Sachin Sharma

Tag: Resilience

  • The Magic of Accepting What You Don’t Know

    The Magic of Accepting What You Don’t Know

    In a world that often celebrates knowledge and expertise, the notion of not knowing everything might initially seem counterintuitive. However, there’s a profound and often overlooked wisdom in acknowledging the limits of our knowledge. Contrary to what one might expect, not knowing everything can be liberating and profoundly beneficial for mental health. In this article, we will explore how embracing the idea that we don’t have all the answers can shield us from negative influences and enhance our overall well-being.

    Reducing the Pressure to Be Perfect:

    Constantly striving for perfection and omniscience can lead to immense pressure and stress. Acknowledging that it’s perfectly acceptable not to have all the answers allows us to breathe and relieve ourselves from the heavy burden of unrealistic expectations.

    Fostering Curiosity and Open-Mindedness:

    Embracing our limitations in knowledge fosters curiosity and open-mindedness. When we accept that we’re still learning and growing, we become more receptive to new ideas and perspectives, leading to personal growth and expanded horizons.

    Easing the Fear of Judgment:

    The fear of being judged for not knowing everything can be paralyzing. Letting go of this fear liberates us to ask questions, seek help, and engage in healthy discussions without the constant worry of appearing inadequate.

    Nurturing Humility:

    Humility is a powerful virtue often overshadowed by the quest for all-encompassing knowledge. Embracing our ignorance is an act of humility that fosters genuine connections with others and paves the way for meaningful relationships.

    Shielding Against Negative Influences:

    Not knowing everything acts as a protective shield against negative influences. It allows us to discern between valuable information and harmful misinformation or manipulation.

    Easing Anxiety and Overthinking:

    The constant pursuit of knowing everything can fuel anxiety and overthinking. By accepting our limitations, we can find solace in the idea that it’s okay not to have all the answers, reducing mental stress and anxiety.

    Fostering Empathy:

    Understanding that others don’t know everything either fosters empathy. It enables us to connect with others on a human level, recognizing that we all have areas where we lack knowledge and understanding.

    Encouraging Lifelong Learning:

    Embracing the idea of not knowing everything encourages lifelong learning. It instills a hunger for knowledge, inspiring us to continuously seek growth and self-improvement.

    Promoting Resilience:

    Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Accepting our limitations and the fact that we can’t predict or control everything enhances resilience, as it allows us to adapt more readily to unforeseen challenges.

    Embracing the Journey:

    Finally, not knowing everything shifts the focus from the destination to the journey. Life is an ever-evolving adventure, and accepting that we don’t have all the answers makes the journey more exciting and fulfilling.

    In conclusion, not knowing everything is far from a disadvantage; it is a powerful asset for mental health and personal growth. It liberates us from the pressure to be perfect, nurtures curiosity and humility, shields us from negative influences, and encourages resilience and empathy. Embracing the wisdom of not knowing everything ultimately leads to a more enriching and fulfilling life journey.

  • Why Some People Have Fragile Egos

    Why Some People Have Fragile Egos

    We’ve all encountered individuals who seem to have an inflated sense of their abilities despite their evident incompetence. This phenomenon is known as the Dunning-Kruger effect, wherein individuals with lower abilities tend to overestimate their competence. Such individuals often exhibit fragile egos, unable to handle criticism or feedback that challenges their self-perceived capabilities. In this article, we will explore the link between incompetence and fragile egos, delving into the psychological aspects that contribute to this intriguing phenomenon.

    Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect:

    The Dunning-Kruger effect, named after psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger, describes the cognitive bias where individuals with limited skills or knowledge mistakenly assess themselves as highly skilled. This bias arises because of a lack of metacognition, meaning they are unaware of their incompetence. Consequently, they may be overly confident in their abilities, leading to a fragile ego when faced with realities that contradict their self-perceptions.

    Incompetence and Overconfidence:

    Incompetent individuals often lack the expertise or experience to recognize their own limitations accurately. This lack of awareness creates a gap between their perceived abilities and their actual performance. The resulting overconfidence may shield their fragile egos from the truth, making it difficult for them to accept their shortcomings or acknowledge their lack of competence.

