Prof. Colin Coulson-Thomas imparts wisdom on success, urging us to embrace positive attributes and learn from both experience and ancient wisdom.

Here is the part -2 of the text of Prof. Colin Coulson-Thomas talk at Gyan Diksha Samaroh Commencement Ceremony of 22^nd Academic Session at Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management-Research, New Delhi held on September 2, 2017

Success and Positive Attributes

Success can be measured relative to our aspirations and what could or should be, and relative to our individual and collective potential. Attributes considered positive – and behaviours sought – tend to be those that appear to work.

Learning from Experience and Ancient Wisdom

We can learn from our own experience about what works and does not work. Sometimes this involves learning the hard way and experiencing disappointment, failure, and pain. It makes sense to learn from the wisdom of others, particularly wise people who over the centuries and millennia have thought about what advice to give.

Respect for Ancestors and Past Wisdom

Ancient wisdom and past attempts to create shared values – and in some cases universal ones – have helped our ancestors to get us to where we are today. Both Bernard of Chartres and Sir Isaac Newton acknowledged that they were able to move forward because they stood upon the shoulders of giants. Respect those who have gone before and have laboured to build the foundations of our civilization.

Preservation and Transmission of Knowledge

Not everything that has been recorded has survived. Much has been lost, as when the great library at Alexandria burned. However, much has also been painstakingly passed from generation to generation. The literature and domestic fragments that have survived suggest human nature has not changed that much over the last few thousand years.

Relevance of Ancient Wisdom Today

When we see similar expressions of character all around us, it is a brave, arrogant, and perhaps irresponsible person who ignores ancient wisdom or refuses to learn from it. Threats and challenges have been an ever-present feature of the human experience, and much of what ancient voices have to say can be relevant – indeed especially relevant – to us today.

Preparation for Novel Situations

At the same time, in all eras, the unexpected can and often does arise. We need to be prepared for novel situations, new challenges, and unanticipated events. Be inspired and motivated by ancient wisdom rather than constrained and limited by it.

Creativity, Innovation, and Adaptation

To confront some challenges and seize certain opportunities, we need to be creative, innovative, and entrepreneurial. Traditional, learned, and approved responses may not be sufficient, appropriate, or effective. We also require the ability to assess, imagine, and invent. We also need the courage to discover, explore, and pioneer.

Environmental Considerations and Lifestyle Choices

Certain challenges already affect the planet we share with other forms of life. Human activity has adverse consequences for us, other species, and the environment. Unless innovation and disruptive technologies provide viable alternatives, our future may depend upon the extent to which we change our priorities and adopt simpler, healthier, and more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyles.

Sharing Personal Observations and Advice

I will share what I have observed and learned. Its relevance may vary according to your aspirations, priorities, situation, and circumstances. Be balanced. Avoid being at the extremes.

Maintaining Perspective and Individuality

Keep a sense of proportion. As Charles Handy said to us when we started at the London Business School, don’t trip over the daisies. He also advised against looking over your shoulders at others. Comparisons may not be relevant and can be misleading. You don’t have to be first at everything. I was last at Latin at school. The sum total of who and what you are, your aspirations, your motivations, who you associate with, and how you live your life will determine your impact in and upon this world.