Life is like a sport

LIVE LIFE SPORTINGLY 

Wanting to play is a natural trait; we can see it in every child. Children are more their original selves when they play than when they study. They wait for every chance to play with their mates, unmindful of even eating or sleeping. There is so much cheer and joy when children run about, trying to catch and evade. There is never a need to force children to play because playing is joy, and who doesn’t want joy?

Sports, as a formalised platform to play, happened as the human civilisation evolved, and several games and their structures came about. While we know the thrill of playing a sport and the thrill of watching people play, there are several intricacies that the field of sports can reveal to us as life’s lessons. The field in which a game is played is akin to the field of life.There are teams of which some people favour us on our side and several others oppose us on the other side. This is similar to how different people interact with us differently in our lives at different times. Not everyone is a friend all the time; not everyone is a foe all the time. Different people relate with us in different ways in the field of life too, and their ways and behaviours towards us vary from time to time.

There are wicketkeepers, goalkeepers, catchers, and counter-attackers who constantly target our moves and try to prevent us from reaching our goals. Even in the sport of life, we face several challenges, both inside and outside, that elude us and hinder our progress.

There are dolly catches and the most difficult catches. Sometimes, we get the ‘golden ducks’, and other times, we last on the field till the game calls it a day. Sometimes, we are the tail-enders, and other times, we are the openers. Sometimes there are those slower balls that seem promising but end up deceiving us, and many times we may also be skittled out soon. Oftentimes, we may receive the jaffa (the unplayable ball), which is difficult to handle, and other times, we may be playing the same to someone, making it difficult for them to handle. Beamers and bouncers could be coming our way, too.

There are moments of victory when we least expect it and moments of failure despite our efforts. We are sometimes blamed, and other times praised. We are sometimes the star, and other times, we are no one. There are times when an opponent becomes a friend, and a  friend turns out to be less friendly.

At the end of it all, when the game ends, we shake hands with each other, looking eye to eye, knowing well that it was just a game and that everyone played their parts to perfection, giving their all and sweating their body. The happiness of our opponent in our loss and their desperation to bring an end to our game, in fact, made our game more interesting and made us strive to do our very best. It wouldn’t be half as interesting if there were no opponents to play with us. A game is a game only when there is a melange of all kinds of experiences, and none of it comes our way without a reason, and none of it is hence a bad experience.

Everything that happens throughout, all the time, is helping us in our progress and journey. It is with this understanding that we must look at the game of life. Loss and gain, pain and pleasure, betrayal and trust, friendship and animosity, judgements and acceptance, love and hatred—all these opposites do exist all the time. But remember, the ones who love you and the ones who don’t as much are both helping you. In fact, the person who criticises you and condemns you is playing an important part in your progress because he is playing the bad cop and pushing you beyond your comfort zone.

Here is how you can sport life: 

#Be aware that ‘Life is a game’. Everyone is just playing their role. 

#Be alert and keep your focus on the lessons you can derive from every situation and every person.

#Your mind can be your friend or enemy. Always befriend your mind and gradually master it.

#You are here for a purpose. Focus on your goal without getting distracted. 

#Do not hanker after fame, wealth, positions, possessions, reputation and remarks. They come and go.

#Delve into your true self and be yourself. This is your true worth.

#Your treasure is within you. Derive strength from within and blossom from within.

#Thank everyone, every situation, everything—everything has been carefully orchestrated to help you.

#Smile and take it easy. Unburden yourself of excessive thinking and analysis, negativities and notions, prejudices and plans.

#Never give up. You must finish the game that you have started even if you are to lose.

#Correct yourself before trying to correct others.

#There is a message in life’s every turn, and it is for you to catch it, contemplate on it, and take corrective action. Be a good sport in life, just like you would aspire to be on the game field. Play the game of life out of passion for life and living, learn and grow, be wise and keep an observant eye on life’s positive sides. 

Have a good playtime on the field of games and life, too!

The best method for setting priorities

A-B-C-D-E

All successful people focus their time and energy on their work of highest value. Good performance is about the capacity to focus and concentrate on the job of top priority. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by too many things to do and too little time in which to do them, sit down, take a deep breath, and list all those tasks you need to accomplish.

