Life Lessons Beyond the Books

As I pen down these reflections, I am reminded of the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

As a student, in the whirlwind of academic pursuits, professional aspirations, and the occasional escape into the world of art, I often found myself caught in the rhythm of routine. My world revolved around textbooks and syllabi, with a laser focus on securing the top spot in class. Family visits, movies, and occasional outings were sprinkled into the mix, but my existence was largely caught within the pages of academia.

It’s a familiar narrative, isn’t it? The relentless pursuit of excellence, the ceaseless climb towards the peak of achievement. Yet, as I reflect on those years, I realize that amid the hustle and bustle, a significant portion of life slipped by unnoticed. The blinkers were on, and the broader canvas of existence remained unattended to. I loved to play instruments during my student years and indulged in some art and painting as well. But as time flew by, I had lost connection with hobbies and remained confined to regular work.

Now, as I observe the vibrant younger generation, I am heartened to witness a movement away from this narrow vision. The landscape has shifted, and the youth of today seem to grasp the nuances of a well-rounded life more intuitively. There are lessons I’ve learned along the way, and I’d like to share them, especially with those who are navigating the pathway of academia and early careers. The pandemic likely played a significant role in prompting this shift, bringing people closer to reality and instilling a sense of the necessity for a balanced life, contrasting with the prior emphasis solely on academic or career success.

1. Embrace Adaptability and Resilience: The world that today’s young minds inhabit differs vastly from the one we experienced during our formative years. Rapid changes have become the norm, and their adaptability to these shifts is commendable. Challenges are met with resilience, and the ability to stay strong in the face of adversity is a skill that will serve them well. In a society that is constantly evolving, embracing change becomes not just a choice but a necessity.

2. Champion Diversity and Inclusion: As a child, I was fortunate to have grown up in an inclusive environment where gender biases were non-existent. In the initial stages of my career, I encountered a situation where my capabilities were questioned due to embracing motherhood, which was a disconcerting experience. Today’s younger workforce advocates for fairness, equity, and diversity, making inclusion a crucial aspect of the professional landscape.

3. Fuse Resilience with Purpose: The emerging workforce is marked by a refreshing practicality. If a project fails to align with their interests or contribute to their learning journey, they don’t stay on and stagnate. Instead, they pivot with purpose, recognizing that their time and energy are precious resources. This discernment, this ability to navigate their professional trajectory, is a quality that sets them apart and sets them for success/ balanced life.

As I pen down these reflections, I am reminded of the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” It encapsulates the essence of my journey and resonates with the youth today. They are not merely adapting to the world around them; they are actively shaping it, infusing it with their values, and steering it towards a more inclusive future.

In conclusion, dear reader, as you traverse the exciting realms of academia and get on to the rollercoaster ride of your career, remember that life extends beyond the confines of textbooks and boardrooms. Embrace change, celebrate diversity, and navigate your journey with purpose. It is a vast and dynamic world out there, waiting to be explored beyond the boundaries of routine. Many institutes including those offering MBA and post-graduate courses consider knowledge beyond textbooks for their entry-level tests and interviews. Seize the opportunity to upskill, stay abreast of new technologies, and equip yourself with the tools to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. Upskilling, as the youth of today are aware, is needed not just for one’s career but for overall growth.

As the great poet Robert Frost once said, “I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.” Let your path be filled with exploration, resilience, and purpose, creating a narrative that defines the extraordinary.

Mona Bharadwaj

The author is CSR Leader for Academia, IBM India / South Asia