Looking for success

Everywhere you turn, it seems like everyone is looking for the same thing - success. Although the definition of the word may be unique to each individual, the general consensus seems to be that pursuit of success is a worthy goal.

On Sunday I attended a one-day seminar on "Secrets of Success" by Dr. Girish Patel, a well-known psychologist who integrates several scientific concepts into a spiritual quest from his position as the head of the medical wing of the well-known organization of Brahmakumaris. The large auditorium on the Shanti Sarovar campus in Gachibowli, Hyderabad was more than half-full on a hot March weekend. To his credit, Dr. Patel reached every member of the audience, kept them engrossed in his talk with simple stories, made us stand up and say our affirmations loudly and with lots of physical energy to infuse enthusiasm into our aspirations.

A surprise visitor during the proceedings was none other than megastar Chiranjeevi, in a slimmer avatar, who kept a low profile. When asked to speak, he gave examples from his own life where simple strategies like visualization played a vital role in achieving his dream of becoming a celebrity. It was heartwarming to hear his story in a few words, totally within the context of the topic. I must admit I was impressed by his sincerity.

Many of the approaches to achieving success that were shared have been described before, in self-help books and how-to guides. The difference here was the emphasis on spirituality. We were led through a few meditation sessions which calmed and energized the audience.

Did we learn any new secrets that day? Yes. Will each member of the audience succeed? Who knows? The proof really is in honestly applying what we learned towards our individual goals while holding on firmly to the belief that God will enable us to achieve that which is good for us and in harmony with the Universe.