The best method for setting priorities is the A-B-C-D-E Method.

“A” stands for “very important”, something you must do. It is going to decide your success or failure.

“B” stands for “important”, something you should do. This is not as important as your ‘A’ tasks.

“C” stands for things that are “nice to do”, but which are not as important as ‘A’ or ‘B’ tasks.

“D” stands for “delegate.” You can assign this task to someone else who can do the job instead of you.

“E” stands for “eliminate, whenever possible.” You should eliminate every single activity you possibly can, to free up your time.

When you use the A-B-C-D-E method, you can very easily sort out what is important and unimportant. This then will make us be focused on those items on your list that are most essential for you to do.

Six powerful teachers

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY and HOW

Knowing the answers will help you in school. Knowing how to ask questions will help you in life.- Warren Berger

Questioning, a life skill: Questioning is the ability to organise our thinking around what we don’t know. This is an essential skill today. Doubting the existence of something is always a good habit, as in doing so, we are led to question, and by questioning, we arrive at the truth.

Questioning is the fountainhead of knowledge. In the early days, people wondered as to who created the world and arrived at the simplified explanation that one was created by a supernatural being. But as more people searched further for the how and why, more civilised our society got. We questioned why some animals resemble some others, and got the answer that all animals have evolved from a common ancestor. We proved that we are not created but we have evolved over 3.5 billion years. All the knowledge we possess is the product of questioning. Questioning is not the exclusive right of the police detectives, it is a universal skill. Your calibre of questions is assessed more critically than the answers provided by parents, teachers and friends.

Six teachers: Questioning gives you answers that will make you resourceful in science, maths, geography and even in various languages. WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY and HOW are the six powerful teachers.

For instance, have you ever taken time to observe your surroundings or the sky? Especially in the twilight and night sky, have you noticed the four stars in the early evening sky? Have you wondered what they are? Indeed , these are not stars, they are planets, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. You know that the brightest one is Venus, but have you questioned why Venus is so bright? And have ever wondered what that red planet is? The red one is Mars, and it appears red as it has iron oxide on its surface.

Questioning can lead to understanding delightful facts about our world, and it can be a source of much wonder and joy, giving us contentment and pride. This curiosity further motivates you to ask more questions, which is where we summon our six teachers.

The art of questioning: The art of questioning can be mastered with practice. You may just listen to the questioning of well-known personalities on television. Questions must be constructed and asked logically in such a way that the motive of what you want to know is communicated to the person being questioned. One must also question keeping in mind niceties and the sensitive nature of certain information and questions.

Basic questions: Questioning has changed the history of humankind. Concepts like gravity, earth’s rotation on its orbit and revolution around the sun were all the answers arrived at by people who relentlessly asked questions about it and sought answers. Similarly, if you begin questioning your life too can change. Some of the life changing questions that you should ask are: Who am I? Am I related with people around me? What do I want to do and get from my life? How can I contribute to my world, school or my house? What are my strengths and weaknesses? Where am I? and Where do I want to reach? Such questions will help you to change the course if necessary and keep you on the right course.

Question everything: He who asks a question is a fool for five minutes, but he who does not ask a question remains a fool forever. If you question everything, you will not believe in many things that you believe in today. Questioning is the mother of knowledge. Never stop questioning.

BALANCED MINDSET

Maturity 

Maturity is a mindset, not an age. While society often associates maturity with getting older, the truth is that maturity has more to do with how you think, react, and handle life’s challenges than with the number of years you’ve lived. Maturity is about the choices you make, the way you approach situations, and the level of responsibility you take for your actions. It’s a mindset that can be developed at any age, and it’s what truly defines your character.

One of the key elements of a mature mindset is the ability to see beyond yourself. Mature people understand that the world doesn’t revolve around them, and they consider the perspectives and needs of others when making decisions. This doesn’t mean they always put others first to the detriment of their own well-being, but they have the wisdom to balance their needs with those of others. They recognise that actions have consequences, not just for themselves but for those around them, and they act with this awareness in mind.

