Chanakya Niti: 4 Powerful Lessons for Success & Mental Strength
Ancient Indian philosopher Chanakya's wisdom remains relevant today. His teachings on developing discretion of mind is important for moving in the right direction. Contentment and balance of mind can gift true happiness. People should learn to be dangerous while dealing with villainy and cruelty in this world and knowledge offers a path to inner strength and success. These principles help navigate life's challenges and the modern information age.
Chanakya was an Indian philosopher who played a key role in the establishment of the Maurya Empire thousands of years ago. His ideas and perspectives about life are timeless and has been helping generations of individuals in navigating life’s complexities. In fact, in today’s world where truths are getting blurred in the cacophony of information and digital distractions, the teachings of Chanakya are becoming more eminent. In this article, we will explore 4 of the most important lessons from this great philosopher for strengthening our soul and for attaining success.
1. Chanakya on Developing Viveka
In Chankya Niti, Acharya Chanakya wrote: “Do not reveal what you have thought upon doing, but by wise counsel keep it secret, being determined to carry it into execution.”
Numerous modern-day psychological research are confirming the truth contained within these words of Chanakya. When we have a goal, it is best to keep it a secret. Psychology tells that, when we make our goals public, we will feel a sense of fulfilment. This feeling will reduce the amount of efforts that we will give for achieving those goals. Acharya Chanakya knew this truth, thousands of years ago.
You should discuss your goals only with the wisest and closest friends in your life. Listen to their opinion. But, use your own intuition while making a decision. The final decision must be made by relying entirely on your own inner truth and wisdom. This is the path of viveka.
2. Chanakya on Developing Self-Control
“There is no austerity equal to a balanced mind and there is no happiness equal to contentment.”
Today, a lot of people are always running after external elements, whether it is fame, money or validation of others. However, the truth is, these things cannot guarantee happiness. What makes us actually happy are balance of mind and contentment, as pointed out by Acharya Chanakya.
Even if we gather a lot of money, if most of our time is spent worrying about losing it or even about maintaining it, then we are not happy. Therefore, a wise man ought to focus on developing balance of mind. Meditation, yoga, reading profound texts, taking guidance from an accomplished guru etc are all steps that we can take in this direction.
3. Chanakya on Competence
“Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should pretend to be venomous.”
Striving through this world is not a matter of roses and sunshine. Sometimes, we may have to deal with cruel and selfish people too. So, we should have the ability to become dangerous and assertive against them. For example, even if a snake doesn’t bite, if it hiss and appear venomous, it can deter those who try to disturb its peace. The same goes for our lives as well. We have to be strong enough to deal with any kinds of problems that life throws at us.
4. Chanakya About Knowledge
“A learned man is honoured by the people. A learned man commands respect everywhere for his learning. Indeed, learning is honoured everywhere.”
Here, Acharya Chanakya is writing from his own experience. It was his knowledge and practical wisdom that gifted him a respectable position in society. Knowledge is the greatest power in this world. With awareness, taking the right action is much easier. Ignorance means darkness and it is very easy to get lost in it. Hence, take up a book carrying timeless wisdom about human life or nature. Read everyday. Discuss with people who are also engaged in the journey of strengthening their wisdom. This path can ensure inner freedom and greatness.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best advice of Chanakya?
Key teachings of Chanakya include controlling your habits to dictate success, maintaining strict secrecy in your plans until they are executed and using knowledge as your primary power. - What are the lessons of leadership from Chanakya?
Chanakya’s leadership principles, as explained in Arthashastra, emphasise that a leader's success is tied to the welfare of their followers. - What are the management lessons from Kautilya Arthashastra?
Key principles on management by Chanakya include prioritising citizen welfare and merit-based recruitment to ensure long-term prosperity.