Preface

I was born free. So were you.

No name, no caste, no religion. Just an unshaped

soul — infinite, fearless, and untamed.

But the world doesn’t like free minds.

They gave me a name, and suddenly I was

someone — but someone by their definition, not
mine. They stamped me with an identity before I
could even speak. They built a cage around my
mind and called it "education." They measured
my worth with grades, told me obedience was
wisdom, and warned me that stepping off the
path meant ruin.

They convinced me — and you — that success is

a title, a job, a number in a bank account. They
told us freedom means fitting in, being accepted,
staying quiet. They called it life. But it’s slavery —
wrapped in gold, disguised as a dream.

This book is not a gentle hand or a motivational

pat on the back.
This book is a weapon.
It’s a sword to cut through the lies and burn
down the illusions. It’s a mirror, forcing you to
look at the version of yourself you were never
meant to become — the one shaped by fear,
greed, and conformity.

You were never meant to be a follower.

You were never meant to live a life someone
else designed for you.

The world told you to chase success. I’m here to

tell you — chase truth instead.

Success fades. Money rots. Power corrupts. But

truth? Truth liberates.

The truth is this: You are nothing — and that is

your greatest power. When you strip away the
labels, the expectations, the lies — you return to
zero, to the raw, unshaped, infinite version of
yourself. From that zero, you can build anything.
From that nothingness, you can become
everything.

This book is a rebellion — a call to unlearn

everything they made you believe.

It’s for the misfits, the dreamers, the restless

minds that never felt at home in this world. It’s
for the souls who feel the weight of the system
but know, deep down, they were born to break
it.

You don’t need permission to be free.

You don’t need validation to be powerful.
You don’t need the system to tell you who you
are.

Burn the false self.

Reject the illusion.
Reclaim your mind.

This isn’t just a book. It’s a battle cry — a war

against the lies that hold you prisoner.

The chains are tightening. The crowd is moving.

Will you follow, or will you rise?

The revolution isn’t coming.

It starts now — with you.

— Saurabh Katiyar
Contents
1. The Illusion of Identity: Breaking Free
from Mental Slavery
Who are you — beyond the name, the
labels, and the lies?

2. The Awakening: Destroying the False Self

To become who you truly are, you must
first unmake who they taught you to be.

3. Untouchable: Beyond Fear and System

What if fear was never yours to begin
with — but a leash they placed on you?

4. The Creator: Building Your Own Reality

The world isn’t something you find — it’s
something you create.

5. The Torchbearer: Leading the Lost

A leader isn’t someone who controls the
crowd — but someone who shows them
they never needed one.

6. Becoming the System’s Nightmare

When you stop obeying, you stop existing
on their terms — and that’s when they
fear you.
7. Building the New World
If the system is broken beyond repair,
maybe it’s time to build something better.

8. The True Vision of Life: Beyond the

Illusion of Success
Success isn’t what they told you. It’s not in
wealth, status, or approval — it’s in
purpose.

9. The Rise of the Conscious Rebel

The world changes not by those who fit in
— but by those brave enough to stand
alone.

10. Building a Life of Purpose

When you stop chasing what’s
meaningless, you start creating what
matters.

11. Zero to Infinity: Becoming the Light

From nothingness, you become limitless.
From zero, you become infinite.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 1

Chapter 1: The Illusion

of Identity — Breaking
Free from Mental
Slavery
“The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom
is freedom from fear.” — Aung San Suu Kyi

The Birth of Purity

When you were born, you were pure — an empty

slate, free from the weight of labels, expectations,
and fears. You were a limitless source of potential.
You didn’t know your name, your religion, your caste,
or even what success or failure meant. You simply
were. A being of infinite possibilities.

But soon after, the world began to write on that slate.

Society, family, school, religion, and the system
shaped you into what they wanted you to become.
They gave you a name, a caste, a nationality — and
told you that these things define you. You were
taught that your worth depends on your grades, your
job, your wealth, and how well you fit into the roles
designed by others.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 2

Suddenly, the limitless being within you was replaced

by a manufactured identity. You became a reflection
of societal expectations — not your true self.