Maturity also involves emotional regulation. Life is full of situations that can trigger strong emotions, whether it’s frustration, anger, sadness, or joy. Mature people do not let these emotions dictate their actions. Instead, they have the ability to manage their feelings, staying calm and composed even in difficult situations. This emotional stability allows them to make decisions based on logic and reason rather than being driven by impulsive reactions.

Another important aspect of maturity is the willingness to take responsibility for one’s actions. Mature people do not shy away from accountability. They understand that every choice they make has a consequence, and they are willing to own those consequences, whether positive or negative. This sense of responsibility extends to their relationships, work, and personal goals. They don’t blame others for their mistakes or failures but instead look within to understand how they can improve and grow.

Maturity also means being able to learn from experiences. Life is a series of lessons, and mature people approach each experience as an opportunity for growth. Whether a situation goes well or poorly, they reflect on what happened and think about how they can apply those lessons in the future. This mindset prevents them from repeating the same mistakes over and over because they are continually evolving and becoming better versions of themselves.

Patience is another hallmark of a mature mindset. Mature people understand that not everything happens on their timeline. They are able to wait for the right moment, knowing that some things take time to develop. This patience extends to how they interact with others as well. They don’t rush to judgment or react hastily but take the time to consider all aspects of a situation before making decisions.

Maturity is also reflected in how someone handles conflict. Mature people don't avoid conflict but approach it with a problem-solving attitude. They don’t engage in petty arguments or seek to “win” at all costs. Instead, they focus on finding resolutions that are fair and constructive. They communicate openly and honestly, seeking to understand the other person’s point of view while also expressing their own.

In essence, maturity is about growth. It’s about recognising that life is a journey of learning, and that every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to become wiser, stronger, and more compassionate.  Mature people don't ’t cling to rigid ideas or behaviours; they are flexible and open to change because they understand that growth requires adaptation.

Maturity isn’t something that automatically comes with age. Some young people exhibit remarkable maturity, while some older individuals may still struggle with impulsiveness and self-centredness. The difference lies in mindset. Choosing to be mature means choosing to live with responsibility, empathy, and a commitment to personal growth. It’s a way of thinking and living that allows you to navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom, making choices that reflect not just who you are, but who you aspire to become.

EACH ONE IS A MASTERPIECE OF GOD

Everybody deserves to be somebody

The reception clerk in a posh hotel looked down at a small man who had just asked for a room. The customer looked so unimpressive that the clerk told him immediately that no rooms were available. About that time the hotel manager came out of his office to the desk, recognised the man and called the clerk aside. He whispered to her that the man asking the room was Pierre Monteaux, who, for many years, was the distinguished conductor of the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. 

The clerk came back to the desk, apologised, and said, "Why, of course, sir, we can take care of you! Why didn't you tell me you were somebody, Mr Monteaux?"

Whereupon Maestro Monteaux emphatically told the clerk, "Madam, everybody is somebody." And he quickly turned to leave the hotel. 

Never be afraid to help others in their time of need, nor ever treat others with scorn; whoever they be. You never know when you may need that shoulder to lean on. It is said, "Every time you mistreat someone, you reveal the part of you that lacks love and needs to heal." Yes, everybody is somebody because each one is a masterpiece of God, moreover, a child of God. Everyone deserves respect. 

Too many of us, in our daily life, fall into the shameful pattern of ranking people especially by their looks, and judging someone as nobodies! Let us treat people the way we want to be treated, and talk to people the way we want to be talked to. Likewise, let us all try to be somebody who makes everybody feel like somebody!

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.

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.

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. 

WORDS WORTH READING

Perception

 

People's perception about us defines them and not us. We meet so many people in our daily life. All these people have their own opinions about us. Some people may have good opinions about us while others may not. It is really interesting to know how many different perceptions different people can have about the same person. 

Many people get too attached with other people’s perception of them. They become very happy when someone appreciates them and become very sad when someone insults them. This type of person cannot be happy whatsoever because a person cannot satisfy everyone at the same time.

The moment we earn admirers, we also earn critics. We cannot control what other people think about us. In our society, it is the most commonly seen problem that people care too much about what others will think and in the process of pleasing everyone, we end up losing our own identity. This mentality is one of the main reasons contributing to the increase in depression in people. 