    Defensiveness and Fragile Egos:

    Fragile egos in incompetent individuals may manifest as defensiveness when their abilities are questioned or challenged. They may react defensively or even aggressively to feedback, dismissing valid criticism as unjust or irrelevant. This defensive stance shields them from the uncomfortable truth about their inadequacies, perpetuating the cycle of overestimating their competence.

    Confirmation Bias and Ignorance:

    Incompetent individuals may selectively seek out information or opinions that reinforce their self-perceived abilities, a cognitive bias known as confirmation bias. This tendency to ignore or dismiss contrary evidence further contributes to their fragile egos, as they surround themselves with reinforcing feedback that bolsters their inflated sense of competence.

    The Impact on Personal Growth:

    Fragile egos in the face of incompetence hinder personal growth and development. Without acknowledging their limitations, individuals may resist learning opportunities, hindering their chances for improvement. This stagnation can perpetuate a cycle of incompetence, limiting their potential for growth and achievement.

    Building Resilience and Self-Awareness:

    Recognizing and addressing a fragile ego due to incompetence is a vital step towards personal growth. Encouraging self-awareness and fostering a growth mindset can help individuals embrace constructive feedback and engage in continuous learning. Emphasizing the value of learning from mistakes and failures can reduce the fear of judgment and help build resilience.

    Conclusion:

    The Dunning-Kruger effect sheds light on the fascinating connection between incompetence and fragile egos. As individuals overestimate their abilities due to a lack of self-awareness, they may become defensive when confronted with their shortcomings. Acknowledging this cognitive bias can pave the way for personal growth and development, enabling individuals to embrace a growth mindset and build resilience. By encouraging self-awareness and promoting a culture of learning, we can break free from the constraints of a fragile ego and unleash our true potential for growth and success.

  • Parenting 101: How Strict and Lenient Should One Be with a Child

    Parenting 101: How Strict and Lenient Should One Be with a Child

    Parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs, challenges, and rewarding moments. As parents, we often find ourselves grappling with the question of how strict or lenient we should be with our children. Striking the right balance between these two approaches is crucial, as too much of either can have consequences for our children’s development and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the art of parenting between strictness and leniency, and why finding the middle ground is essential for raising resilient, emotionally healthy children.

    Understanding Strictness and Leniency:

    Strict parenting involves setting clear rules and boundaries for children to follow. Parents who adopt a strict approach prioritize discipline and order, with little room for negotiation or flexibility. On the other hand, lenient parenting is characterized by a more permissive and easy-going attitude. Lenient parents may be more inclined to give in to their child’s demands and avoid setting firm boundaries.

    The Consequences of Excessive Strictness:

    While setting boundaries is necessary for a child’s development, being overly strict can lead to negative outcomes. Children raised under excessive strictness may feel restricted, leading to feelings of rebellion and a lack of trust. Additionally, strict parenting can hinder a child’s ability to make independent decisions and develop problem-solving skills. The fear of punishment may also prevent children from communicating openly with their parents, hindering the parent-child relationship.

    The Pitfalls of Excessive Leniency:

    On the other end of the spectrum, being excessively lenient can also have adverse effects on a child’s development. Without clear boundaries, children may struggle with self-discipline and may not understand the importance of rules. The lack of structure may lead to a sense of entitlement and a difficulty in understanding consequences for their actions. Moreover, children may grow up feeling insecure or neglected if they perceive their parents as disinterested in their well-being.

    The Power of a Balanced Approach:

    A balanced approach to parenting involves finding the middle ground between strictness and leniency. This balanced approach provides children with the structure they need while allowing room for individuality and growth. By setting clear and consistent boundaries, children understand the expectations, and they feel secure in knowing what is acceptable behavior. Simultaneously, a balanced approach acknowledges the importance of understanding and empathy, fostering a supportive environment where children feel heard and understood.

    Benefits of a Balanced Parenting Style:

    A balanced parenting style nurtures emotional well-being and resilience in children. When children experience a balanced approach, they develop a sense of responsibility and accountability for their actions. They also learn how to cope with challenges, make decisions, and build self-confidence. Furthermore, children raised in a balanced environment tend to have healthier relationships with their parents, feeling more comfortable expressing their feelings and seeking guidance.

