“Greatness is not a function of circumstance.

Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice”

                                          —Jim Collins, Good to Great

“It is a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness”

                                          —  Seneca

When I was in class 12^th, our Physics teacher was like a scientist. So we named him Mr. Scientist.  Every student loved him from heart. He was always got first rank and gold medallist in his entire education career. Because of his high level of concept delivery method, we could not understand his teachings properly.

I had an impression that, though we didn’t understand and couldn’t follow his teachings properly, his son must be as like him and definitely a great student.

One day I came to know that his son failed in 12^th science exam last year.

I was shocked. How come son of Mr. Scientist could fail in 12^th examination?

That question was stuck in my mind for long time. I started observing successful, intelligent people and compare their children with them as and when I get a chance to do so.

I started looking to know about the children of great scientist like Sir Einstein, Thomas Alva Edison and many more. Their children may be in good position in their lives but still not as famous or successful as their father or mother.

I concluded one thing after so many years of observation that:

Success is not always related to heredity.

Definition of Success is different from person to person. Success for one person may be to get a Job, for another person may be a great family. Some others may be to have own company, for some may be millionaire or billionaire. So everyone has his/her own success definition and success story.

But here I am talking about success in simple term, a reputed position in a society, to understand the topic easily.

After my conclusion that Success is not always related to heredity, I started searching for what is the reason why a scientist’s children do not always become scientist. Likewise a Doctor’s children do not always become doctor; IAS’s children do not always an IAS, a great business man’s children do not always a great businessman.

Even the reverse is also possible. We have seen many good news about becoming IAS officers and doctors and Engineers, and successful business person whose parents have nothing. Even their parents may not even seen school in their life time. They are self-made successful men or women.

I researched; I read so many books on success, attitude and topics related to success.

Finally I concluded one thing:

Success is all depends on Your Intension and Dedication.

Intension is your primary source of all your achievements in life. All universal forces will work and support you towards your intension. Intension is your spirit, your emotions, your feelings, your beliefs. This works from inside out, not from outside in.

Dedication is your commitment to achieve your intension. Commitment means you are committed to achieve whatever is your desire without any excuses. If you have excuses, ready with you, then you are not committed. You are just interested.

Alan Brown first coach of John Assaraf asked this question to him, “Are you committed or interested in achieving a goal”.

If these two forces intension and dedication work together in harmony no one can stops you from achieving anything in your life.

This is the reason a scientist’s son/daughter doesn’t always become a scientist. Same is applicable for all other scenarios too.

Parents became successful because of their own intension and dedication. Children have their own intension and dedication.  So success level of parents and children can’t always be of same level and not depends on heredity.

This video is for you. Click Here.

Thank You.

Pranab Hazarika

When I had my first kiss I felt like I had been shot through the heart with a bolt of energy.

You can forget your wife’s birthday or even your marriage day, but I am sure you still remember your first kiss. I am not talking about the date of your first kiss. I am talking about the felling of your first kiss.

You are smiling from inside now. Though you can’t express your feelings now in front of anybody else, but you are feeling ecstatic remembering your first kiss.

Yes, you can take a pause in reading and remember your first kiss with full of feelings.

Nothing to worry about your wife or husband. They can’t enter your brain to see about whom you are actually thinking. They won’t know that it was not him or she.

It was totally a different world and different person. But for you that HE or SHE may be your current spouse too.

So person to person feelings may vary, but everyone remembers his/her first kiss.

Now come to the main point. Why we can remember our first kiss, that day or person or situation easily.

This all related to your brain and hormones released by your brain. One hormone is called Dopamine. It is also named as “Happy Hormone”

So when you kissed for the first time Dopamine released in your brain for the first time for that sensation or feelings or happiness. So our whole body, mind experience that happiness for the first time. First time of anything good makes us happy. So this is true for all other good experiences too. You can remember easily all first day things which make you happy.

After that gradually that happy feeling start getting diluting as our mind and body both senses that releasing of happy hormones often and become used to it.

