk, such as its resistance to temperatures between -40 °C and 200 °C as well as its ability to absorb and hold moisture from the air, enable that the web remains surprisingly flexible and durable.

As a unique material with all these properties, spider silk has been researched by scientists and engineers for years. Scientists are trying to understand the structure of spider silk, and engineers are trying to produce artificial materials similar to spider silks. They are looking for innovative solutions inspired by the properties of spider silk. One such example is the glass protecting birds. Spider webs have a structure that reflects UV light (type of light that we can’t see with our eyes) to keep birds away from the web. Birds can see UV light, so they recognise spider webs and do not hit them. From this feature, scientists developed bird-friendly glass. Thanks to this glass, birds don’t crash into glass-covered buildings.

So, what do engineers think about how and in which other areas spider silk can be used? 

Here are some of the project ideas: Lightweight and durable building materials inspired by spider silk can be used in the production of bridges, buildings or aerospace vehicles.

Spider silk can be used in sportswear and protective clothing thanks to its durability, lightness, flexibility, air permeability and moisture absorption properties.

Spider silk can be used to produce surgical sutures that can disappear over time in the human body.

Inspired by the structure of spider silk, a more durable, flexible and eco-friendly material can be produced instead of plastic.

Durable structures can be built by analysing the geometric structure of the spider web.

The water droplets accumulated in the web also satisfy the spider’s need for water. Based on the water retention property of spider silk, devices that collect water in the air can be produced.

DO YOU KNOW

Why is there a hole in an elevator?

The hole in an elevator, often found at the top of the cab, serves an important safety feature known as an "emergency exit hatch" or "elevator escape hatch". In the event of an elevator malfunction or entrapment, this hatch provides a means of escape for passengers and elevator technicians. Rescue personnel can access the elevator car through this opening, allowing them to provide assistance or evacuate passengers safely. Moreover, the hatch facilitates maintenance work on the elevator's machinery and components, enabling technicians to reach crucial areas easily. 

The presence of the hole ensures that passengers and technicians can be rescued efficiently and enhances the overall safety and functionality of elevators. 

COLLECTION OF STORIES IN BUDDHIST LITERATURE

Jatakas or Jataka tales

The Jatakas, also known as Jataka tales, are a collection of stories in Buddhist literature that recount the previous lives of Gautama Buddha, who later became the historical Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, these tales illustrate moral lessons and ethical principles through the experiences of the Buddha in his various incarnations. The Jatakas portray the Buddha in different roles, such as animals, kings, merchants and ordinary people, demonstrating virtues like compassion, generosity and wisdom. 

These stories service as moral guides, emphasising the importance of virtues and ethical conduct in one's journey towards enlightenment. The Jatakas are significant religious texts in Buddhism and valuable cultural and literary heritage, influencing art, literature and moral teachings across various Buddhist traditions and cultures. 

BELIEVE IT OR NOT

 A Place on Earth Where It Rains Fish!

Imagine looking up at the sky, waiting for rain, but instead of water droplets, you see fish falling! Sounds strange, right? Well, it may sound like something out of a storybook, but it’s actually real. There are places on Earth where it quite literally rains fish. One of the most famous places where this happens is a small town in Honduras called Yoro. There have also been fishy rains in other parts of the world, like Lajamanu in Australia. But how does this happen, and why?

In this blog post, we’re going to dive deep into this fascinating phenomenon and find out the science behind why fish fall from the sky.

Where Does It Rain Fish?

Yoro, Honduras: Home of the “Lluvia de Peces”

The small town of Yoro in Honduras is one of the most well-known places where it rains fish. Locals call it Lluvia de Peces, which literally means “rain of fish” in Spanish. According to the people of Yoro, this bizarre event happens at least once or twice a year, usually between May and July. It occurs after a heavy thunderstorm, with dark clouds and strong winds, and soon enough, fish are found scattered all over the ground.

The locals believe this is a miracle, and there is even a legend that says a Spanish missionary, Father José Manuel Subirana, prayed for the people to have food, and ever since, the fish have been raining from the sky. But is it really a miracle? Or is there a scientific explanation behind this fishy rain?

Lajamanu, Australia: Fish Falling in the Outback

Another place that experiences this unusual phenomenon is a remote town in Australia called Lajamanu. Back in 2010, the people of Lajamanu witnessed fish falling from the sky not once, but twice in the same week! This town is in the Northern Territory, in the middle of the Australian outback. So how did fish end up raining there?

The fish were identified as spangled perch, which are common in rivers and lakes across Australia. However, Lajamanu is hundreds of miles away from the nearest river. So, what caused this strange event? Let’s explore the science behind it.

The Science Behind Raining Fish

You may wonder, how is it even possible for fish to fall from the sky? Well, while it may seem magical, there’s a scientific explanation that can help us understand this mystery.