A person’s perception depends on his or her values and inner state of being. So, when a person says anything about us, it stems from his or her way of thinking, which again is based on his or her past experiences and / or traumas. We should not be attached to other's opinions about us. If a person has good opinion about us, then it means that he or she is a good person; it does not necessarily mean we are good. And vice versa. Hence we shouldn't be attached to good and bad opinions. 

Now this does not mean that we will become overconfident and start to think that we are perfect. We must develop our own perception about ourselves and our life and we must honestly criticise our negative actions. Our own perception about ourselves should be unbiased and strong. It should not be affected by others' perceptions. By doing this, we can live devoid of any unnecessary sadness caused by others' words and/ or actions. At the same time, we can constantly progress by criticising ourselves from time to time. 

WORDS WORTH READING

Attitude Is Everything

Once, there were three bricklayers. Each one of them was asked what they were doing. The first man answered gruffly, “I’m laying bricks.”

The second man replied, “I’m putting up a wall.”

But the third said enthusiastically, and with pride, “I’m building a cathedral!”

It is said, “Our attitude towards life, determines life’s attitude towards us.” A good attitude is the start to a good future, and, a lot of success. 

Our attitude towards whatever we are doing, decides our ultimate level of success. Being able to see the end result, rather than just the task, eliminates obstacles, focuses our energy, and provides us motivation to excel. 

As you move ahead in life, during and after studies, please keep in mind that having a positive attitude, brings about many wonderful opportunities. In class, and at work. Apositive attitude may not necessarily solve all our problems. But it is the best option we have to get out of problems.

Positive thinking has the power, to turn a hard day into a manageable one, and a good day into an even better one. Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results. 

You’ll be braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. Keep in mind that pessimism leads to weakness and optimism to strength.Therefore, shape your attitudes accordingly.

ART OF LIVING

Live in the Present

There is a story of a man who was a real workaholic, and did not ever waste a single moment of his important life. 

On his way to town, he would plan what stores he would shop in. Once in a store, he would plan where he was going to take a walk. During the walk, he would plan where he was going to eat. While eating his main dish, he would plan on what he was going to have for dessert. While eating dessert, he would look at the schedule to choose the bus he was going to take home. And so on...This man never paid attention to what he was actually doing. He was always getting ready for the next event. Then one day he came to something he was not prepared for. As he lay dying, he started reflecting on his life. He was shocked at how empty and meaningless a life he had led. The man had never lived in the present. Now there was nothing he could do about it! 

This is indeed a story for thought. Nowadays, we are always busy. We do this, that, and a lot of other things. But do we really live as we progress in life? Do we take time to enjoy the company of our family and friends? 

Let us strive to set aside some time for play and laugh. Concentrate on the present action and then move ahead. Planning everything is a good thing. But a good plan implemented today, is better than a perfect plan implemented tomorrow. 

There is a famous quote by Bill Keane: 

“Yesterday is history, 

Tomorrow is a mystery, 

Today is a gift of God, which is why it is called the present. 

So living in the present is the most important thing”.

FEELING SURE OF YOURSELF

Confidence 

What Is Confidence?

Confidence means feeling sure of yourself and your abilities — not in an arrogant way, but in a realistic, secure way. Confidence isn't about feeling superior to others. It's a quiet inner knowledge that you're capable.

Confident people: 

● Feel secure rather than insecure 

● Know they can rely on their skills and strengths to handle whatever comes up

● feel ready for everyday challenges like tests, performances, and competitions 

● think "I can" instead of "I can't"

Why Confidence Matters?

Confidence helps us feel ready for life's experiences. When we're confident, we're more likely to move forward with people and opportunities — not backaway from them. And if things don't work out at first, confidence helps us try again.

How to Be More Confident: Everyone can work to gain more confidence. Here are a few tips to try:

● Build a confident mindset. When your inner voice says "I can't," retrain it to say "I can". Or you could also say, "I know I can learn (or do) this if I put my mind to it."

● Take a safe risk. Sign up for a school committee, volunteer to help with a project or any school activity, or try out for a team or talent show. Raise your hand in class more often. Talk to everyone in class.