Game of our mind:

This is the game of our mind and emotions.

Brain is the organ of this mind and the cerebro-spinal system of nerves puts us in conscious communication with every part of the body. This system of nerves responses to every sensation of light, heat, odor, sound and taste.

So Dopamine, the happy hormone is one of the main reasons of our happy mode and remembering good memories easily.

Youtube video link is for you here.

Thank you for reading.

Pranab Hazarika

BE | MBA | PMP | IoT Certified (IIT Kharagpur)

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It’s not about which channel is telling the truth.
It’s about which version of the truth you’re willing to hear.

Introduction

In the world of constant information flow, our choices in media consumption are more than mere preferences; they reflect our innermost beliefs and ideals. The news channels we tune into, the articles we read, and even the social media feeds we scroll through all echo our voices reverberating to us. This phenomenon isn’t just about being comfortable; it’s about affirming our sense of self and our place in the world.

The Unconscious Choice

When we select a news channel, it’s rarely a random choice. It’s an unconscious alignment with our principles, a nod to our existing opinions. The question, then, is not about the factual accuracy of the news but about aligning the channel’s narrative with our own. This holds for the books we read, the influencers we follow, and even our family conversations.

The Family Mirror

Our family’s preferences can often be a mirror of our own. If there’s a consensus on a particular news source, it might indicate a shared worldview or political leaning. Conversely, diversity in preferences might reflect the spectrum of opinions and discussions at the dinner table. This isn’t just limited to news — it extends to entertainment, sports, and even the brands we buy.

It’s not about which channel is telling the truth.
It’s about which version of the truth you’re willing to hear.

The Echo Chamber Effect

The echo chamber effect is a natural inclination to engage with media that reinforces our existing beliefs. This preference extends beyond news channels—it encompasses the systems we support, the products we buy, and even the communities we are part of. Having our views validated and unsettlingly challenged is comforting.

The Challenge of Diverse Opinions

Embracing diverse opinions is challenging. It requires stepping out of our comfort zone and confronting the possibility that our ‘version of the truth’ is not the only one. It’s about the willingness to listen to other perspectives, even if they don’t support our pre-existing beliefs.

Conclusion

Our preferences shape our realities, creating a unique world yet often isolated from differing perspectives. Understanding this can be the first step toward broadening our horizons and appreciating varied viewpoints. It’s not about abandoning our preferences but being open to the world’s thoughts. After all, it’s in the diversity of opinions that the true colors of humanity shine brightest.

Discover how a disciplined approach shapes our Health, boosts our Wealth, and defines our Success.

In a world full of distractions and quick rewards, discipline is a powerful trait that turns dreams into results. We’ll examine the role of discipline in three crucial areas of our lives:

1. Health,
2. Wealth
3. Success

Holding on to discipline can mean the difference between short-lived wishes and long-lasting accomplishments.

The Pillars of Health: Nutrition, Exercise, Rest

Discipline helps maintain a healthy balance of eating right, exercising, and getting enough rest. It’s like a silent vow to yourself to eat well, stay active, and sleep enough.

Good nutrition is crucial to your energy and Health. Eating a diet full of whole foods and essential nutrients takes discipline; choose fresh options over processed foods.

Regular exercise builds and maintains your physical strength. Staying disciplined in your exercise routine, like going for morning runs or following a workout schedule, is crucial for long-term Health.

Rest is just as important but often overlooked. Discipline in rest means getting enough sleep and understanding when to take breaks, which lets your body heal and recharge.

Wealth Management: Spending, Investing, and Income

Financial Health: Just like staying healthy requires discipline, managing money well does, too. It means making a budget carefully and sticking to it firmly. Being frugal isn’t about not allowing yourself to have things; it’s about spending money on what truly matters to you.

Growing your money steadily requires a disciplined approach when it comes to investing. It would help if you didn’t react hastily to market ups and downs but instead rely on careful research, patience, and sticking to your plan even when things get shaky.

