CULTIVATING WISDOM AT A YOUNG AGE: A PATH TO LIFELONG SUCCESS

In a fast-paced and ever-changing world, wisdom is a timeless virtue with immense value. Although wisdom is often associated with older people, it can be fostered and developed at any age. People who embrace wisdom early in life can make better decisions, build meaningful relationships, and navigate challenges more effectively.

"One should be willing to explore practical steps to nurture wisdom and become wise at a young age. This will set the stage for a fulfilling and prosperous future”, says Dr Manimekalai Mohan, the founder of SSVM Group of Institutions, Coimbatore.

What is the first quality a child should cultivate to acquire wisdom?

One of the first steps towards gaining wisdom is adopting a growth mindset. Embrace the belief that intelligence and knowledge can be developed through effort, learning, and experience. View challenges as opportunities for growth, remain open to creative ideas, and see failures as valuable learning experiences. This will encourage continuous self-improvement and expand your perspective.

How should one encourage a child to explore new possibilities, seek wisdom, and gain diverse experiences?

Wisdom requires knowledge acquisition. Encourage your child to read voraciously, explore various subjects, and stay curious about the world around them. Engaging in intellectual conversations, attending seminars, and seeking mentorship from wise individuals helps them gain different perspectives, cultures, and experiences.

A child's overall development depends on critical thinking. In what ways can teachers and parents help students in this regard?

Critical thinking is a crucial skill for developing wisdom. Teach your child to question assumptions, evaluate information objectively, and think independently. Engaging in fruitful debates, analysing complex problems, and considering multiple viewpoints before forming opinions should become a habit.

Should parents and teachers often share their own life experiences with children? If so, how will it nurture their well-being?

Wisdom grows through reflection and learning stems from experience. Ask your kid to set aside quality time for introspection, journaling, or meditation to contemplate thoughts, actions, and lessons learned. Help them in identifying patterns, strengths, and areas of improvement. Remind them to celebrate successes, acknowledge mistakes, and extract wisdom from both.

How should one seek guidance from mentors, and will it help young minds to embrace a growth mindset?

Wise mentors offer invaluable guidance on our journey to wisdom. Ensure that your child engages in meaningful conversations, seeks advice, and learns from the experiences of teachers and older people at home. Their incredible knowledge from their life experiences can provide children with practical insights, broaden their perspective, and inspire them to embrace a wise approach to life.

India

C heck List

Plan It Right

FACT

Legend has it that a local chieftain Suraj Sen was cured of a deadly disease by a hermit-saint named Gwalipa. As a mark of gratitude, the chieftain founded the city of Gwalior in the saint's name.

Map not to scale

B est time to visit October to March.

While the Gwalior Fort, a majestic stronghold, offers breathtaking views, the Jai Vilas Palace, an architectural gem, exudes regal splendour through its opulent design and stunning architecture.

Eat It Right

Do try imarti, a popular sweet and a delight for the taste buds. Enjoy creamy yogurtbased dahi wadas or go for paani puri. Don't miss crispy moong daal kachoris with flavourful fillings.

Shop It Right

Shop for lacquer items, jewellery, metal-craft and hand-woven carpets at Patankar Bazaar. For authentic accessories and traditional textiles, visit Sarafa Bazaar. Buy leather bags and handicrafts at Topi Bazaar.