The Chains of Conditioning

"The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance; it

is the illusion of knowledge." — Stephen Hawking

From childhood, you were fed rules, beliefs, and ideas

that were never yours to begin with. If you score less,
you’re a failure. If you don’t secure a high-paying job,
you’re useless. If you think differently from the crowd,
you’re wrong.

This is not education; it’s conditioning — a systematic

way of turning a powerful, free human being into a
submissive cog in a machine.

Fear and greed were planted deep within you:

 Fear of failure.

 Fear of being alone.

 Fear of disappointing others.

 Greed for success, status, and wealth.

These emotions became the driving force of your life.

But who decided that these things define your worth?
Did you? Or did the system?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 3

The Manufactured Reality

Imagine this: A lion born and raised in a cage grows

up believing the cage is its world. Even if the cage
door is opened, the lion might never step out —
because it doesn’t know freedom exists. It believes
the cage is where it belongs.

You are that lion.

Your cage is made of false beliefs, inherited identities,

and societal pressures. And just like the lion, you may
not even realize you’re trapped.

But the truth is this entire reality — the one that says
you must follow the crowd, obey the system, chase
success, and fear failure — is man-made. It’s an
illusion.

Breaking Free: The Return to Zero

"He who controls others may be powerful, but he who

has mastered himself is mightier still." — Lao Tzu

Real freedom begins when you unlearn what you

were taught to believe about yourself. It starts when
you break the mental chains that bind you.

To truly awaken, you must first return to zero — the

state of purity you were born with, free from false
identities. This doesn’t mean you erase everything
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 4

you know. It means you question everything you’ve

accepted blindly.

 Are you really your name, caste, or

nationality?

 Are you only as good as your grades or job

title?

 Are you living your life — or someone else’s

dream?

When you shed these manufactured identities, you

don’t become nothing — you become limitless again.
Zero isn’t emptiness; it’s a foundation of endless
possibilities.

From Zero to Infinity

The moment you return to zero, a new journey begins

— a journey towards infinity. It’s the path of self-
discovery and mastery.

Infinity doesn’t mean having no limits in the material

sense; it means understanding that you are not bound
by fear, greed, or false identities. You become the
creator of your own identity — one built on your
truth, not the system’s lies.

Look at the greatest minds and revolutionaries in

history — Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla, Leonardo da
Vinci, Gautama Buddha, Socrates, and even modern
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 5

trailblazers like Elon Musk. They weren’t shaped by

the crowd. They stood apart, questioned the norms,
and broke free from mental slavery.

They dared to return to zero — and from that, they

created their own infinity.

The Choice is Yours

“The man who follows the crowd will usually go no

further than the crowd. The man who walks alone is
likely to find himself in places no one has ever been.”
— Albert Einstein

So now the decision lies before you:

 Will you remain a product of conditioning, a

slave to the system — living for others'
approval?

 Or will you strip away the false layers, return

to zero, and build your true self from scratch?

The path won’t be easy. You’ll face resistance from

those who fear your awakening. But once you break
free, no one can control you again.

Is it time to choose: slavery or infinity?

Your journey begins now.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 6

Chapter 2: The
Awakening —
Destroying the False
Self
“It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a
profoundly sick society.” — Jiddu Krishna Murti

The First Fracture

The moment you decide to break free from the

illusion, a crack forms in the false identity you’ve
worn for so long. It’s unsettling. The comfort of the
familiar — even if it’s a prison — begins to call you
back. The crowd looks safe. The system feels secure.
But deep down, you now know the truth: it was never
real.

You’ve seen the cage for what it is. Now, you stand at
the edge, staring into the unknown. The path ahead is
not paved by society; it’s raw, untamed, and yours to
create.

This is where the real war begins — not with the

world, but within yourself.

The False Self: Your Greatest Enemy

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 7

"The worst loneliness is to not be comfortable with

yourself." — Mark Twain

The false self is the version of you that the world

created. It’s made of labels, expectations, and fear.
It’s the voice that tells you:

 “You must fit in to be accepted.”