    Practical Tips for Finding Balance:

    1. Communication is Key: Encourage open and honest communication with your children. Listen to their concerns and thoughts without judgment, fostering trust and understanding.
    2. Set Clear Expectations: Establish clear rules and consequences, ensuring consistency in enforcing them. Explain the reasons behind the rules to help children understand the importance of adhering to them.
    3. Be Empathetic: Acknowledge your child’s feelings and emotions, even when setting boundaries. Validate their experiences and provide support when needed.
    4. Encourage Independence: Allow children to make age-appropriate decisions, fostering a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.
    5. Lead by Example: Model the behavior you want to see in your children. Demonstrate respect, empathy, and self-discipline to provide them with positive role models.

    Conclusion:

    Parenting is a delicate balancing act, where finding the middle ground between strictness and leniency is crucial for raising emotionally healthy and resilient children. A balanced approach provides children with the structure they need while nurturing their individuality and growth. By embracing empathy, clear communication, and consistent boundaries, parents can create a nurturing environment where children can flourish and develop the skills they need to thrive in life. Strive for balance in your parenting approach and witness the positive impact it has on your child’s well-being and overall development.

  • Healing from Trauma: Tips for Coping and Moving Forward

    Healing from Trauma: Tips for Coping and Moving Forward

    Trauma is an unfortunate part of life for many people. It can come in many forms, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or even natural disasters. Whatever the cause, trauma can have a lasting impact on a person’s mental health. However, it is important to remember that healing from trauma is possible, and there are many strategies that can help individuals cope and move forward. In this article, we will explore the connection between trauma and mental health, as well as provide tips and research-based strategies for healing.

    Trauma and mental health: the connection

    Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health. It can cause symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These symptoms can be debilitating, making it difficult for individuals to function in their daily lives. Trauma can also cause individuals to experience feelings of shame, guilt, and anger, which can further exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    Research has shown that trauma can also have a negative impact on an individual’s physical health. For example, individuals who have experienced trauma may have a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. Additionally, trauma can also lead to substance abuse and addiction, as individuals may use drugs and alcohol as a means of coping with the emotional pain caused by their traumatic experiences.

    Tips for coping and moving forward

    Despite the challenges posed by trauma, it is important to remember that healing is possible. Here are some tips and strategies that can help individuals cope and move forward:

    Seek support

    One of the most important steps in healing from trauma is seeking support. This can come in many forms, such as talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or confiding in a trusted friend or family member. Having a supportive network can provide individuals with the comfort and validation they need to heal.

    Engage in self-care

    Self-care is critical for individuals who have experienced trauma. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, and journaling. Engaging in self-care can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall mental health.

    Practice mindfulness

    Mindfulness is a practice that involves being present in the moment and focusing on one’s thoughts and feelings. Research has shown that mindfulness can be helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, as it can help them manage their symptoms and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

    Process the trauma

    Processing the trauma is an important part of healing. This can involve talking about the traumatic experience with a therapist, or writing about it in a journal. Processing the trauma can help individuals gain a better understanding of what happened, and it can also help them come to terms with their feelings and emotions.

    Avoid substance abuse

    Substance abuse can be tempting for individuals who have experienced trauma, but it is important to avoid it. Substance abuse can make symptoms worse and prevent individuals from healing. Instead, it is recommended to seek support and engage in healthy coping mechanisms.

    Seek professional help

    For some individuals, professional help may be necessary in order to heal from trauma. This can include seeing a therapist or a mental health professional who specializes in trauma. These professionals can help individuals process the trauma, manage their symptoms, and develop strategies for moving forward.

    Final Words…

    Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health, but it is important to remember that healing is possible. While the road to recovery may not be easy, it is important to take it one day at a time and not give up hope. Remember, healing is a journey and not a destination, and progress, no matter how small, is still progress.

  • Building Resilience: How to Bounce Back from Adversity

    Building Resilience: How to Bounce Back from Adversity

    Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, to adapt to change and to cope with difficult situations. It’s a vital aspect of mental and emotional well-being, and it can be developed and strengthened over time. Building resilience can help to improve overall well-being and to promote a sense of control and empowerment. Here are some ways to build resilience and to bounce back from adversity.

    Develop a growth mindset

    Having a growth mindset means viewing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. This mindset can help to promote a sense of control and empowerment and can help to reduce feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

    Practice self-compassion

    Self-compassion involves being kind and understanding to yourself, even when things don’t go as planned. It can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and can promote overall well-being.

