In the present-day world, every human being is under stress. Poor, rich, male, female, student, employer – everyone is under stress. Guru Nanak Dev Ji said, “Nanak Dukhia sab sansar” – everyone in the world is unhappy. What is the solution to these problems? Guru Nanak Dev Ji teaches us in Gurbani, “Man jeete jug jeet” – one who conquers their mind, conquers the world. Sikhism emphasizes the importance of living a positive and purposeful life and offers valuable insights into overcoming negative emotions and achieving success.
Overcoming Laziness and Pursuing Ambition
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s words, “Shubh Karman ton kabhi na taron” – never avoid doing anything good, do immediate without postponing the action, inspire us to be proactive and take initiative in pursuing our goals. Laziness can kill our dreams and ambitions. By adopting a proactive approach and staying focused on our objectives, we can overcome laziness and achieve success. As psychologist William James said, “The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook.” By prioritizing our goals and focusing on what’s truly important, we can overcome procrastination and achieve success. The Power of Chadhi Kala Chadhi Kala, or being in a state of high spirits, is a key concept in Sikhism. It means being proactive, optimistic, and determined to achieve our goals. By embracing Chadhi Kala, we can overcome obstacles and achieve success in our endeavors. As Gurbani says, “Nanak naam chardi kala tere bhaine Sarbat da Bhala” – the name of the Lord is the source of high spirits and happiness to all.
Managing Anger and Cultivating Wisdom
Anger can kill wisdom. Once you lose your ability to control your emotions, you become angry and act like a mad person. As Gurbani says, “Kia sodhe krodh Niware” – one who conquers anger, knows the Lord and sees Him everywhere. Anger is a tool of fools, and wisdom is essential for handling challenging situations. As psychologist Daniel Goleman said, “The emotional mind is far more powerful than the rational mind.” By developing emotional intelligence and learning to manage our emotions, we can overcome anger and achieve wisdom.
Conquering Fear and Pursuing Dreams
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s words, “Na daron or Sion jab jia laron” – do not be afraid of fighting even a lion, inspire us to be fearless and proactive in pursuing our goals. By focusing on our dreams and developing a growth mindset, we can overcome fear and pursue our objectives with confidence. As psychologist Carol Dweck said, “Believing that your qualities can change creates a mindset that is open to input from others and that is eager for new challenges.” By adopting a growth mindset, we can overcome fear and achieve success.
Transcending Ego and Fostering Growth
As Guru Nanak Dev Ji says, “Houame Dirag rog hai daru bhi is Mahe” – ego is a big sickness, but the medicine for it lies within. By using our ego to fuel our growth and development, we can transcend its negative effects and achieve our goals. As psychologist Abraham Maslow said, “The highest human need is the need for self-actualization.” By focusing on personal growth and development, we can transcend our ego and achieve our full potential. Cultivating Mental Peace and Overcoming Jealousy Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s words, “Sukhmani Sukh Amrit prabh Naam” – the best medicine for happiness is the name of God or the mantra of the Guru, remind us that jealousy can kill mental peace. By cultivating a positive mindset and learning from others’ successes, we can overcome jealousy and achieve mental peace. As psychologist Martin Seligman said, “Happiness is not something that you find, it’s something that you create.” By focusing on what brings us joy and happiness, we can cultivate mental peace and overcome jealousy.
Building Confidence and Overcoming Doubts
As Guru Gobind Singh Ji says, “Nischey kar apni jeet kar” – have confidence and determination, and you will achieve victory. By breaking down our goals into smaller, manageable steps, we can build confidence and overcome doubts. As psychologist Albert Bandura said, “Self-efficacy is the foundation of motivation, well-being, and personal accomplishment.” By developing self-efficacy and confidence, we can overcome doubts and achieve success.
The Importance of Community
Community plays a vital role in Sikhism, providing support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. As Gurbani says, “Hoe iktar milo mere Bhai Dubidha Door karo live lai” – come together and remove all the doubt. Faith in Guru, prayer, meditation , with family and community support are key to happy , peaceful and successful life
Author Iqbal Singh Lalpura is Chairman, National Commission for Minorities, Sikh scholar and author of 20 books)