 “You need more money to be respected.”

 “You must achieve success to be worthy.”

 “If you fail, you’re nothing.”

This voice isn’t yours — it belongs to the system. But

it speaks from inside you, pretending to be your own
thoughts. It’s clever, manipulative, and relentless.

The false self is afraid of one thing: truth. Because

truth burns it to the ground.

The Collapse of Lies

Imagine a tower built on a foundation of lies. Every

brick represents a belief you never questioned:

 “Good grades define intelligence.”

 “A high-paying job equals success.”

 “Marriage, children, and a house equal a

complete life.”
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 8

 “Sacrifice your dreams for stability.”

 “Follow the rules, and you’ll be happy.”

What happens when you realize the foundation is

rotten? The tower collapses. And for a while, you feel
lost, broken, and empty. But this collapse isn’t the
end — it’s the beginning.

Because only when the false self-dies can the real you
emerge.

The Fire of Transformation

“You have to die a few times before you can really

live.” — Charles Bukowski

The destruction of the false self feels like death

because, in a way, it is. It’s the death of who you were
told to be — and the birth of who you truly are.

This transformation is not comfortable. You’ll face:

 Loneliness — because you’ll no longer fit in

with the crowd.

 Fear — because the future is now unwritten.

 Doubt — because the old voices will try to

pull you back.

But something extraordinary happens when you push

through this fire: you realize that the pain wasn’t
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 9

coming from breaking free — it was from holding on

to a false life that never belonged to you.

The Rise of the True Self

Once the false self crumbles, the real you — the one
buried beneath years of conditioning — begins to rise.
This version of you doesn’t seek approval. It doesn’t
chase empty success or fear failure. It simply exists in
its purest form: free, fearless, and limitless.

This is the moment you return to zero — not as a

blank slate, but as a conscious creator.

Zero is now your weapon. It’s the place where you

shed the past, reject the lies, and build yourself from
truth. And from zero, infinity starts to unfold.

Reclaiming Your Power

“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself.

Aloud.” — Coco Chanel

You’ve been conditioned to believe power belongs to

those above you — governments, corporations,
religions, systems. But what if the greatest power was
always within you?

The system survives because people obey. It collapses

when people think.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 10

When you reclaim your mind, you become

uncontrollable. No longer can fear, guilt, or social
pressure manipulate you. You see the world for what
it truly is: a stage where most people are acting out
roles they never chose.

But you’re no longer an actor. You’re the writer of

your own script.

The World Fears the Awakened

Be prepared — the world won’t celebrate your

awakening. People trapped in the system will see your
freedom as a threat. They’ll call you reckless,
arrogant, or even crazy.

Why? Because your very existence becomes proof

that the cage isn’t real.

When one person breaks free, they expose the

illusion. And the crowd hates nothing more than
being reminded of their chains.

But remember this: Their fear is not your burden.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 11

Chapter 3: Untouchable
— Beyond Fear, Beyond
the System
“The secret to happiness is freedom… and the secret
to freedom is courage.” — Thucydides

The Illusion of Fear

Fear is the most powerful weapon ever created. Not

guns, not bombs — fear. It’s invisible, yet it controls
billions of lives. It keeps people in jobs they hate, in
relationships that suffocate them, and in systems that
exploit them.

But what is fear, really?

It’s a prediction — a hallucination of pain that hasn’t

happened yet. The system feeds you this hallucination
from birth:

 “If you don’t obey, you’ll suffer.”

 “If you step out of line, you’ll be punished.”

 “If you chase your own path, you’ll fail.”

And so, you obey. Not because you want to, but
because you’re terrified of the alternative.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 12

But here’s the truth: The fear isn’t real. It never was.
It’s a story designed to keep you weak and compliant.

The Death of Fear

What happens when you face fear head-on — when

you refuse to run?

It dies.

Fear thrives on avoidance. It grows when you hide

from it. But the moment you stare it down, it
crumbles. Like a shadow exposed to light, it has no
substance of its own.

