being prepared with a whole new mind

This new world is moving at a furious pace. Borders have disappeared physically, and communications have broadened mental spaces. The significant strides made forward in every field of learning have paved the way for stiff competition. And we are returning to the era of the survival of the best? This new world is big and beautiful only for those who have the depth of knowledge, the skills for the New Age, positive Attitudes and healthy Habits. One of my students recently sought my guidance to use his waiting time, which got me thinking. It will be a good four months before our students get back to their universities. While they eagerly wait for their Universities to welcome them to their campuses, the virtual learning may have created a few gaps not just in academics but socio-emotional development as well. Hence, the period of wait can used constructively to prepare oneself to unlearn, learn and re-learn.

To me, Preparation is the process of getting ready for an occasion. Preparations help managing ourselves better, by equipping ourselves with the right skills. It removes anxieties, fears, uncertainties. It builds confidence preparing to face any challenge. Parents are also confident that their ward will be able handle life.

Students set their goals and start working towards it without much thought into it. They did what was expected of them. Having the correct academic scores have help them attain their goal. The goal for, e.g. admission for a particular course in a specific University. Now, that the admissions are done, it is imperative for students to think deeper and list their new goals. This requires mental preparedness. 

Looking within helps to declutter the clutter in the mind. What do you really want to ? What is the real purpose? How to execute our beliefs and vision In a sustained manner? Goal setting is important component that is dynamic not static. Rework on it.

When you embark on this new journey, there will be moments of joy and disappointments, hope and fear, laughter and tears. You will, in due course, accept them and sigh – This is Life. When you consciously practice to prepare, you can proudly say – “I chose this path”. Here are a few things that you can do now

• Reflect – Understand yourself better. Identify your strengths and turn your weaknesses into strengths. 
• Acquire – Learn a new language, especially if you are going to a non-English speaking country. Master the art of communication. Read a lot of India’s culture and tradition. Learn about other cultures ,art and artefacts. Learn to manage your finances wisely.
• Connect –Communicate and connect with your professors and co-students. This strengthens bonds and will keep you away from homesickness. You can volunteer to teach in a nearby village. It will give you satisfaction and will add more meaning to your life.
• Know – Higher education is beyond Board marks. Knowledge of the subject chosen is important. A wide range of subjects, greater depth in each will help in research and interdisciplinary work in the University.

For students stepping out of their homes, be prepared for life away from home. Home remedies, first-aid, basic sewing and culinary skills are to be honed. Practice walking and cycling. You will miss a lot of the entitlement that you had steered along. And choose your friends while maintaining a cordial relationship with classmates. Understand the culture of the land, the place and the University. Do not try to be “the most popular person or the coolest guy on the campus” You will receive recognition. But, the pride and ownership of achievement which you get out of one’s own effort is unbelievable.