"Every few decades a book is published that changes the lives of its readers forever" and The Alchemist counts among them. This is a life changing novel written by Paulo Coelho, one of the best selling and influential authors in the world. It takes the reader into an inspiring journey of consistent self-improvement aiming at encouraging him to chase his dreams and pursue his life legend.
Here are 7 golden life lessons that I have learnt from reading the alchemist:
Happiness is in the present moment
« Because I don’t live in either my past or my future. I’m interested only on the present. If you can concentrate only on the present, you’ll be a happy man. »
The secret is here on the present. If you pay attention to the present, you can improve upon it. And if you improve on the present, what comes later will also be better. Forget about the future, and live each day according to the teachings.
Stop being afraid of failure
« It was my fear of failure that first kept from attempting the Master Work. Now I’m beginning what I could have started ten years ago. But I’m happy at least that I didn’t wait twenty years. »
The pursuit of your dreams requires entering uncharted territory. But the experience you will gain will make it worthwhile. Learn to see the brightness from adversity you stumble across: « Tell you heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself.»
Be grateful everyday
« When each day is the same as the next, it’s because people fail to recognize the good things that happen in their lives everyday that the sun rises.»
Gratitude is the practice of finding the good in each day. There’s always a silver lining if you look for it. Learn to be observant and open to learning new things everyday.
The pursuit of success has a ripple effect
« When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too »
Consistent improvement is weaved into the fabric of life. Becoming a better version of yourself creates a ripple effect that changes everything around you. Sitting on the fence will get you nowhere.
Never be concerned with what others may think of you
“If someone isn’t what others want them to be, the others become angry. Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives, but none about his or her own.”
Your life time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. There’s no harm in seeking advice from others, but make sure it aligns with your desires.
Keep getting back up
“The secret of life, though, is to fall seven times and to get up eight times.”
Simply because the eighth time could be the breakthrough.
Take action to learn
“There is only one way to learn…It’s through action. »
You can study, read and lesson but the full experience is when you let the rubber meet the road.
This article is inspired from the book 'The Alchemist', by Paulo Coelho.
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