The system doesn’t want you to know this. It relies on

your fear to survive. Because a person without fear is
a person who cannot be controlled.

When you kill fear, you become untouchable.

The System’s Last Trick: Guilt

Fear is only half the trap. The other half is guilt.

If fear fails to stop you, the system whispers another

lie:

“You’re selfish for breaking free.”

“You owe something to your family, your society, your
culture.”
“Who are you to think you deserve more?”
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 13

This is emotional manipulation disguised as morality.

Guilt keeps you in chains by making you feel like a
traitor for wanting freedom.

But let’s break this illusion too: You owe the system
nothing. Not your time, not your energy, not your life.

Your existence is not a debt.

The Liberation of Selfishness

The word “selfish” has been twisted into an insult —

but it’s a weapon you can reclaim. Real selfishness
isn’t about harming others. It’s about having the
courage to prioritize your truth over the system’s
expectations.

Selfishness means saying:

 “My life belongs to me — not society.”

 “My dreams matter more than their

approval.”

 “I choose my path, even if I walk it alone.”

The system calls this arrogance. But the awakened

know it as self-respect.

Becoming Untouchable

To become untouchable, you must undergo one final

transformation:
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 14

You must detach from everything the system uses to

control you — fear, guilt, approval, and even identity.

1. Detach from Fear: Realize that fear is a liar. The

worst-case scenario is never as bad as a life wasted in
chains.

2. Detach from Guilt: Guilt is a weapon to keep you

small. Your life is yours. Full stop.

3. Detach from Approval: Approval is a drug. The

more you crave it, the more powerless you become.
Let go of the need to be liked.

4. Detach from Identity: The labels you were given —

student, employee, citizen, success, failure — are
cages. Who are you beyond those labels?

When you let go of these attachments, the system

loses its grip. You become an anomaly — someone
who can’t be manipulated, frightened, or shamed.

The system fears this version of you. Because an

untouchable person is no longer a pawn — they’re a
force.

The World Beyond the System

What’s left when fear, guilt, and false identity are

gone?

Freedom.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 15

Not the shallow, advertised freedom of the system —

the kind that comes with a price tag. Real freedom.
The kind that no one can give or take away from you.

It’s the freedom to think without limits. To create

without permission. To live without apology.

This freedom is terrifying to those still trapped. They’ll

look at you and see rebellion, danger, even madness.
But you’ll know the truth:

You didn’t rebel. You returned to yourself.

You didn’t break the system. You walked away from

it.

You didn’t go mad. You woke up.

The Awakening is Contagious

The most dangerous thing about an untouchable

person isn’t their freedom — it’s that their freedom is
contagious.

When people see you living without fear, without

guilt, without needing approval, they’ll start to
question their own chains. Your existence will become
a crack in their reality. A crack that, one day, might
shatter it completely.

And that’s the system’s greatest nightmare.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 16

Chapter 4: The Creator

— Building Your Own
Reality
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” —
Peter Drucker

The Illusion of a Ready-Made World

The system sells you a pre-packaged life. A neat,

predictable path laid out like a conveyor belt:

 Get good grades.

 Get a degree.

 Get a job.

 Get married.

 Buy a house.

 Retire.

 Die.

This path isn’t for your happiness — it’s for the

system’s stability. It needs obedient workers,
predictable consumers, and docile citizens. A life
designed by someone else isn’t a life — it’s a program.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 17

But now you’ve broken free. The program is exposed.

And the question hits you: What now?

The answer is both terrifying and exhilarating: Now,

you create.

The Power of Creation

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire
ocean in a drop.” — Rumi

The system convinced you that you’re powerless. That

life happens to you, and your only job is to react.

That was a lie.

You are a creator. Not in the poetic, motivational

sense — in the literal sense. Every belief, every action,
every choice reshapes your reality. When you strip
away the false self, you’re left with raw creative
power.

But creation isn’t easy. It requires unlearning

everything you were taught about what’s possible.

Step 1: Destroy the Old Blueprint

Before you build, you must demolish.

