Success Mantra.

 Indian society has transformed  much. 

Values & Ethos have declined. 

Concepts like live-in relationships, LGBT (Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgenders), that were unheard of by my generation are  commonplace. 

Gen Z couples are putting in divorce papers on flimsy grounds, changing partners like clothes. 

In the past divorcees were stigmatized, now they are widely accepted. 

Immoralities such as infidelity and partner swapping are rampant. 

Humanity, loyalty and patience have irretrievably lost in the maze of so called fast-paced life. 

Last week I got a chance to listen to a popular life coach's lecture on the essential skills required to be successful in the contemporary society. 

He exhorted the audience to be exhibitionists, extroverts for a successful career. 

For him, introverts speak less because they know nothing. 

Essentially an introvert myself, I took umbrage and stood up, "Sir, why do you think that quietness is a flaw?" Listening effectively is equally essential. In fact it is more important than talking trash. For effective decisions, thoughtfully processing the information is of paramount importance. Albert Einstein was an introvert. Was he a dumb? Bill Gates is an introvert. Is he a failure?" 

Taken aback, he quickly finished his lecture. 

After the lecture, he took me aside and said, "Sir, you're probably from Gen X. Times have changed now. To be successful nowadays, one has to learn a thing or two from cunning government officials." 

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"Sir, government officials in offices pose themselves to be dead busy, very intelligent. The fact remains that they constitute the most incompetent, inefficient work force in the country. 

Likewise to be successful in modern times, one has to show off, pretend effectively. One has to learn the art of sweet-talking even if one doesn't know the basic difference between a cow and buffalo" he said smilingly. 

Perhaps the life coach is right. 

Times have definitely changed for old-fashioned like me. 

~ Sanjay Gargish ~