● Challenge yourself to do something that's just beyond your normal comfort zone. Pick something you'd like to do if only you had more confidence. Give yourself a little push and do it. Now that you've done that, pick something else to try — and keep repeating this same process. Confidence grows with every step forward.

● Know your talents and help them shine. We're taught to work hard to improve our weaknesses. Sometimes that's important, like bringing up a bad grade. But don't let working on a weakness prevent you from getting even better at the things you're good at.

● Do your homework. Study. Do assignments. Prepare for class, tests, and quizzes. Why? If you've been keeping on top of class work all along, you'll feel more confident in tests and finals. The best defence against test anxiety and school stress is to keep up and do the work steadily.

It takes courage and confidence to be real. But the more real we are, the more self-confident we become. Confidence builds self-esteem.

INFUSE JOY INTO YOUR AND SOMEONE ELSE'S LIFE

 The Significance Of A Smile

Have we ever thought about the gestures we use daily, knowingly or unknowingly, that have a profound impact on our lives? One such gesture, right under our noses, has the power to make us happier and potentially lengthen our lives. Can you guess what it is? Yes, it's the simple yet powerful act of smiling.

The smile is a ubiquitous and heartening gesture, connecting us all, whether acquainted or strangers. This simple expression has the remarkable ability to infuse joy into someone's life, fostering a sense of unity and warmth.

A study reveals that the frequency of smiles tends to decrease as we age. Astonishingly, adults over the age of thirty smile, on average, only 40-50 times a day, whereas children effortlessly clock in 300-400 smiles daily. The  bustling lives and responsibilities gradually overshadow the simplicity of smiling.

A smile costs nothing but holds immeasurable value. It transcends language barriers, brings solace to the weary, and bridges the gaps between strangers. As we navigate our daily routines, let's preserve this innate ability to smile and rediscover the joy that a sincere smile can bring.

So let us all wear a big genuine smile on our faces. Embrace the positivity it radiates and carry it forward, creating a ripple effect that transcends the boundaries. A smile is a universal language, and by sharing it generously, we contribute to creating a world filled with warmth, kindness, and joy. Let's spread this infectious energy of smiles, uplift the spirit with a smile in our day-to-day life. May your days ahead be filled with countless reasons to smile!

A STORY WORTH READING

Parable of a king and his four wives

Once upon a time, there was a King who had four wives.

He loved the fourth wife the most, spoiling her with his deepest affection and providing her with only the finest things life could offer.

He also loved the third wife and proudly displayed her to the neighboring kingdoms.

He relied a lot on his second wife. She was his trusted advisor and companion. Whenever the King faced a problem, he could confide in her, and she would help him get through the difficult times.

However, not much can be said about his first wife. Despite her significant contributions to maintaining his kingdom and her tireless efforts to win his love and admiration, the King barely noticed her existence.

One day, the King fell gravely ill. Despite his efforts to find a cure, he realized that his time was running out.

He reflected on his majestic life and decided to spend everything to prolong it, leading him to consult a mystical sorcerer. The sorcerer said, “I’m sorry, Your Highness, but nothing can be done. Your death is imminent. However, I will grant you the chance to take one wife with you into the afterlife.”

Thus, he asked his fourth wife, “I have given you nothing but the best in life. Now that I’m dying, will you accompany me into the afterlife?”

“No way!”, replied the fourth wife, and she walked away without saying a word.

The sad King then asked the third wife.

“No!” replied the third wife. “Life is too good here! I’ll stay! When you die, I’m going to remarry!”

He then asked his second wife.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t go with you,” replied the second wife. “I can only see you to the edge of your grave.”

The King’s heart sank, and he felt a deep sense of despair. He was utterly devastated.

Then he heard a weary, sad voice, speaking softly: “I’ll go with you. I’ll follow you no matter where you go.”

The King looked up and saw his first wife as if for the first time. She appeared aged beyond her years, barely recognizable due to years of neglect. With deep regret, the King said, “I should have taken much better care of you while I had the chance!”

MORAL: We all have these four wives in our lives.

The FOURTH wife is our BODY.  