To achieve financial independence, you must be disciplined in creating different money-making methods. This involves tirelessly looking for new chances and turning your ideas into profitable businesses.

Pursuit of Success: Progress and Advancement

Success in any area comes from being disciplined. It’s about improving daily, working hard at what you do, and continuously improving yourself and your work.

Staying dedicated to improving isn’t just a one-time push; it’s a steady effort. It means making small goals, being happy with little wins, and always trying to do better than before.

Discipline and consistency are the keys to Success.

The Liberation in Discipline

Jocko Willink’s idea is that being disciplined sets you free. It’s not about having no rules, but being in charge of yourself. Discipline means making choices that match what’s important to you and what you want to achieve. It’s about managing your immediate desires to make your future better.

In Health, it is freedom from illness and the vigor to pursue life’s adventures. In finances, it is the liberation from debt and the power to shape one’s destiny. In personal endeavors, independence from mediocrity is the platform to reach new heights of Success.

In summary, discipline is the quiet power that drives people to their highest point. It shapes our possible achievements and confidence into real Success. Hold onto discipline because it’s the secret to true Freedom.

You can read books of Jocko Willink:

Discipline Equals Freedom

Leadership Strategy and Tactics

In life’s journey, a vital key can unlock doors to success, build unwavering confidence, shield us from disasters, and help us stay in control when chaos strikes. That key is consistency. It is not just a routine; it’s a way of life, a powerful tool that can transform you into a confident, resilient individual ready to face any challenge.

Consistency: Your Secret Weapon

We often hear about the importance of consistency, but what does it mean, and how can it be our secret weapon? Consistency is not just about doing the same thing over and over. It’s about committing to a path and staying true to it, regardless of obstacles. It’s the unwavering belief that every action you take and every step you take contributes to your growth and success.

Building Confidence

Consistency is like the master architect of your confidence. You start to see progress when you consistently work towards your goals, whether in your career, relationships, or personal development. Small achievements accumulate over time, and each adds a brick to the foundation of your self-confidence. With each accomplishment, you become more assured of your abilities.

Imagine waking up daily with the conviction that your actions matter and that your efforts will lead to success. That is the gift of consistency. By repeatedly setting and achieving goals, you reinforce the belief that you are capable of greatness. In turn, this newfound self-assurance radiates to those around you, inspiring them as well.

You may read here How to Make Lasting Confidence.

Avoiding Disasters

Consistency serves as a shield, protecting you from the unexpected troubles that life may throw your way. You create a safety net when you consistently plan, prepare, and take action. Just as a well-maintained shield can deflect incoming threats, your consistent efforts can deflect potential disasters.

Consider this scenario: You’ve consistently saved a portion of your income. When an unexpected medical expense arises, you have the financial cushion to cover it. Your consistent efforts to maintain good health and well-being can prevent inevitable health crises. Consistency allows you to be proactive rather than reactive, ensuring you are well-prepared for life’s uncertainties.

Staying in Control During Chaos

Life is unpredictable, and storms may come your way. It could be a sudden job loss, a family emergency, or a personal setback. During these chaotic times, consistency becomes your anchor. It provides stability when everything else feels turbulent.

When you have consistent daily routines and habits, you maintain control over your life, even amid chaos. Your routines serve as a lifeline that keeps you grounded and focused. They remind you of your goals and provide comfort in adversity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, consistency is not just a word; it’s a way of life. It is the key to

-building confidence,

-avoiding disasters, and

–staying in control during the chaos.

With consistency, you unlock your true potential and become the master of your destiny.

So, whether you are an engineer like me, a content creator, a reader, or pursuing any other path in life, remember that consistency is the thread that weaves your success story. It is your secret weapon, your shield, and your anchor. Embrace it, and watch it transform your life in ways you never thought possible.

You can further read the book Great By Choice by Jim Collins.

In today’s fast-paced world, confidence is the key that unlocks the doors to success. It’s not just about feeling good about oneself; it’s about taking action and achieving one’s goals. This article will explore the profound connection between confidence, action, and achievement and how to harness this power to transform your life.

