How can we instill good
values whether in our child, our juniors or our subordinates? Is there a way
that allows us to transfer good moral values whether it is integrity,
perseverance, kindness or compassion? In my opinion there is no easy way.
As opposed to our academic
lessons where we understand things, values need to imbibed and internalized. We
cannot intellectualize values, we need to internalize it.
These are my thoughts on this
difficult topic. Please feel free to
come up with your ideas.
Futility of reason and explanations: Values can never be transmitted by way of
explanations and reasons. However sound your reasons may be the other person
will either acknowledge or disagree with your views. It will never go deep into
the psyche. Reason and logic can be used as supporting elements but never as
the primary cause for transmitting values.
The strength of mythology and fables: Mythology and
fables are usually good tools to transfer values. A story has a soul and is a
good way to transmit values. So whether it patient Job or the valiant Arjuna
stories are pretty powerful tools. Aesop’s tales and other fables are also
excellent tools particularly in the case of the children.
Leading by example: This is another potent way to pass important values and principles to
others. We always tend to look up to role models in life. A Gandhiji, a Mother
Teresa or a Bill Gates is a sound example of role models in our life. It is
always said that the key method to pass good values to children is by being a
role model for them. Children always look up to their parents. Similarly in a
corporate world the values of the CEO are usually a pointer to the way the
organization is headed.
Inculcating sound values take
time and requires a lot of patience. It is extremely critical that we live the
values that we want to transfer to others.
No comments:
Post a Comment