Water Spouts and Tornadoes

The most common scientific theory behind raining fish is that strong winds, such as waterspouts or tornadoes, are responsible for picking up fish from rivers or lakes and carrying them up into the sky. A waterspout is like a tornado that forms over a body of water. It has a powerful funnel of wind that can suck up water – and anything in it, including fish.

Once the fish are lifted high into the clouds by these winds, they can be carried for several miles. Eventually, when the storm loses its strength or the wind can no longer carry the fish, they fall back to the ground, creating what looks like a rain of fish!

Storms and Weather Conditions

In places like Yoro, the rainy season often brings intense thunderstorms. These storms, combined with powerful winds, can lift the fish out of the nearby rivers. It’s thought that the fish come from the Aguán River, which is located some distance from Yoro. When the winds are strong enough, they can carry the fish all the way to the town, where they eventually drop to the ground.

In Lajamanu, it’s likely that strong updrafts during the thunderstorms lifted the fish from a distant body of water and dropped them over the town. The spangled perch that fell are known to be hardy fish that can survive being out of water for a while, which explains why many of the fish were still alive when they hit the ground.

Fishy Rains Around the World

Honduras and Australia aren’t the only places where it has rained fish. There have been similar reports of fish falling from the sky in other parts of the world, including:

• India: In 2008, people in the Kerala region witnessed fish raining down during a monsoon.

• Iran: In 2023, a video went viral showing fish falling in a village after a rainstorm.

• The United States: In 1947, in Louisiana, there was an event where fish rained down after a storm, causing quite a commotion!

These instances all have similar explanations—strong winds and storms carrying the fish from water sources and dropping them elsewhere. Although it’s rare, these events have been happening for many years and have been documented across the globe.

Is It Dangerous?

You might wonder if raining fish could be dangerous. After all, it’s not every day that fish fall from the sky! Fortunately, these events aren’t usually harmful to people, as the fish are typically small and light. However, it can be surprising for those who aren’t expecting it, and it can cause a bit of a mess with fish flopping around everywhere!

Why Do People Celebrate It?

In some places, raining fish is seen as a blessing. In Yoro, Honduras, people celebrate the Lluvia de Peces with a festival. They believe it’s a miracle and a gift of food from the heavens. After the fish fall, the locals collect them and cook them, sharing the meal with their community. For the people of Yoro, it’s more than just a strange weather event—it’s a sign of hope and abundance.

Can Other Things Rain from the Sky?

Believe it or not, fish aren’t the only things that have been reported to fall from the sky. Other animals, like frogs and birds, have also rained down in various places around the world. The same principle applies: powerful winds or storms lift these creatures into the air and drop them in places far from where they originally lived.

In 1873, a report from Kansas, USA, said that frogs rained down during a storm, and there have been other accounts of frogs falling in Serbia, Japan, and the UK. Like fish, these animals are caught up in strong winds and carried far away from their natural habitats.

Conclusion: While the idea of raining fish might seem unbelievable at first, it’s actually a rare but real event. Thanks to the power of nature, storms, waterspouts, and strong winds can lift fish out of rivers and lakes and carry them high into the sky, only to drop them down miles away from their homes.

HEALING THOUGH SOUND

Gong Bath

Gong Bath, also known as gong meditation or sound healing, is a spiritual practice that originated in ancient cultures, with roots in Himalayan and Southeast Asian traditions. 

Used by indigenous communities and spiritual practitioners for thousands of years, the practice involves the use of resonant sounds produced by gongs, crystal bowls, and other instruments. 

Participants lie down in a relaxed position while a practitioner plays gongs, creating vibrational sound waves that envelop the listener, evoking a state of deep relaxation and altered consciousness. 

The significance of a gong bath lies in its ability to calm the mind, reduce stress, and foster self-awareness. 

The sound frequencies resonate with the body’s own energy, encouraging a meditative state and, often, emotional release. 

Many practitioners believe it aligns the body’s vibrations with the natural frequency of the Earth, known as the Schumann Resonance, facilitating a feeling of interconnectedness. 

The benefits of gong baths are wide-ranging, from promoting relaxation and relieving tension to aiding sleep and reducing anxiety. 

Additionally, sound healing is believed to stimulate healing processes, detoxify the body, and enhance mental clarity, making it a popular practice in holistic wellness and spiritual development.

TECHNOLOGY USED FOR FACE RECOGNITION

Facial Recognition Technology

Facial recognition Technology is a cutting-edge innovation that identifies and verifies individuals based on their unique facial features. 

Some smartphones use facial recognition technology to recognise a face and unlock the phone. Here, the technology simply identifies and recognises a person as the sole owner of the device, thus limiting access to others. Beyond unlocking phones, facial recognition is used in other places too, to identify people in photos, videos or in real time. It is a technology that compares a picture of a person’s face to a bunch of other faces stored in a computer in order to identify or confirm an individual’s identity. 

