The Secret of Being Happy

The Secret of Being Happy

As a #mentor, I always guide my mentees to do things with a #positive #attitude and better understanding so that they can reap maximum satisfaction. But it isn't easy to be positive.

Siddharth is a good student. He enjoys coming to campus and upgrading his skills. Unfortunately, he built his friendship with a naturally gross student, filled with negativity and hates managing time.

These qualities have affected Siddharth, and instead of changing his friend, he started practicing all the bad qualities. His attendance dwindled, got addicted to bad habits, and certainly, these impacted even his personal life.

As a mentor, I can't blindfold and stop ignoring things. I was closely observing the changes in Siddharth and often tried to point out his errors. But he had a cold shoulder and disliked my interference.

I called Siddharth to my workstation one fine day and started a healthy #conversation about his friends, family and himself. While discussing his studies, he started to escape and made excuses that he wasn't feeling well and would like to see me later.

Truth is always bitter. I wanted him to wait for a while, confess that he was on the wrong path and will try his best to reprimand his mistakes.

Every time, I record the first interaction of my mentees so that I can show them the change that has come in their overall personality - physically and mentally.

I played the same video before Siddharth when he was adamant about leaving. Initially, he watched his video with dejection, but I could see the tears rolling in his eyes after a minute. I knew I could change him.

Siddharth recalled his promise. He wanted to help his financially weak parents. He wanted to shoulder the responsibilities such as educating his young siblings and working hard to earn better #remuneration to fulfill the dreams of self and family.

Ashamed of his behavior, Siddharth admitted that he is unhappy with his own behavior. He wishes to change and bring back the same positivity with which he had joined higher education. A sense of realization sparkled in his eyes. He left my place.

I was very sure that Siddharth would change. After eight months, he visited my office with a broad smile and a sense of pride. He said, “I am placed with a reputed organization on a decent pay package." A copy of his offer letter was in his hands.

I saw the truly happy face of Siddharth. He made me realize that the secret of happiness lies in hardship, #self-realization and #self-improvement.

People may derail from their goals, but a true mentor can always put you on the right track.

Happy mentoring!

Neeru Kumari