    Build a support system

    Having a support system of friends, family members, and/or professionals can provide a sense of support and understanding and can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

    Practice mindfulness

    Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. It can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and can promote overall well-being.

    Set realistic goals

    Setting realistic goals can help to promote a sense of control and empowerment and can help to reduce feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

    Take care of yourself

    Taking care of yourself, both physically and emotionally, can help to promote overall well-being and can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.

    In conclusion, building resilience is an ongoing process, and it’s important to find ways to bounce back from adversity. Developing a growth mindset, practicing self-compassion, building a support system, practicing mindfulness, setting realistic goals, and taking care of yourself are all ways to build resilience and to bounce back from adversity. Remember that resilience is a skill that can be developed over time, and that it’s important to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you work on building resilience.

  • A Lotus in the Mud: An Interview by Pragati Sharma

    A Lotus in the Mud: An Interview by Pragati Sharma

    Dilshad Ali and Tilak Raj have been friends for over 20 years now. From sharing a rented apartment to sharing food, their story of love and care despite different faiths is all what we need to look up to. A simple story with foundation of values of compassion and respect; basic and yet forgotten.

    The Khan Rajma Chawal stall comes across as any other roadside food joint in Chandigarh. It sells delicious Rajma Chawal and Curry Chawal at prices starting as low as ₹30.

    The owner Dilshad Ali and his friend Tilak Raj, along with two helpers can be seen setting up their food stall a little after noon. It is usually the lunch hour, and customers from office-goers, passers-by to students can be seen buying from them. Students are especially fond of their feed and thus are seen in more numbers. Ali and Raj remain busy for the next 3 hours as customers come steadily.

    Dilshad Ali and Tilak Raj have been selling Rajma Chawal and Curry Chawal for 3 years now in Sector 15 Market, Chandigarh. However, it isn’t just the delicious food they sell that makes their story worth sharing, but a tale of incredible friendship thrashing stigmas and stereotypes.

    In present times when it is hard to overlook cases of communal tensions, their story sets a confident example of tolerance and fraternity between religions. The intimacy is both an inspiration and assurance to gladden our hearts.

    Dilshad Ali Khan, a Muslim by faith and Tilak Raj, a Hindu, boast of a friendship which is 23 years old. The friendship has witnessed no ups and downs in these years.

    “Ups and downs in friendship come with selfish interests. Here, it is pure love and support.”

    Dilshad, who started off as an electrician says he always have had love for cooking and wanted to pursue it. “I used to see youngsters around, they had problem finding good food here. My only attempt was to provide them quality food so they don’t miss home.” His wife, who also is a good cook, helps him in preparing the food. Tilak Raj, otherwise a government employee, comes only to help during the selling hours. He talks less and is quiet during most of the interview.

    Dilshad and Tilak Raj serving food to customers

    In response to skirmishes in the relation due to different belief systems, they say there have never been any.

    “It never felt like we are different or our beliefs are different. Mazhab nahi sikhata, aapas mein bair rakhna (Religion does not profess hostility). We follow this teaching.”

    Overall, the city has been kind to them, but their association have now and then faced criticism which “isn’t deserving enough to be paid attention to and should be ignored.”

    Talking of the persisting communal tensions in the country, Dilshad says, “The government should not try to incept communal hatred and rather maintain a congruous atmosphere. It is only a handful of people who try to disturb the peace and such people have no religion. Amidst of all this, it takes an effort to preserve this brotherhood of ours, allowing it to not get stained. I pray to Allah that it stays the same.”

    Pleased at being able to provide healthy and hygienic food at a reasonable price, they plan to extend the business. The food comes as a savior to students living as paying guests and is greeted with immense liking as people appear in considerable numbers.

    “I am a college student and I live in a paying guest (PG) accommodation, so it feels really good to have lunch there. It reminds me of my mother’s hand made food.”, says Shraddha Juyal (20), a college student. “Khan stall’s food gives me a taste of home away from home!”, says another college student,  Anmol Kaur (20).

    Their beautiful pact among serious communal conflict prevalent today, blooms and stands alone like a lotus in the mud! (pun intended)