The Root of True Confidence

True confidence isn’t merely a surface-level attribute that can be faked. It’s deeply rooted in one’s self-belief and the knowledge that you can conquer challenges. It’s about recognizing your worth and capabilities. When you believe in yourself, you’re likelier to take action and pursue your dreams with unwavering determination.

Taking the First Step

Confidence begins with that critical first step, often the most challenging. When you take that step, you say, “I can do this.” It’s a declaration of your belief in yourself. Whether starting a new business, embarking on a fitness journey, or publishing a book, that initial step is where true confidence takes root.

Overcoming Fear and Doubt

Fear and self-doubt are common obstacles that hinder confidence. They are like roadblocks on the path to success. However, confidence empowers you to confront these fears head-on. Instead of retreating, you face them with the conviction that you can overcome adversity. By doing so, you not only build confidence but also resilience.

The Power of Achievement

Confidence is a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you believe in your abilities, you are more likely to take action; when you do, you are more likely to achieve your goals. It’s a positive feedback loop that propels you toward greater heights of success.

Achievement, whether big or small, reinforces your confidence. Each success becomes a building block for your self-assurance. It’s a testament to your capabilities and a reminder that you can accomplish even more. This is where the magic happens – in the cycle of confidence and achievement.

The Role of Self-Help and Personal Development

As someone deeply interested in self-help, you understand the significance of continuous personal development. Reading non-fiction and self-help books can provide valuable insights into building confidence, conquering fears, and taking action. These books are like roadmaps that guide you on your journey to unlocking true confidence.

You can read here about doe’s self-help books really works or not.

Harnessing Brain Power and Productivity

Your pursuit of knowledge about the human brain and productivity is a testament to your commitment to self-improvement. You understand how your brain works, and optimizing your productivity can significantly boost your confidence. When you know how to make the most of your mental faculties, you become more efficient in taking action and achieving your goals.

The Path to Happiness and Peace of Mind

Confidence isn’t just about professional success but also personal fulfillment. When you’re confident, you tend to be happier and experience greater peace of mind. You approach life’s challenges positively, knowing you can overcome them.

Success in Life

Success is a multifaceted concept that means different things to different people. Whether your definition of success includes financial freedom, personal accomplishments, or social recognition, confidence is the common denominator. It’s the driving force behind your journey to success.

In Conclusion

Unlocking true confidence is the foundation of your journey to success and personal fulfillment. It’s the catalyst for action, achievement, and a life well-lived. By believing in yourself, confronting fears, and leveraging your knowledge, you’re well on your way to making your goals a reality.

Remember, confidence is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey. Embrace it, nurture it, and watch as it propels you toward the heights of success you’ve always envisioned.

For further reading: Great by Choice by Jim Collins

Introduction

When starting a new journey, the question often arises: “Do we truly require a mentor?” As someone who has experienced the transformative impact of having a mentor, I can confidently say that the answer is a resounding “yes.” This article explores why seeking a mentor is essential for personal growth.

The Solo Workout

My fitness journey serves as a vivid example of the power of mentorship. I dedicated myself to gym workouts for over a year with no trainer or coach. I relied solely on YouTube videos to learn the techniques and routines. Initially, it seemed like I was making progress, but my body wasn’t genuinely transforming as I had hoped.

The Turning Point

After more than a year of solitary workouts, I bought an official gym trainer. This trainer soon became a good friend of mine. The impact was astonishing. It took me another year to see the proper transformation. Suddenly, my body began to take shape, and compliments started pouring in at the gym and my workplace. It made me question why my previous efforts hadn’t yielded the desired results.

The Mentor’s Magic

The answer was clear: having a mentor, in this case, a gym trainer, was the missing piece of the puzzle. While I knew the exercises and their correct forms, the subtle nuances and immediate feedback from a mentor were game-changers. When performing a deadlift, I thought I had the perfect posture, but my mentor-friend would say,

“Pranab, keep your back straight.”