The old blueprint — the system’s version of “success”

— is still lurking in your subconscious. Burn it. Every
trace. Ask yourself:
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 18

 Would I still want this if nobody could see me

achieve it?

 Does this goal excite my soul, or just impress

others?

 Am I chasing this because I want it, or

because I’m afraid of what happens if I don’t?

If your goal is rooted in fear, guilt, or the desire for

approval — it’s not yours. Let it go.

Step 2: Redefine Success

Society defines success by status — job titles, income,

possessions, and popularity. This is a distraction.

Real success is simpler: freedom, purpose, and joy.

 Freedom: The ability to choose how you

spend your time — not trading your life for a
paycheck.

 Purpose: Waking up with a reason beyond

survival. A mission that makes your existence
matter.

 Joy: Not the fleeting high of consumerism, but

the deep satisfaction of living on your terms.

Define success for yourself — or the world will define

it for you.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 19

Step 3: Build Without Permission

The system teaches you to wait for permission:

 Permission to start a business.

 Permission to speak your truth.

 Permission to live differently.

Permission is a myth. No one is coming to validate

you. The moment you stop waiting and start doing so,
you reclaim your power.

Want to start a project? Start it.

Want to pursue a passion? Pursue it.
Want to reinvent yourself? Reinvent.

Stop asking, “Am I allowed to do this?” and start

asking, “Who’s going to stop me?”

Step 4: Create from Zero

You’ve returned to zero — the place beyond fear,

guilt, and false identity. Now, create from that place.

 If money didn’t matter, what would you

build?

 If you weren’t afraid of judgment, what

would you create?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 20

 If you had nothing to lose, who would you

become?

Create like a child — without overthinking, without

seeking approval, without limits. Children don’t build
sandcastles for praise. They build because creation is
its own reward.

Step 5: Embrace the Chaos

Creation is messy. The system teaches you to fear

mistakes — but mistakes are proof you’re doing
something real. Failure isn’t the opposite of success;
it’s part of the process.

The difference between creators and spectators?

Creators keep going.

When the Wright brothers failed, they didn’t stop —

they adjusted the design. When Edison’s lightbulb
failed a thousand times, he didn’t quit — he learned.

The system tells you failure is the end.

Creators know failure is feedback.

The Creator’s Mindset: No One is Coming to Save

You

Here’s the raw truth: No one is coming to save you.

Not the government.

Not your boss.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 21

Not your parents.

Not society.

If you want freedom, you must build it yourself. No

one hands over power — you take it.

This isn’t cruel. It’s liberating. Because when you stop

waiting for a saviour, you realize you never needed
one.

Your Reality, Your Rules

The system wants you to believe reality is fixed. That

life is a script you must follow.

But reality is malleable. People who reshaped the

world — inventors, artists, entrepreneurs,
revolutionaries — weren’t special. They were awake.
They realized the script was optional.

The only difference between you and them is the

decision to create.

So, what will you create?

A business that breaks the Mold?

A career built on passion, not pay checks?
A life so authentic it becomes a rebellion in itself?

The system fears the creator more than anything —

because creators don’t follow rules. They write their
own.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 22

Chapter 5: The
Torchbearer — Leading
the Lost
“Be the light that helps others see.” — Unknown

The Prison of the Mind

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 23

Imagine a group of prisoners chained inside a dark

cave, facing a wall. All they see are shadows projected
by a fire behind them. To them, the shadows are
reality — they know nothing else. This is Plato’s
Allegory of the Cave.

One day, a prisoner breaks free. He stumbles into the

light outside the cave, blinded at first, but eventually
he sees the world as it truly is — vibrant, limitless,
and beautiful. When he returns to the cave to free the
others, they mock him. They’re too afraid to believe
him. The shadows are all they know.

This is the world we live in.

Most people are trapped in their own mental caves —

conditioned to believe the shadows are reality. Their
"truth" is what the system feeds them: a job title, a
pay check, a social status, a life measured by
approval.

You were once one of them.

But now, you’ve broken free. You’ve seen the light.

The question is: will you walk away — or will you
return to help those still chained in darkness?

