Academic Success and Quality of Life
The pursuit of academic success, and the image of two-decades old us from the past! Let’s fly by some imaginary time machine to the hostel rooms of our respective Universities. Those mountains of books, eyes bloodshot from sleepless nights, and sustained by the endless supply of coffee and tea during the exam times, seems all too familiar. But as most of us chased grades, accolades, and the acceptance letters from institutions or companies, did we ever pause to think if academic success is synonymous with quality life? Can we answer if we achieved excellence without sacrificing our emotional well-being and mental health?
Reflecting on it, the answer is a crystal one. Academic success and quality of life is a balancing tale for everyone. Consciously or unconsciously, we all did it. While some passed, others failed. Some gave up and got lost; others pursued throughout and made it to success. Everyone’s journey is different, with different complexities, sacrifices and experiences.
The Success Paradox and Quality of Life
The pursuit of academic success, though a golden ticket to a prosperous life, is also a double-edged sword. On one continuum, there are opportunities, career advancements, and societal recognition. On the other, the relentless pressure to succeed leading to burnout and stress. In the movie, “Dead Poets Society”, Neil Perry (played by Robert Sean Leonard), a talented student with dreams of becoming an actor, gives into his father’s expectation and pursue a conventional career path. But the cost of academic success was too high for him as it came at the expense of his passion and health. A poignant reminder of the success paradox!
Quality of Life and the Mind-Soul Dichotomy
There is always an ongoing debate on the mind and soul relationship. Descartes, the philosopher, clearly emphasized the importance of the mind in defining existence with his “Cogito, ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am). However, we often relate the pursuit of academic success with intellectual achievements, often neglecting the nurturing of the soul and our overall wellbeing.
But recall the movie “The Pursuit of Happiness”, and it nicely explains that true success is not just about professional or academic achievements. It’s about strong will and determination to counter all challenges that life throws. Chris Gardner’s character, played by Will Smith, illustrates that true success is about keeping meaningful relationships, personal fulfilment, and the most important of all, emotional resilience. Amidst all absurdities of existence, live life with little seriousness. Keep the fun part alive to navigate all absurdities that life brings.
Achieving the Balance Between Quality of Life and Academic Success
Have you ever seen the acrobats walking the tightrope with grace, patience and dare? A slight lack of concentration, and the possibility to slip to ground. A little less dare and the game ends even without a beginning. And without grace, spectators would not care to appreciate. All the ingredients are important. The quest for the balance between academic success and quality of life is akin to this. Finding a harmonious blend! Every instrument has a role to play in a composition to become a beautiful song much like the aspects of our life.
To achieve this symphony, it is important to set realistic goals. Incremental progress is the key. Accept failure as a stepping stone to success keeping an eye on personal growth. Mistakes are a part of life and they offer the most valuable lessons. Remember how Thomas Edisson discovered countless ways not to make a light bulb before finding the one that worked.
Time is crucial and learn to manage it. In desert, water is a precious resource; likewise in life, time is everything. But while prioritising the tasks, learn to set boundaries and dedicate time for relaxation and self-care.
To maintain quality of life in the rush hours of success, mindfulness and meditation are handy tools. Incorporating such present-moment awareness practices into daily life is a way to maintain emotional equilibrium and keep stress at bay. Physical activity, added to this routine, is an added advantage to keep the body fit along with mind. A little brisk walk in the campus, a game of badminton, etc. Why not add one at least in the busy academic schedule?
Finally, “chai pe charcha” with friends in some campus cafeteria is a great way to form social connections and burst all stress with every sip of the tea. Meaningful discussions with connections provide emotional sustenance and help navigate pressures of academic life.
Along with personal efforts, institutions also play a significant role in fostering a balanced approach. Finland is the happiest country in the world as it focusses on work life balance. The education system therein emphasizes balanced approach to learning. Who wouldn’t yearn for less homework, shorter school days and ample time to play and engage in creative pursuits? Finland has shown to the world that such efforts can help in achieving high global education standards besides improving quality of student life.
It’s a matter of concern with statistics showing that more and more college going students report anxiety and stress. It draws attention to the urgent need to address mental health of young minds. Relentless pursuit of excellence in the academic arena can bring detrimental effect on emotional health. On the contrary, research suggests that extracurricular activities with studies help maintain a healthy work-life balance with higher academic performance and life satisfaction.
A progressive academic environment with fun and studies can help all Wills (Will a character played by Matt Damon in Good Will Hunting) confront academic fears and embrace talents. A free environment helps in self-discovery, and finding a balance between intellectual and personal growth. Balancing academic success and quality of life is a philosophical quest that requires a holistic approach. Hence, let’s bring the mind and soul in a balance by engaging in positive practices such as setting realistic goals, time management, practising mindfulness and maintaining social connections. Pursuit of knowledge and practical wisdom are equally important in achieving academic success without compromising the quality of life.
So, the next time you feel drowned in the flood of notes, and books, breathe deep, reconnect your mind with the soul and laugh your worries away. Success is not just about our achievements but also about how we live.
