Luck is not a divine hand that singles us out amongst the crowd. It is a series of opportunities seized and multiplied by what we do every day. The roots of true success are often found in the habits we cultivate and the attitudes we foster. Here is how luck finds you, through ten timeless principles that echo through the wisdom of India’s rich cultural heritage.
- Work Harder Than Expected: Hard work has no substitute. The Mahabharata, an epic tale of war and wisdom, narrates the story of Ekalavya, who despite being denied formal instruction, practiced archery with unrelenting dedication, eventually surpassing all royal princes. His commitment exemplifies that extraordinary effort can bridge the gap between the possible and the impossible.
- Stay Teachable: Wisdom in Hindu philosophy is often likened to an ever-expanding ocean. Teachers in ancient India were held in high regard, and the greatest students were those who remained ever-curious and humble. Chanakya, a legendary teacher and philosopher, advised, “Learn as if you were to live forever.” This eternal student mindset keeps you growing and evolving.
- Give Without Expecting a Get: The concept of ‘Nishkama Karma’ (selfless action) from the Bhagavad Gita teaches us to act without attachment to outcomes or expectations of reward. This altruistic approach to life attracts more profound respect and cooperation from others, paving the way for unexpected opportunities.
- Read and Write More: Indian literature stresses the power of knowledge. Rabindranath Tagore, a luminary of Indian culture, wrote extensively on the freedom of thought and expression. “A mind all logic is like a knife all blade,” he said, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the mind with vast and varied readings to keep it sharp and expansive.
- Show Up on Time: Punctuality is a virtue that is appreciated universally but is particularly respected in India where time is seen as a manifestation of God, according to ancient scriptures. Being on time shows respect for others’ divine essence, and in return, elevates your esteem in their eyes.
- Focus on Relationships: In Indian culture, relationships are viewed as sacred and are nurtured with deep commitment and loyalty. The Panchatantra, a collection of animal parables, illustrates the importance of relationships through stories emphasizing mutual trust and moral values, teaching that wealth in relationships far exceeds material riches.
- Develop Good Manners: The Taittiriya Upanishad teaches, “Satyam vada, dharmam chara” (speak the truth, follow the dharma). Good manners and truthfulness create an aura of trustworthiness and dignity around a person, which in turn opens doors to new opportunities and connections.
- Be Humble: Humility is considered one of the highest virtues in Indian philosophy. The Ramayana teaches us through Lord Rama, who despite being a king, displayed unparalleled humility and grace, winning the hearts of friends and foes alike. Humility invites more learning and growth, essential components of luck.
- Be Kind and Generous: Kindness and generosity were personified by King Ashoka, who, after witnessing the suffering caused by his conquests, turned towards Buddhism and spread the message of peace and generosity. His legacy teaches us that our kindness not only transforms others but also alters our own life’s path, attracting luck and goodwill.
- Surround Yourself with Smarter People: As in the ancient Gurukul system, where students lived near their guru, drawing from their wisdom daily, surrounding yourself with those who challenge and inspire you ensures you are constantly learning and evolving, which is the essence of true success.
Luck, therefore, is something you prepare for every day through these principles. Each step taken in these directions not only cultivates a better self but also prepares the ground for opportunities to find you. As it’s said in India, ‘Luck favours the prepared mind.’ In preparing yourself through these ten ways, you become the architect of your fortune, crafting a destiny rich with success and satisfaction.
Prof. Dr. Prahlada N. B
29 May 2024
Chitradurga.
I wholeheartedly agree with the statement! "The roots of success are often found in the habits we cultivate and the attitude we foster" is a profound insight that highlights the significance of our daily habits and mindset in achieving success. Here's why:
– _Habits shape our behavior_: Our habits, whether good or bad, determine our actions and ultimately, our outcomes. By cultivating positive habits, we set ourselves up for success.
– _Attitude is everything_: Our attitude influences our perspective, resilience, and motivation. A positive, growth-oriented attitude helps us navigate challenges and stay focused on our goals.
– _Consistency is key_: Success rarely happens overnight. It's the result of consistent effort, persistence, and continuous learning. Our habits and attitude help us stay committed to our goals.
– _Mindset matters_: Our mindset determines how we approach challenges, learn from failures, and adapt to change. A growth mindset, in particular, helps us embrace challenges and continuously improve.
– _Small wins add up_: The habits we cultivate and the attitude we foster may seem small or insignificant in the moment, but they accumulate over time, leading to significant progress and success.
– _It's a journey, not a destination_: Success is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process. Our habits and attitude help us stay focused on the journey, learning and growing along the way.
In essence, the statement reminds us that success is not solely dependent on talent, luck, or external factors but on the intentional habits we cultivate and the attitude we choose to foster every day. By focusing on these roots, we can build a strong foundation for achieving our goals and living a fulfilling life.
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