The Fear of Freedom

Freedom sounds beautiful — but it terrifies those

who’ve never tasted it.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 24

Picture a lion born in a cage. It’s fed every day, safe

from danger. One day, the cage door is left open.
Does the lion run? No. It stays inside. The wild is
unknown, unpredictable. The cage may be prison —
but it’s familiar.

Humans are the same. People cling to the system not

because they love it — but because they fear what
lies beyond it.

That’s why leading the lost isn’t about pushing them.

It’s about awakening them.

Step 1: Plant the Seed of Doubt

The first step isn’t to tell people they’re slaves. They

won’t believe you. Their identity is built on the
system’s lies — attacking that will only make them
defensive.

Instead, plant questions that make them think:

 “Why do you think success is tied to a job

title?”

 “Who taught you that failure is something to

fear?”

 “What would you do if money wasn’t an

issue?”
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 25

The mind rejects force but welcomes curiosity. Plant

the seed, and let it grow.

Step 2: Show, Don’t Tell

People don’t follow words — they follow examples.

Be the living proof that freedom is possible. Show

them what it looks like to live without fear, without
guilt, without needing permission.

 If you quit the job, you hated and built your

own path — they’ll notice.

 If you stop seeking approval and start

speaking your truth — they’ll notice.

 If you live boldly, unapologetically — they’ll

notice.

The system teaches people to obey. Seeing someone

who doesn’t obey but thrives? That’s dangerous.
That’s inspiring.

Step 3: Break the False Promises

The system keeps people loyal with promises:

 “Work hard, and you’ll be successful.”

 “Follow the rules, and you’ll be safe.”

 “Stay in line, and you’ll be happy.”

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 26

Expose the truth: these promises are bait — and the

hook is control.

 People who work hard for others often end

up broke.

 People who follow the rules are replaceable.

 People who chase status end up empty.

The system doesn’t reward loyalty — it exploits it.

Once people see this, the chains loosen.

Step 4: Ignite Their Inner Fire

Freedom is not given. It’s claimed.

Help people remember their own power — the fire

buried beneath fear and conditioning.

 “What did you love before the world told you

who to be?”

 “What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to

do — but never had the courage to try?”

 “Who could you become if nothing held you

back?”

The goal isn’t to make them follow you. The goal is to

make them follow themselves.

Step 5: Prepare for Resistance

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 27

Not everyone wants to be free.

Some will fight to protect their chains — they’ll call

you reckless, selfish, even dangerous. Why? Because
your freedom threatens their illusions.

But a few — a rare, brave few — will hear you. They’ll

see the truth. And once they do, they’ll never unsee
it.

These are the ones you’re fighting for.

The Chain Reaction

Every awakened mind is a spark. And sparks start

wildfires.

When you break free, you inspire others to do the

same. And when they break free, they’ll inspire
others. The system survives on obedience — but all it
takes is enough people who refuse to obey.

You don’t need to save everyone. You just need to

save one.

The rest will follow.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 28

Chapter 6: Becoming
the System’s Nightmare
“The most dangerous man is the one who has nothing
to lose.” — Tupac Shakur

The System’s Greatest Fear

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 29

The system doesn’t fear protests, revolutions, or

rebellion. It expects those — and knows how to crush
them.

What it truly fears is the awakened individual —

someone who no longer needs the system at all.

Why? Because a person who doesn’t need the system

can’t be controlled.

 You can’t be bribed with money when you

define your own success.

 You can’t be blackmailed with fear when

you’re no longer afraid of failure or judgment.

 You can’t be manipulated with approval when

you no longer seek permission to exist.

You become unpredictable. Unstoppable. A walking

glitch in their program.

It’s time to stop playing defence and start playing

offense.

The Weapon of the Unstoppable Mind

The system’s control is rooted in one thing: fear.

 Fear of poverty keeps you at a job you hate.

 Fear of judgment keeps you quiet.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 30

 Fear of failure keeps you from trying.

The system is powerless against someone who no

longer fears these things.

So, how do you become that person? You must

dismantle fear from the inside out.

