-Dr. Buddhi Malla.
As a group of people wandered, one among them reminisced, “Back in our day, we’d keep our noses into the books.” However, after attentively listening for five minutes, it became apparent that they were unaware of recent developments.
Microsoft’s journey began with the introduction of Windows in 1983, followed by a succession of upgrades: Windows 1.0, 2.0, 386, 286, 3.0, 3.0a, 3.1, 3.11, NT3.5, NT 3.51, 95, 97, 98, 2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and culminating in Windows 11. By consistently updating and evolving, Microsoft has propelled Windows to the pinnacle of success.
Similar to Microsoft’s progression from Windows 1.0 version to Windows 11, we must recognize the importance of continually upgrading ourselves. Many believe that once they finish college, their learning journey is complete. However, akin to a flowing river, education should persistently evolve. Even the most knowledgeable individuals risk falling into ignorance if they cease to learn.
Just as we employ antivirus software to safeguard our computers from viruses, our education serves as intellectual protection. Without periodic upgrades, both antivirus software and education become ineffective, leaving us vulnerable to intellectual decline and eventual ignorance.
Bharadwaj faced significant challenges in his youth, struggling academically in a time when formal schooling was scarce, and seeking education meant studying under a Guru. His poor academic performance led to disdain from his friends and teacher, prompting him to abandon his studies. Aimless and weary, he stumbled upon a revelation in the wilderness: observing how a rope’s repeated contact with a stone well had left an impression, he realized the power of persistence. Inspired by this, he resolved to dedicate himself to learning, returning to his studies with unwavering determination. Today, Bharadwaj is known as a distinguished scholar/sage and prolific author of Hindu religious texts.
His journey underscores the timeless importance of continuous learning, transcending barriers of caste, religion, culture, gender, and time. Despite initial setbacks, Bharadwaj’s transformation from academic weakness to scholarly prominence serves as a testament to the potential for perseverance and intellectual growth. It serves as a reminder that true greatness lies in wisdom, not physical stature and that the pursuit of knowledge should never cease.
In the film “3 Idiots,” Amir Khan famously asserts, “Read to be competent, not just to pass exams.” This profound message resonated strongly with audiences, catapulting the movie to break box office records and the movie has achieved the status of a classic in Bollywood cinema. Just as we maintain daily brushing habits, we should cultivate daily reading habits as well. The analogy drawn between reading and daily brushing habits underscores the importance of consistent learning. Just as we develop the habit of brushing our teeth daily, we must cultivate a daily reading habit to enhance our competence.
While many students excel academically in college, their success often does not translate to professional life. This disparity can be attributed to a mindset focused solely on achieving a degree, rather than on acquiring genuine knowledge and skills.
Investing in learning emerges as the most secure investment one can make. Successful individuals around the world prioritize continuous learning and self-improvement. By establishing a routine of reading each morning, akin to our daily brushing ritual, we can emulate their success. Regular reading not only boosts confidence but also enhances job performance, paving the way for professional success.
Throwing eggs to the ground results in their splattering and becoming unusable, while onions, even when damaged, retain some undamaged layers. This contrast illustrates the depth of knowledge acquired through regular study, akin to the layers of an onion. Individuals with a robust foundation of knowledge can confidently navigate challenges and problem-solving scenarios, unlike those with superficial understanding who may easily falter.
Similarly, just as a car requires periodic servicing to maintain its functionality, the education degrees obtained from schools and universities have a limited shelf life. Without continuous learning and knowledge acquisition, these degrees lose their value over time.
Like how we wear new clothes, wash them, and occasionally replace them to maintain our appearance, acquiring new knowledge and skills is essential for personal growth. While many focus on external appearances, true personality development stems from the accumulation of knowledge and skills. While external attributes may contribute to success, the significance of inner qualities cannot be overstated in achieving lasting success.
Establishing daily reading habits is more beneficial than reading solely for exams, promotions, or immediate needs. Reading for such purposes can be related to temporary remedies like medicine or supplements, which provide short-term relief but lack lasting benefits. Conversely, regular reading is comparable to maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring sustained intellectual nourishment.
Similar to how humans require daily calorie intake for sustained health, consistent reading habits are essential for ongoing intellectual growth. Attempting to consume a week’s worth of calories in a single day does not promote well-being, just as irregular reading fails to nurture the mind adequately.
Like a hydroelectric project generates electricity daily, continuous reading ensures a steady flow of knowledge. Ceasing to read suddenly leaves one in darkness, symbolically representing a descent into ignorance. Therefore, we must prioritize continuous self-improvement, treating our minds like antivirus software that requires regular updates. Let us commit to investing in knowledge, embracing the practice of learning every morning. After all, investment in knowledge stands as the best and safest investment one can make in this world.
-Author Dr. Malla is a Banker.