“Pranab, hold your breath.”

“Pranab, hold tight to your core.”

These simple corrections made all the difference.

The Mentor’s Role

A mentor is someone who guides, teaches, and provides invaluable feedback. They ensure you’re on the right track, make necessary corrections, and help you achieve your full potential. The mentor is the one who shares their experience, expertise, and wisdom, setting you on a path to success.

The Coach’s Influence

A coach, on the other hand, is not just an instructor but a motivator. They roll their sleeves and work alongside you, pushing you to surpass your limits. A coach is like a personal cheerleader, always encouraging you to give your best.

The Friend’s Support

In addition to mentors and coaches, having supportive friends is crucial. Friends stand by your side and provide unwavering encouragement. They’re the ones who say,

“Come on, Pranab, you’ve got this.”

Now….

Imagine life as a dense jungle with no clear path. Beyond the jungle lies success, happiness, and fulfillment. Trying to navigate the jungle alone could take weeks, even months, to reach the other side. On the contrary, with a mentor, it’s like having someone who has crossed that jungle multiple times. They guide you through it, show you the way, and help you reach your destination in a fraction of the time.

Why Should We Seek a Mentor

Seeking a mentor is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of wisdom. Here’s why you should consider having a mentor:

1. Accelerated Learning

A mentor’s knowledge and experience accelerate your learning process. They’ve been through the challenges and can help you avoid common pitfalls.

2. Personalized Guidance

Mentors provide tailored advice based on your individual needs and goals. They understand your strengths and weaknesses and craft a strategy to suit you.

They will help you make it a habit.

3. Motivation and Accountability

Mentors and coaches keep you motivated and accountable. They won’t let you give up easily, pushing you to persist and achieve your objectives.

4. Networking Opportunities

Mentors often introduce you to valuable connections and opportunities in your field, expanding your network.

5. Confidence-Boost

Having someone in your corner who believes in you can significantly boost your self-confidence.

Selection of a Mentor/Coach:

Selecting a mentor or coach is a crucial decision, and it should be made with care. As Indian film actor Amir Khan wisely put it,

“I start by closely observing and thoroughly evaluating the director. Once I establish trust, I wholeheartedly commit to their guidance and faithfully follow their instructions.”

So choose your mentor wisely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power of having a mentor cannot be overstated. Whether in your fitness journey, career, or any other aspect of life, a mentor can be the guiding star that propels you to success. Their knowledge, experience, and unwavering support make your journey smoother and more fulfilling.

So, when pondering whether you genuinely require a mentor, remember the choice between a 1-month solo journey through the dense jungle or a one-day guided expedition led by a knowledgeable mentor. The answer becomes apparent: the mentor is the compass that points you in the right direction, ensuring you reach your destination efficiently and with flying colors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I can’t find a suitable mentor?

Finding a mentor can be challenging, but don’t give up. Look for mentors in your network, industry events, or online communities. You can also consider virtual mentors through books, podcasts, and online courses.

2. Can I have multiple mentors for different aspects of my life?

   Absolutely. You can have mentors for various areas, such as career, personal development, and hobbies. Diverse mentorship can provide a well-rounded growth experience.

3. Is mentorship only for beginners?

No, mentorship is valuable at all stages of life. Experienced individuals can benefit from a mentor’s perspective, especially when facing new challenges or transitions.

4. Can a mentor be a friend or family member?

Yes, mentors can come from various backgrounds. A friend or family member with expertise in your area of interest can serve as a mentor and provide valuable guidance.

We often view ourselves from different angles, leading to a threefold perspective of our existence. These three dimensions of self include:

1. Self Identity
2. Public Image
3. Hidden Aspects

1. The Person I Am — Self-Identity

The Core Essence

Our self-identity is the foundation of who we are. It’s the accumulation of our experiences, beliefs, values, and aspirations. Understanding our essence is the first step toward self-discovery.

• Exploring the concept of self-identity

Self-identity is a multifaceted concept. It encompasses our perception of our personality, values, and beliefs. Recognizing that self-identity is not static; it evolves is crucial.

