Three Principles of Indian Philosophy That Can Guide Your UPSC Journey to Success

Facebook
LinkedIn
X
WhatsApp
Telegram

Table of Contents

The path to cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination is long, challenging, and filled with numerous hurdles. But in this process, where every aspirant must cope with immense pressure and stress, the application of some timeless guiding principles can help ease the way. Drawing from the vast wisdom of Indian philosophy, I have personally found that incorporating specific philosophical ideals into my life and preparation can help reduce stress, stay focused, and succeed in this prestigious examination. In this blog, I will discuss three powerful principles from Indian philosophy that can guide you toward achieving your dream of becoming a civil servant.

1. Nishkaam Karmayoga (Detached Action)

One of the first and most impactful principles is the concept of Nishkaam Karmayoga, as outlined in the Bhagavad Gita. The Gita tells us:

“Karmany evadhikaras te, ma phaleshu kadachana, ma karma-phala-heturbhur, ma te sango ‘stv akarmani.”

Translated, this means: You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor should you become attached to not doing your duty.

In simple terms, Nishkaam Karmayoga encourages us to perform our duties (like UPSC preparation) with full dedication and effort, but without being overly attached to the outcome. This is incredibly relevant when preparing for the UPSC exams, as many aspirants tend to get overwhelmed by the uncertainty and unpredictability of the results.

How it Helps in UPSC Preparation

In the context of UPSC preparation, the principle of detached action can help you focus on the process rather than obsessing over the results. When preparing for the exam, you may find yourself feeling anxious about the outcome. The idea of Nishkaam Karmayoga teaches you that while it’s natural to desire success, you should focus on what you can control—your study habits, your time management, and your approach to learning. By doing so, you will not only reduce stress but also stay committed to the task at hand, without being demotivated by failure or success.

For example, if you feel anxious after appearing for the Preliminary Exam, don’t spend your time worrying about the results. Instead, channel that energy into preparing for the Mains, ensuring that you are always in the moment. By practicing this mindset, you build resilience, which is crucial for long-term success.

2. Anekantavad and Syadwad (Non-Absolutism)

The second guiding principle is found in Jain philosophy. Anekantavad (non-absolutism) teaches us that no perspective is the absolute truth. Every individual sees the world from their own unique point of view, and there is no single perspective that can be considered the final or complete truth.

The principle can be better understood through the famous parable of “The Elephant and the Seven Blind Men.” In this story, seven blind men try to describe an elephant by feeling different parts of its body. One feels the trunk and thinks it is a snake, another touches the tusk and believes it is a spear, and so on. Each man’s interpretation is based on his limited experience, but none of them are fully correct.

How it Helps in UPSC Preparation

This concept encourages you to understand that no one’s perspective is absolutely right or wrong. The same applies when preparing for UPSC. There are numerous ways to approach your preparation—be it through various study materials, strategies, or coaching institutes. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is crucial to be open to other viewpoints and not rigidly adhere to a single method.

While preparing for UPSC, respecting different perspectives and learning from them will give you a broader understanding of subjects. For example, while choosing your optional subject, it is important to gather different opinions from various sources, including students, mentors, or UPSC coaching in Delhi. By embracing this mindset, you will not only become more adaptable but will also be able to enhance your learning experience.

3. Madhyam Marg (The Middle Path)

The third guiding principle that can help you during UPSC preparation is Madhyam Marg, or the Middle Path, as taught by Lord Buddha. The Middle Path is the key to maintaining balance in life by avoiding extremes. Buddha’s philosophy stresses that excessive indulgence or complete renunciation leads to suffering, while a balanced approach leads to true happiness.

How it Helps in UPSC Preparation

In the context of the UPSC exams, Madhyam Marg teaches you to find a balanced approach in every aspect of your preparation. Don’t overburden yourself with excessive study hours, nor should you be lax in your approach. For example, when attempting your Mains examination, you need to maintain a balance between providing comprehensive answers and sticking to the word limit. If you write too much, your answers can lose focus; if you write too little, you may not provide enough depth. Similarly, in the UPSC Interview, adopting a balanced, reasonable stance and avoiding extreme views will leave a positive impression.

Furthermore, when deciding on the right IAS coaching center in Delhi, the Middle Path can guide you to make a reasonable choice. While some coaching institutes may promise fast-track results, others might emphasize a slow and steady approach. You need to assess your own needs and choose a coaching institute that offers a balanced approach to UPSC preparation, rather than being swayed by extreme promises.

Reducing Stress and Building Resilience

The UPSC exam is one of the most prestigious but also one of the most stressful examinations. The three principles discussed above—Nishkaam Karmayoga, Anekantavad, and Madhyam Marg—can greatly reduce stress and help you maintain emotional and mental stability throughout your preparation.

In addition to these principles, here are a few more tips that will help you stay calm and focused during your preparation:

  1. Set Realistic Goals: It’s important to set achievable and realistic goals each day. This prevents you from getting overwhelmed by the enormous syllabus of UPSC.
  2. Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your progress and areas that need improvement. This reflection can help you fine-tune your study strategies.
  3. Physical and Mental Health: Incorporating physical exercise and stress-relief techniques like meditation can significantly boost your concentration and energy levels during preparation.
  4. Focus on the Process: Just as Nishkaam Karmayoga teaches, focus on doing your best every day, without getting attached to the outcome.
  5. Join the Right Coaching: Choose the best IAS coaching in Delhi that aligns with your study needs and offers personalized mentorship.

Incorporating these guiding principles from Indian philosophy into your preparation for the UPSC will help you stay grounded, calm, and focused on your goals. Remember, it’s not just about hard work; it’s about working smart, staying true to your beliefs, and cultivating a balanced approach.

Facebook
LinkedIn
X
WhatsApp
Telegram
Scroll to Top