Values, Mindset and Society...

 

Values, Mindset and Society.....

When your values are clear, it becomes easier to make decisions in life. It is also said that your mindset determines your reality. Today, we are all confused between tradition and Western culture. We are unsure about what we truly want from life: name and fame, or simply moving forward with the flow of life. We are confused about whether we should give our children complete freedom or become overprotective parents. Sometimes, people are also unsure whether they should focus on learning and gaining experience in their jobs or concentrate on earning money as quickly as possible. We are confused about what our married life should look like. Should we be committed, live in a relationship first and commit only when we feel ready, or make quick decisions, go with the flow and regret them within a short time, sometimes leading to divorce? We are also confused about whether we want our children to receive a good education and become self-sufficient or simply demonstrate that our children study in the best schools and colleges in the world. Our society, especially in India, which has traditionally been rooted in cultural values, faith and spirituality, seems to have lost its direction and purpose in this fast-paced world. We need to rediscover the true essence of a society that was enriched through the hard work, wisdom and values of our ancestors.

Hundreds of years ago, Lord Krishna established a society in Dwarka where every individual valued the potential of others. The high values and kindness embedded in the people created a secure environment and encouraged a positive mindset. During those times, society was built on strong values of living, and people supported one another in their daily lives. Whether they had to earn a livelihood or protect themselves from their enemies, Lord Krishna taught them the importance of unity. We all know the story of how, when Lord Indra became angry and heavy rainfall threatened the people, Lord Krishna united everyone and helped them take shelter under Govardhan Parvat. Even today, we celebrate Govardhan Puja and observe festivals that remind us of these timeless lessons.

During Diwali, we light up our homes, and these days, we see entire streets illuminated with festive lights. People get into a festive mood and celebrate rituals that have been followed for generations. We worship Goddess Lakshmi, perform Chopda Pujan in our offices, meet and greet people during the New Year, perform Govardhan Puja in temples, organise Annakut, distribute food among those in need and celebrate Bhai Dooj as a symbol of the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters. Families come together to nurture relationships and uphold family values. But do we practise these values only during the festive season or throughout the year? If these values are so important to us, why are we fighting over property and ancestral wealth? Why are relationships breaking apart? Why are we losing our mental and physical health? Why are we giving up on life so easily? Where has our faith in God disappeared?

The rapid advancement of technology, excessive use of social media and scientific revolutions have brought the world closer, but have also distanced us from our own cultural values and positive mindset. In our efforts to influence nature, we have forgotten how our actions are affecting it. We have learned to destroy trees that help us breathe fresh air, indirectly harming the environment and our own well-being. The increasing consumption of non-vegetarian food also raises questions about the natural balance and the way we treat animals and birds. Our choices are gradually changing the relationship we have shared with nature and our family traditions over generations. With patience becoming increasingly difficult to practise, we seek quick relief through medicines and tend to give up easily when faced with difficulties. Our mindset has shifted from accepting challenges and finding solutions to giving up when we cannot face them.

Today, children may appear more developed in many ways than earlier generations, but their lives are increasingly dependent on medicines and technological support. The human brain is beautifully designed and capable of thinking, learning and exploring endless possibilities. However, our ability to think independently is gradually being replaced by smartphones and technological gadgets. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly influencing how human communities function. Earlier, communities were more self-sufficient, whereas today, many aspects of our lives are machine-driven, leaving little room to reflect on human values. Karma in life strengthens our Dharma, but when even our actions become machine-driven, how will we maintain our connection with faith and spirituality? Sometimes, we believe that God created us and will guide us in the best possible way. Yet, when we look at the world around us, we often think, "I am not influential, I do not have enough money, and I do not have the right connections. How will my work get done?" The constant need for security in every aspect of life has created a mindset of fear and insecurity. We have started believing that without influence, money or powerful connections, nothing can be achieved. Such thoughts gradually weaken our confidence and faith.

On the other hand, science and personal development principles often emphasise five important "P's" that can help us become successful in life. The first is "Be Positive." No great monument has ever been built by people who approach life with constant negativity. So, decide what kind of mindset you want to nurture. The second is "Be Present." You need to be truly present in this world by listening with your ears, observing with your eyes, giving undivided attention to whatever you do and, most importantly, being fully involved with your heart. Allowing distractions to influence and disturb your life is a choice, and every choice comes with consequences. Your existence in the present moment is far more important than dwelling on your past or constantly overthinking about your future.

The third principle is "Be Prompt." We often follow the formula of eight hours of work, eight hours of sleep and eight hours for ourselves and our families. Similarly, to keep pace with today's technology-driven world, we can follow the 7-7-7 rule. Respond to emails or requests for help within seven seconds if possible. If you are busy or occupied, try to respond within seven minutes, and if you are genuinely engaged in other important matters, take a maximum of seven hours to reply, rather than delaying unnecessarily. However, sometimes we take our own time to respond, and our promptness also depends on whom we are responding to. Maintaining values and a clear mindset in society requires discipline in every aspect of life. Unfortunately, we often break rules and make exceptions according to our own convenience.

The fourth principle is "Be Passionate." Having a passion in life fills you with enthusiasm at every stage, whether you are learning to walk, learning to communicate or achieving success in your professional journey. The word enthusiasm is derived from the Greek word entheos, meaning "God within". It does not matter which religion you belong to or what cultural values you follow; the belief in the God within you should reflect in your actions and the world around you. This inner enthusiasm is what differentiates you as an individual. The last principle is "Be Productive." Focus on what you have as an individual rather than constantly comparing yourself with what others possess. Concentrate on what you believe is right and what you can contribute, whether it is maintaining strong personal values, nurturing a positive mindset or helping build a strong and beautiful society. Everything is in our hands. Faith in God, respect for our values and a positive mindset can together create magic in society. I truly believe that...