We often shower our body with the most affection, spending our lives adorning it with exquisite clothing and ornaments. Yet, in the end, it will abandon us when we die.

Our THIRD wife is our POSSESSIONS.  

We invest much of our time and energy in accumulating wealth, but none of it will accompany us when we die. Instead, it will be divided and passed on to others.

Our SECOND wife is our friends, family, and relatives.  

We love and trust them, and in return, they offer us comfort and support when we need it. However, no matter how long they remain by our side, they can only accompany us up to the point of our burial.

And our FIRST wife is our soul (SPIRIT).  

We often neglect our soul (spirit) in the pursuit of wealth, pleasure, and power, not realizing that it is only our soul (spirit) that accompanies us after death. While it's important to take care of our bodies by staying healthy and exercising, and to enjoy time with loved ones, we must also remember to nurture our greatest treasure: our spirit.

To lead a fulfilling life, it’s essential to find balance in caring for the four aspects of our existence: our body, our earthly possessions, our relationships, and our soul or spirit. By giving each of these areas the attention they deserve, we create a harmonious life where we are not only prepared for the end but also enriched in the present.

PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT

Jump From Failure to Success

Just because you experience a setback does not mean it's time to give up, in fact failure means you have learnt something and you have to do something differently. Failure does not mean you have wasted your life, instead you have reason to start a fresh. Probably who never made a mistake never succeeded. 

Life is not about what you could not do so far, it's about what you can still do. Winners are not people who never failed, they are the one who never quit. There are many achievers who struggled in their life before achieving success, to quote a few:

● Dhirubhai Ambani worked in a petrol bunk

● Abdul Kalam was rejected in the interview of pilot 

● Amitabh Bachchan was rejected for the job of All India Radio, because of his baritone 

● Sachin Tendulkar failed in tenth standard 

● Michael Jordan was dropped out from his high school basketball team 

● Bill Gates did not even complete his university education 

● Lionel Messi worked as a tea server in a shop to support his football training

● Tony Blair was called as a "Failure" by his teachers 

● Albert Einstein was called as "slow" and also "mentally handicapped" by his teachers. In fact  he did not speak until he turned four years, and did not read until he was seven 

● J K Rowling's book "Harry Potter" was rejected twelve times by the publishers

● Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times while creating a light bulb. But learnt 10,000 ways of not creating a light bulb. 

Hence failure and hard work is a stepping stone to your success. So work hard with strong mind. Remember not to keep postponing work. Set your goals, overcome the obstacle, have a positive attitude, accept the challenges, and thus prove what you are. 

MAKE WINNING A HABIT

Motivating words of Vincent Thomas Lombardi

 

The man of goals, Vincent Thomas Lombardi, is widely considered to be the greatest football coach of all times. Throughout his 15 seasons as a coach, his teams never experienced a losing season. He is one of the best coaches in history. The speech titled "No. 1" by Vincent Lombardi serves as a motivational source that can be implemented in both our personal and professional lives.

"What it takes to be #1" is a practical guide written by the renowned coach Vincent Lombardi. For all students, business leaders or those who aspire to leadership, it provides a blueprint for success. 

His impressive thoughts... 

According to Vincent Lombardi, "Winning is not a sometime thing. It’s an all time thing. It actually means that you're willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else. You don't win occasionally.... but you win all the time. Make winning a habit."

Vincent Lombardi's strategical approach to win every time... 

With strong will, he states, "There is no room for second place. There is only one place in my game, and that’s first place. It is and always has been a winners zeal to be first in anything they do, and to win, and to win, and to win."

Each time a football player takes the pitch, he must start from the ground up, beginning with the soles of his feet and working his way up to his head. He has to use every inch of himself. 

Some guys play with their heads. That’s O.K. More importantly, you must play with your heart and every fibre of your body." 

Vince's suggestive Organisational Techniques... "Making a football team is similar to managing any other type of organisation such as an army, a political party or a business. The principles remain unchanged. The objective is to emerge victorious by outperforming the opponent. 

It is a fact of life that men have a competitive nature, and the games that are the most competitive tend to attract the most competitive men. The goal is to achieve victory through fair and just means, adhering to the established regulations - but ultimately to emerge as the winner."