The biometric software used in facial recognition technology uses mathematics to understand and remember how a person’s face looks and stores it as a faceprint. Deep learning algorithms are used to compare a live capture or digital image to the stored faceprint. 

How it works 

● Step 1: Face detection 

The camera looks at a picture of a face. This can be just one face or a bunch of faces in a group. 

● Step 2: Face analysis 

Next, the camera closely examines the face and studies it. It pays attention to things like how far apart the eyes are, how deep the eyes are set, how long the face is from the top of the forehead to the bottom of the chin and the unique shapes of the cheeks, lips, ears and chin. These are the particular points that make each face different. 

● Step 3: Converting the face into numbers 

The camera changes the face picture into a code made of numbers. It’s like turning your face into mathematical formula. This code is called a faceprint. Just like your fingerprint, your faceprint is also unique. 

● Step 4: Finding a match 

Now, when the faceprint is compared to a bunch of other faceprints stored in a computer, it is looking for a matching puzzle piece. If the faceprint matches the one in the computer, the computer would have found the face it belongs to. 

How is it used 

● Unlocking phones: New mobile phones now use facial recognition to unlock the device. This helps protect personal information and keeps sensitive data safe, especially if the phone gets stolen. 

● Law enforcement: Facial recognition is used to identify people quickly and accurately. This is particularly useful in urgent situations when the police need to find someone dangerous or a person involved in a crime. Officers can also use their smartphones or other portable devices to take pictures of people and compare them instantly to a database of known faces to identify wanted individuals. 

● Airports: Facial recognition is being used at security points within airports to make sure travellers are who they say they are. For example, in Indian airports, Digi Yatra is being used to allow travellers to move through airport checkpoints without using physical documents. Instead, they can use their face to prove their identity, which is linked to their boarding pass. 

● Finding missing persons: Facial recognition can also be used to find missing persons. When reported, the missing person’s photo is added to a database. If their face is recognised at places where cameras are placed, such as airports, roads or railway stations, law enforcement can be notified, making it easier to find them. 

It's important to note that while facial recognition can be very useful, there are also concerns about privacy, security and potential misuse of technology. We need to make sure we take the maximum advantage of it while also making it less risky. 

Did you know?

Automated facial recognition was pioneered in the 1960s by Woody Bledsoe, Helen Chan Wolf and Charles Bisson, whose work focused on teaching computers to recognise human faces. 

AQUATIC ENGINEERING

Lessons from fish

Have you ever wondered what boats and fish have in common? You might think they’re completely different, but here’s a fun fact: some of the fastest and most efficient boats are designed to mimic the shapes of fish! Yes, that's right - engineers and scientists study fish to make boats better. But how does that work? Let's find out! 

Fish are incredible swimmers. They’ve been perfecting their moves for millions of years, and each species has unique adaptations that help it glide through the water effortlessly. Scientists noticed that the shape of a fish's body plays a huge role in how it moves. Some fish have sleek, streamlined bodies, perfect for speed, while others have broader bodies for stability and maneuverability. 

Take the tuna, for example. Tuna-fish are built for speed, with a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that cuts through water with minimal resistance. By designing boat hulls that mimic this shape, engineers create boats that can move faster and use less fuel. 

Dolphins, although not fish, are also inspiring. Their smooth, curved bodies and flexible spines allow them to leap and swim with grace and speed. Boats designed with dolphin-like curves can glide over waves more smoothly, making for a faster and more comfortable ride. 

Engineers are constantly experimenting with new designs, taking inspiration from various sea creatures. Imagine a submarine that moves like a squid or a speedboat that mimics the agile movements of a marlin. The possibilities are endless and exciting! 

So, why is this important? By designing boats that move more efficiently through the water, we can save fuel, reduce pollution, and explore our oceans more effectively. Plus, it’s a great example of how we can learn from nature to make our world better. 

Next time you’re by the water, take a moment to watch the fish. Think about how they move and what makes them special. Who knows? You might come up with the next big idea for boat design! 

Remember, the world is full of amazing connections just waiting to be discovered. 

PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT

Think like an Ant

When was the last time you thought about ants? Yes, ants—those tiny, seemingly insignificant creatures that crawl around your garden or sneak into your picnic, always showing up in hordes. It’s easy to overlook them or dismiss them as mere pests. But have you ever paused to observe them? Take a moment the next time you see an ant, and you will notice something fascinating. They are always busy, whether they are carrying food back to their colony, building intricate anthills, or even fighting off rivals. These little creatures are constantly in action, working tirelessly, and they never seem to stop. 