Step 1: Embrace the Worst-Case Scenario

Fear thrives on uncertainty. The unknown terrifies the

mind. But what happens when you stop running from
the worst-case scenario — and face it head-on?

Ask yourself:

 “What if I fail and lose everything?” — You’ll

start over, wiser and stronger.

 “What if they judge me?” — Their opinions

don’t pay your bills.

 “What if I’m wrong?” — You’ll learn, adapt,

and try again.

Fear dies the moment you stop avoiding it. Once you
embrace the worst-case scenario, you realize it’s
survivable — and that makes you untouchable.

Step 2: Stop Playing by Their Rules

The system’s rules were never designed for your

success — they were designed for its survival.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 31

Break them.

 They say you need a degree? Build skills

instead.

 They say you need a 9-to-5 job? Create your

own income.

 They say you need to follow the safe path?

Define your own path.

The moment you stop playing by their rules, you

become a rogue variable — a wild card they can’t
predict or control.

Step 3: Own Your Identity

The system gave you a label — student, employee,

citizen — to keep you small and manageable.

Rip it off.

You are not your job. You are not your past. You are
not your mistakes. You are a creator, a force of
nature, a mind capable of reshaping reality.

The system’s nightmare isn’t a crowd of rebels — it’s

an individual who has awakened to their true identity.

Step 4: Become Self-Sufficient

The system keeps you dependent — on employers,

institutions, and validation.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 32

Take that power back.

 Learn to make money without a boss.

 Build skills that make you valuable in any

environment.

 Master your mind so you no longer crave

external approval.

The less you need from the system, the less it can
control you.

Step 5: Turn Pain into Power

The system wants you to believe that pain, failure,

and rejection are signs you should quit.

That’s another lie.

Pain is fuel. Every setback, every loss, every betrayal

— it’s all raw energy waiting to be converted into
power.

 They laughed at you? Let that sharpen your

focus.

 Did they doubt you? Let that harden your

resolve.

 They tried to break you? Let that forge your

strength.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 33

The system fears people who turn pain into power —

because those people are impossible to break.

Step 6: Become the Hunter, Not the Hunted

Most people spend their lives running — from fear,

from failure, from the system’s judgment.

Stop running. Turn around.

 Chase what scares you.

 Attack what holds you back.

 Confront the lies head-on.

When the system realizes you’re no longer prey —

that you’ve become the hunter — it panics. Because
hunters create their own rules.

The System Can’t Stop an Idea Whose Time Has

Come

The truth is, the system is already cracking. It’s slow,

outdated, and terrifying of the individuals waking up.

Every awakened mind is a virus to the system — a

glitch that spreads. One turns into ten. Ten turns into
thousands. And soon, the system is overwhelmed.

You are not just one person. You are a spark in a

forest ready to burn.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 34

The system can silence a person — but it can’t stop an

idea whose time has come.

Chapter 7: Building the

New World
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” —
Peter Drucker

From Ashes to Blueprints

The old world was built on lies — and you’ve watched

it burn.

But what now? Freedom isn’t enough. Being free

without a vision is like escaping a prison only to
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 35

wander in the desert. We can’t stop at destruction —

we must create.

It’s time to build a new world — one that serves

humanity, not the system.

But how do you build a world from nothing?

You start the way all great creators do — by imagining

the impossible.

Step 1: Dare to Imagine the Impossible

Every great civilization, every technological marvel,

every revolutionary idea was once mocked as
impossible.

 The Wright brothers were told humans would

never fly. Now, planes carry millions every
day.

 Nikola Tesla dreamed of wireless electricity in

a world that barely understood wired power.
Today, Wi-Fi connects the world.

 Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned a world

where people were judged by their character,
not their colour — and shook the foundations
of an entire nation.

The system teaches you to think practically, to be

realistic, to know your limits.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 36

Ignore that.

The new world begins with those brave enough to

imagine what doesn’t exist yet.

Close your eyes and ask yourself: “What would the

world look like if fear, greed, and control no longer
ruled it?”

Let your mind run wild. Imagine a world where:

 People chase purpose, not pay checks.

