Note: The post below does not deny that at different stages in life we have to pass through tests whose results depend on how well prepared we are. It only points out that there is a healthier way of approaching life and its examinations than being obsessed with winning competitions all one's life.
Remember that the goal is excellence, not "coming first all the time" 😊. There's a difference between the two 😊. Always stay clear on this.
And how do you achieve excellence?
First things first:
1. Ensure a basic level of fitness in the body. Eat nutritious food. Exercise a bit.
2. Keep the mind light and focused. Meditate a bit. Don't allow your mind to get scattered with aimless spending of time, meaningless conversations, too much socializing - either virtually or in real life. Choose your friends wisely and spend quality time with them.
3. Keep yourself in good spirits. Be happy. This is in your control to a greater extent than you might believe.
Then:
Whatever you do, academic or professional or extra curricular, do it the best you can. Give all aspects of life your very best effort (also read the notes at the bottom of this post). Don't be lazy : physically or mentally. Put in an honest effort from your side in all aspects of your life.
When you come across someone better than you: first and foremost, be honest in acknowledging that they are better. Then, without any jealousy, observe carefully, talk to them if possible, talk to others whose knowledge and judgment you trust, and figure out *why* they are better. Then make the effort to improve yourself to their level.
This is an extremely important point to absorb: You are *not* to accept or believe at any point that you are not capable of being as good as someone else.
If someone is better than you today, you can always raise yourself to their level tomorrow with the right effort. The "best" spot need not be occupied by only one person. Every time you raise yourself to someone else's level, you both are equally good at something. Extend this logic a few steps further: Everyone can be excellent!
This much is in your hands. This much is your responsibility. To put your best efforts in whatever you do and to continuously improve yourself. Do this much honestly.
Then: Let the chips fall as they will.
If you are satisfied with the outcome of your efforts, have a little celebration with your friends and family. But don't lose your mind in success. Many people make this mistake. Not only does that look foolish, it stops you from growing further. Stay humble and gentle with others, maintain a calm and steady mind, and once the celebration is over, get back to work 😊! Set your next target, your next goal, and start progressing towards it.
And sometimes you may not be pleased with the results you obtain. Never mind. Stay firm! Stay confident! Ups and downs are a part and parcel of life. Grit your teeth, pull up your socks, tighten your belt, resolve to keep working hard till you achieve your goals.
There is no ceiling in the journey towards excellence. There is always scope for improvement and further progress. Go back to the start of the post and read till here again. Remind yourself of what you need to do to pursue excellence, and get to it 😊. Keep working hard. Keep moving forward. Keep giving it your best. Don't stop. Keep progressing.
That's it. *This* is excellence. *This* is the midas touch.
It's a way of life 😊. It's a habit 😊. Get it 😊?
Remember: As I remarked in a recent post: It's possible to balance academics and extra curricular activities. If you attend classes, take good notes, do your lab work, and study three hours every day, you will be set academically. Do this much and pursue extra curricular activities that interest you. Keep your weekends flexible: Spend the time necessary for your homework / project work / reading / problem solving. Then feel free to do other things.
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