Championing Focus and Determination
The answer to bigger questions of life often lies in the small things. For instance, in order to fulfill our vision of next five years or ten years, we have to determine the first small step that we can take in that direction today. While the vision may be wide, the focus has to be narrow. It is paradoxical, indeed, and yet the only way. Determining what we have to do, and then focussing all our energies on the task at hand, is the most effective route to all accomplishments whether big or small.
We live in a highly distracted world today. There is just too much information bombarding us from all directions. Our smartphones and laptops, for sure, have made our lives easier, but they have also become a source of convenient distractions. It is a common sight today to see children glued to their screens for the major portion of a day. India is the same land where, in olden times, the Gurukul system of education existed. Students led a disciplined life, away from the distractions of the outer world. The focus and strength that they cultivated in Gurukul stayed with them for the rest of their lives, aiding them in navigating the challenges of adult life quite effectively.
It is not possible to replicate that model today. Through conscious efforts, however, it is possible to live in a more focussed and determined manner. We may not be able to control what the world outside is producing, but we sure, can control what we choose to consume. Students are under the influence of a lot more things today than any of their previous generations. As teachers and their wards, let us guide them to exercise more self-control and self-discipline. Let us expose them to the beauty of being present in the moment and power of gratitude.
Dear students, my message to all of you will be to ‘go within’. The world outside is quite shiny and appealing, but right now, your task is to build a solid foundation within. You may already be grappling with the idea of what ‘to be’ or ‘not to be’ in the future. Regardless of what you have decided, know that each of you has unlimited potential. Do not be afraid to dream big. In fact, you must! But to translate your dreams into reality, you need to champion focus and determination. Do not be swayed by empty distractions and instant gratifications. Time is a precious resource and more precious than time, is your own energy and thoughts.
Dreams, thoughts, ideas – all these are abstract in nature. You cannot touch them and yet, they are the seeds for all that is out there. Spend every day in a planned manner with sharp focus. Keep your sights fixed on your future goals. Certainly, there will be times when you will fall down. Remember nothing great was ever achieved without encountering failures. In those moments, all you need to do is just make a fresh determination. If you hold on to determination and focus as your primary tools, rest assured, you will create a marvel of a life!
Let us all make a fresh determination in our own lives and spend our time and energy in a focussed manner. In a distracted world, let us find our joy in discipline, routine and conscious choices.
Om Shanti!
Punam Suri
President
DAV College Managing Committee
and Arya Pradeshik Pratinidhi Sabha