His staunch belief... 

"I have faith in the existence of God and in the inherent goodness of humanity. I strongly believe that the most significant moment for any person, where they achieve the highest level of satisfaction, is when they have put in their utmost effort towards a noble purpose and are left drained on the battlefield, having emerged victorious."

SET AN EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS

Dare to be different 

Being different means thinking and doing things in a different way and keeping away from what others are thinking and doing. Being different does not mean you are wrong. It means being you. It means you stand out to explore new ground. At the same time, it does not make you less interesting or less valued as a person. It makes you accomplish your goals by following a different way that the others are not following. That is your own unique way and it defines you. It makes you who you are and keeps you living in your own way, defining your terms with your values.

It is to set an example to show others that there are alternate ways to accomplish things. Being different may be a bit difficult and hard. However, it is not bad. Diversity offers different prospects by expanding ways to boost productivity and success. Every human being behaves differently in different circumstances and we are all unique in our personality. While we cannot change our past, we can very well control how to react to it. Sometimes this uniqueness makes us beautiful. 

Why should we be different and what are the benefits that we are going to get by being different? Acknowledge what makes you different and that becomes your uniqueness. Your uniqueness is your gift. Celebrate it, because being different is a remarkable gift. Always be confident that your uniqueness is your asset and it makes you special and valuable. By being different you live a life that is true to yourself and that inspires others to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. Being different makes you strong and you become a source of connection and belongingness. 

It makes you authentic. It boosts your creativity, making you innovative in your approach. By thinking unconventionally, experimental solutions can be achieved to solve problems in various fields of your life, including personal matters. Uniqueness in your approach gives you self-confidence, which inspires others, and they may approach you to get solutions for their problems. It may ignite confidence in others and encourage them to accomplish their goals. 

However, while we have advantages in being different, we cannot rule out the disadvantages also. 

Sometimes being different makes you less confident and you may get worried about what others might say or think of you. You find that nobody understands you. It may land you in an embarrassing situation. But all said and done, let us not compromise our uniqueness. Let us do things in our own way differently from others to set an example. If we study the lives and achievements of many successful people we will realise that they did not care for what the others said and trod on the path they thought was best for them for their courage to be different. 

When we take the road less travelled, we arrive at a new destination which nobody has arrived at yet. Extraordinary people do not do things extraordinarily, rather they do things differently. Let us change our perception and rethink the way we do things. Christopher Morley, an American journalist and essayist says,

"Read everyday something that no one else is reading. 

Think everyday something that no one else is thinking."

To keep our uniqueness we require courage, self-confidence and steadfastness. People may mock at our actions and may avoid our presence. But remember, being different is like a diamond among the pebbles. 

It is not something to aspire, but it is something that will inspire others. It gives us our identify and speaks about us whenever we go. Trying to be like everyone is exhausting but trying to be you is also empowering. Sometimes being different makes one feel like being alone or isolated. But actually it makes one the happiest. At times one feels it like a burden, but that is what makes one great. Let us remember the words of Albert Einstein:

"The one who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. Those who walk alone are likely to find themselves in places no one has even seen before."

Let us show our uniqueness since it looks beautiful. 

A PERSON WITH REMARKABLE TALENT AND INTELLIGENCE

Genius 

     A genius is an individual who has exceptional intellectual or creative abilities, talent, and skills that are significantly beyond what is seen in a normal person.

  They are individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields like arts, sciences, movies, or other areas of human endeavour. Famous examples of geniuses are Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, Mozart, and others. But it's important to note that the definition of a genius can vary depending on cultural and social contexts. There is no objective or universally agreed standard for what constitutes a genius.

     Geniuses have shaped the world we live in today with their innovative ideas and groundbreaking discoveries. While their exceptional abilities may seem inborn, the habits of geniuses have played a crucial role in their success. Here are some of the most common habits that geniuses have that you can also incorporate into your daily life to unlock your inner genius.

Curiosity - This is a trait that is commonly associated with geniuses. They are always curious about the world around them and have an avid desire to learn and explore. They ask questions, challenge assumptions, and seek out new experiences. To develop your curiosity, start asking questions about the things that interest you. Read widely to expose yourself to different perspectives and ideas. Take up new hobbies and activities that challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone.