• How our values, beliefs, and experiences shape our self-image

Our upbringing, cultural background, and life experiences shape our self-identity. We carry these influences with us, often unconsciously.

• The journey of self-discovery

The path to self-discovery involves introspection, self-reflection, and a willingness to confront our fears and insecurities. It’s a journey of continuous learning and growth.

Ask the best question to yourself. Questions are the answer.

The Impact of Self-Identity

Understanding the impact of self-identity on our lives is crucial. It affects the choices we make, the relationships we form, and the goals we pursue.

• How our self-identity influences our choices

Our self-identity guides our decisions. It determines the careers we choose, the people we befriend, and the values we uphold.

• Embracing our uniqueness

Each of us is unique, and our self-identity celebrates that individuality. Embracing our uniqueness leads to a more prosperous and fulfilling life.

• The role of self-compassion in personal growth

Self-compassion is the key to self-acceptance and personal growth. It allows us to learn from our mistakes and setbacks.

2. What People Think About Us — Public Image

The External Mirror

The perceptions and opinions of others can significantly influence our self-image. Understanding the dynamics of external judgment is essential.

• The importance of external perceptions

How others see us can affect our self-esteem and self-worth. It’s crucial to be aware of these external influences.

• How others’ opinions can affect us

Negative judgments can be hurtful and impact our self-esteem. We need to develop resilience and self-confidence to withstand external pressures.

Authenticity vs. Approval

Balancing our authentic selves with the desire for approval is a common challenge. Finding balance is a vital aspect of self-acceptance.

• Balancing our true selves with societal expectations

Society often has specific expectations of how we should behave and present ourselves. Striking a balance between authenticity and societal norms can be challenging.

• Building self-confidence and self-esteem

Self-confidence and self-esteem are the foundations of a strong sense of identity. Developing these qualities empowers us to be authentic.

• The art of being authentic in a judgmental world

Being authentic in a judgmental world is an art. It requires courage, self-awareness, and resilience. It’s a journey worth embarking on.

3. Our Shame Personality Part — Hidden Aspects

Unearthing Shame

Shame is a powerful emotion that often remains hidden within us. Understanding and addressing shame is essential for personal growth.

• Defining shame and its impact on self-perception

Shame is a deep sense of unworthiness and inadequacy. It can profoundly impact how we view ourselves and interact with the world.

• The power of vulnerability in addressing shame

Vulnerability is the antidote to shame. When we open up about our insecurities, we take the first step toward healing.

• The Shadow Self

The shadow self represents the unacknowledged aspects of our personality. Exploring and integrating these hidden parts is essential for self-acceptance.

• Exploring the hidden, unacknowledged parts of ourselves

We all have hidden aspects within us, often formed in childhood. These can shape our behavior and choices in ways we may not fully understand.

• The influence of the shadow self on behavior

The shadow self can lead to self-sabotage and destructive patterns. By recognizing and integrating these aspects, we can live more authentically.

• Strategies for embracing and integrating these hidden aspects

Integrating our shadow self requires self-compassion, self-awareness, and a willingness to confront our inner demons. It’s a transformative journey.

In conclusion, understanding these three dimensions of self—self-identity, public image, and hidden aspects—is crucial for personal growth and self-acceptance. We can lead more authentic and fulfilling lives by going into the core of who we are, managing external judgments, and addressing hidden shame.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1: How can I improve my self-identity?

Improving self-identity involves self-reflection, self-acceptance, and continuous personal growth. It’s about understanding your values, beliefs, and uniqueness.

FAQ 2: What if external judgments severely impact my self-esteem?

Building resilience and self-confidence is essential. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist to help you navigate external pressures.

FAQ 3: How do I address hidden shame?

Addressing hidden shame begins with vulnerability and self-compassion. Talk to someone you trust or seek professional help to relieve deep-seated shame.

I will recommend a great book to read: 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think By Brianna Wiest