While many people see ants as nothing more than an irritation to tolerate, you can actually learn a powerful life lesson from them. You might be wondering how such a small, insignificant insect could teach you anything of value. The answer is surprisingly simple. You often look to the greats—successful people, major events, and grand experiences—to learn how to improve yourself, how to succeed, and how to unlock the secrets of life. But sometimes, the greatest lessons come from the smallest and most overlooked things in your environment. And the lesson you can learn from ants? It's one of survival. 

Ants are some of the best survivors in nature. They may be tiny, but their survival strategy is brilliant. You may wonder how something so small could be so effective, and it’s because they follow a simple, yet powerful, process. Jim Rohn, a well-known motivational speaker, called this process the "Ant Philosophy," and he identified four key lessons you can learn from these determined little creatures. Let’s take a look at those lessons. 

Lesson 1: Ants Never Quit 

You can learn a lot from ants when it comes to persistence. Ants don't know how to quit. If you observe an ant heading toward a destination and try to block its path, it won't hesitate to find another way. It will climb over obstacles, crawl under barriers, or navigate around them. No matter how many times you obstruct them, they don't stop moving forward. They refuse to give up and will always search for another route to reach their goal. 

Even if you destroy their ant hill, they will rebuild it over and over. Kick them away from your food, and they will come back again and again. The determination of ants is relentless. The lesson here for you is simple: Never quit. When life presents obstacles or challenges, keep looking for new ways to achieve your goals. Just like ants, you should develop the mindset that no hurdle is final. Keep pushing forward, adapting to the situation, and eventually, you will succeed. 

Lesson 2: Think Winter in Summer 

Ants are masters at thinking ahead. During the summer, they are fully aware that the warm, abundant days won’t last forever. They know winter is coming, and they prepare for it well in advance. While the sun is shining and food is plentiful, ants gather their resources for the tough months ahead. They don’t waste time enjoying the present without consideration for the future. 

This behavior teaches you the importance of planning ahead. When things are going well, don’t assume that they will always stay that way. Prepare yourself for potential downturns. In your life, you can take advantage of the good times by saving, learning, and preparing for periods of uncertainty. You must learn to think ahead, knowing that nothing lasts forever, and make sure you are ready for whatever comes next. 

Lesson 3: Think Summer in Winter 

On the flip side, ants also keep a positive outlook during the winter months. Even when the conditions are harsh, and food is scarce, ants don’t dwell on their current misery. They tell themselves, "This won’t last forever; summer will be here soon." Instead of giving in to despair, they remain patient and optimistic, knowing that better times are just around the corner. 

This mindset is invaluable for you to adopt. When you find yourself in difficult circumstances, remind yourself that they are temporary. Stay positive and know that every challenge will eventually pass. By focusing on the future and maintaining a hopeful outlook, you will be ready to embrace new opportunities when they arise. As soon as the first sign of better times appears, just like ants emerging on the first warm day, you should be prepared to jump into action and make the most of it. 

Lesson 4: Gather All You Possibly Can 

Ants don’t stop when they have gathered “enough.” During the summer, they work tirelessly to collect as much food as possible. They don’t set a limit for themselves and then relax. If there is more to be gathered, they will work extra hours to ensure they have everything they need to survive the winter. Ants don't believe in halfmeasures; they give it their all. 

For you, the lesson is clear: Don’t limit yourself when working toward your goals. Gather all the knowledge, resources, and experience you can. Push beyond what you think is “enough” and strive to achieve more. If there’s an opportunity to improve or advance further, don’t hold back. Go the extra mile and make the most of your time and effort. Just like ants, you should work with dedication and persistence, ensuring that you are fully prepared for whatever lies ahead.

Summary – Applying the Ant Philosophy to Your Life The Ant Philosophy offers you powerful lessons that can be applied to your everyday life. If you adopt the mindset of never giving up, always looking ahead, staying positive, and doing everything in your power to achieve your goals, you will find success. While average people often focus on when they can stop working or when they can take a break, successful people are constantly looking for the next step, the next challenge, and how to keep moving forward. This shift in mindset can make all the difference in your journey. 

When you make the transition from wanting to quit to embracing the effort and pushing ahead, you open up endless possibilities for yourself. Every day becomes an opportunity to do something meaningful and wonderful, to make progress toward your goals. You can transform your life by maintaining persistence and a proactive attitude, much like the ants who never stop seeking ways to overcome obstacles. 

Always keep in mind the importance of taking advantage of good times when they come. The saying "Make Personal hay while the sun shines" is a valuable reminder for you. Opportunities and favorable conditions don’t last forever, so you should seize them when they arise. Similarly, bad times won’t last forever either. Just as ants prepare during the summer for the winter ahead, and remain positive during the winter in anticipation of better days, you too should be mindful that both highs and lows are temporary. With this mindset, you can navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience, knowing that perseverance will eventually lead to success. 

Finally, we can end this article with a quote by Robert Schuller - Most people who succeed in the face of seemingly impossible conditions are people who simply don’t know how to quit.