Persistence - They are known for their persistence and determination. They don't give up easily and easily put in the time and effort required to achieve their goals. To develop your persistence, set clear goals for yourself and create a plan to achieve them. Break them into smaller, achievable steps, and focus on making progress each day. When faced with obstacles or setbacks, don't give up. Instead, use them as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Open-mindedness - They are open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. They consider viewpoints that are different from their own and are not afraid to challenge or cancel their own beliefs. To develop open mindedness, seek different viewpoints and perspectives. Listen to others without judgment and try to understand their point of view. Challenge your own beliefs and be open to changing your mind.

Creativity - They have the ability to think outside the box. They come up with innovative solutions to problems and see things from a different perspective. To develop your creativity, engage in activities that allow you to think creatively. Take up creative hobbies such as writing, painting, or music. Brainstorm ideas and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative solutions to problems.

Focus - They focus intensely on a task or project for extended periods. They can shut out distractions and maintain their concentration, allowing them to achieve exceptional results. To develop your focus, eliminate distractions. 

In conclusion, while geniuses may seem like they possess unique talents that cannot be replicated, their success is also due to the habits and traits they develop over time. By incorporating these habits into your own life, you can also unlock your inner genius and achieve exceptional results. Remember to stay curious, persistent, open-minded, creative, and focused, and you will be well on your way to achieving greatness.

Some Famous Quotes

Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration - Thomas Edison

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination - Albert Einstein

Genius is the ability to put into effect what is in your mind - F. Scott Fitzgerald

Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see - Arthur Schopenhauer 

Genius is the power of carrying the feelings of childhood into the powers of manhood - Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Genius is the capacity for productive reaction against one's training - Bernard Berenson

A genius is someone who sees the same thing in a different way - Unknown

The greatest genius will never be worth much if he pretends to draw exclusively from his own resources - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Genius is the art of taking pains- Thomas Carlyle

Genius is the ability to renew one's emotions in daily experience - Paul Cezanned

WORDS WORTH READING

Always be confident

People talk about lack of confidence all the time. Let’s now talk about what happens when we have too much of it.

Once a fox and a wildcat met on the outskirts of a village.

“This is a dangerous place,” said the cat, “infested with wild dogs.” 

“Dogs don’t bother me,” boasted the fox. “I know a hundred ways to get away from those stupid animals.”

Just then, they saw a pack of wild dogs coming. “Goodbye, friend,” said the cat. “I’d better be going. Unlike you, I know only one way to get away from dogs. That is to climb up a tree.” 

And with that, it sped up a tall tree. The fox tried all the tricks it knew in its attempt to get away from the dogs. But it was soon caught and killed. 

It is said, “Confidence is good, but overconfidence always sinks the ship.” 

Yes, excess of everything is bad. Even too much of confidence can be ruinous. An overconfident person always considers himself to be right. Such people also disregard pros and cons of things. Thus they often tend to make wrong judgements, and disastrous decisions. To them, the experienced or learned opinions of others do not matter. 

Be confident. But not overconfident. Remember that overconfidence precedes carelessness. It blocks your progress in many ways. In studies and in life, do your part well; and that too with confidence and determination.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

Learning till Death

After having been sentenced to death, Socrates, Greek philosopher, was languishing in prison. 

One day he heard a fellow prisoner singing a beautiful lyric. Socrates went to him and asked the prisoner to teach him that lyric. The prisoner was surprised and asked Socrates why he, who had been sentenced to death, wanted to learn that song.

Socrates replied, "I will be happy if I could learn one thing more before I die!"

It is said, "Never stop learning, because life never stops teaching". 

American author Brian Herbert once said, "The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice". 

The human being is very much a social person, and learning always happens, either directly or indirectly in interaction with other people.

Learning is the ability to do something better. And it is a life-long process.

As children, we are sent to schools and colleges to learn. 

"Why learn?", you may ask. 

We learn because it equips us with all that is needed to make our dreams come true. It transforms us into good human beings and better citizens. Remember the saying, "If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you."