THE BEST ADVICE I EVER GOT

RD readers share the most valuable words of wisdom they’ve received

- SAPTAK CHOUDHURY

One of the few constants people encounter in their lives is advice. As children or as adults, we receive so much of it—some from the most unexpected corners—that it often becomes difficult for us to sift the valuable from the worthless. For the few who have struck it lucky, the experience has been inspiring and potentially life-changing. Reader’s Digest looks at a selection of the best pieces of advice our readers have received and the difference it has made to their lives.

90 per cent of success is just showing up

Hindi was a nightmare for me— I particularly dreaded the exams. On the day of my Hindi class-12 board exams, I panicked and refused to take it. My mother sat me down and calmly said, “Darling, just go, write your name, and the date. Then, read the question paper—if you still think you don’t know anything, come right back. But fill in your details so that the examiners know that you made an attempt to show up.” Her words inspired me and I managed to score 60 per cent in the subject. —Susan Muchhala, Mumbai

Develop your unique strength

Many years ago, a fellow passenger on a train gave me the best advice of my life. Although his bearded face is now hazy, I distinctly remember his words—“By dint of your application, you must so develop your unique strength that people will remember you primarily for an outstanding feature of your personality; even overlooking some of your flaws. The koel is remembered for its melodious voice, its ordinary looks notwithstanding. The peacock, on the other hand, grabs the limelight for its attractively coloured feathers, its raucous voice notwithstanding. —P. V. Raghu, New Delhi

Learn from your setbacks