 Education awakens minds instead of

moulding them.

 Technology serves humanity, not

corporations.

 Compassion fuels leadership, not power.

The system calls this utopian nonsense. But the

system’s greatest fear is that you might actually build
it.

Step 2: Become the Architect of Your Own Reality

The truth they never taught you? You are not a

prisoner of the world — you are the architect.

Most people live in a reality designed for them by

others. Their beliefs, habits, and even desires are
programmed by the system.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 37

But architects don’t live in someone else’s blueprint

— they create their own.

Ask yourself:

 “What kind of life do I want to live — not the

life I was told to want?”

 “What kind of work excites me — not what

pays the most?”

 “What values do I live by — not what society

says is right?”

The new world starts when individuals design their

own reality — and stop living someone else’s.

Step 3: Rebuild the Foundations of Power

The old world is built on power concentrated in the

hands of a few — governments, corporations,
institutions.

The new world distributes power to the many — to

the people.

 Decentralized knowledge: No more

gatekeepers deciding who gets access to
education and information. Knowledge must
flow freely.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 38

 Decentralized wealth: Break the chains of the

traditional job market. Create systems where
individuals generate value on their own
terms.

 Decentralized leadership: Leaders shouldn’t

rise through manipulation or money — they
should emerge from wisdom, compassion,
and vision.

Power doesn’t belong to the few. It belongs to the

creators, the thinkers, the rebels — it belongs to you.

Step 4: Build Without Permission

The system wants you to believe you need permission

— from society, from authorities, from institutions —
to create something new.

You don’t.

 You don’t need permission to start a

movement.

 You don’t need permission to build a

business that challenges the old ways.

 You don’t need permission to invent, create,

lead, or inspire.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 39

The greatest builders in history never asked for

permission. They saw what the world lacked — and
they built it themselves.

The system’s power vanishes the moment you realize

you were free all along.

Step 5: Inspire Others to Build

A single spark doesn’t create a wildfire — but a

thousand sparks do.

The new world isn’t built by one person. It’s built

when millions wake up and realize they can build too.

Be the spark for someone else.

 Share your ideas openly — don’t hoard them.

 Lift others as you rise — a true leader creates

more leaders.

 Show, don’t tell — let your life be proof that

the old world isn’t the only way.

The most powerful revolutions start when ordinary

people realize they can create extraordinary change.

The New World Awaits

The old world is dying. Let it.

The new world is waiting — but it won’t build itself.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 40

It’s time to stop waiting for permission.

It’s time to stop hoping for change.
It’s time to create the world they told you was
impossible.

The question now is no longer “What if?”

The question is: “What’s next?”

Chapter 8: The True

Vision of Life — Beyond
the Illusion of Success
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” —
Mahatma Gandhi

The Mirage of Success

From the moment you could understand language,

the world sold you an illusion — that success is
money, status, and power. They made you believe
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 41

that a bigger house, a faster car, a fancier title equals

a better life.

But have you ever stopped to ask — Why do the

richest people often feel the emptiest? Why do
powerful leaders crave more power even after having
everything? Why do celebrities with millions of fans
still fall into depression?

It’s because they chased the illusion of success, not

the truth of fulfillment.

True success is not what you have — it’s who you

become.

Mahatma Gandhi once laid out Seven Social Sins — a

guide to what destroys society and individual souls.
Let’s break them down and discover how they apply
to your life, and how living beyond these sins shapes
you into a true leader.

1. Wealth Without Work

The system glorifies easy money — quick schemes,

shortcuts, overnight success. Social media flaunts
luxury cars, designer clothes, and private jets, often
without showing the work behind them.

But wealth without effort is hollow. It breeds

entitlement and corruption.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 42

Example: Lottery winners often end up bankrupt or

miserable within a few years. They gained wealth but
lacked the mindset to sustain it. Contrast this with
Elon Musk or Steve Jobs — who built empires from
nothing, working day and night on their visions.

The Lesson: Wealth isn’t evil — but how you earn it

defines whether it strengthens or corrupts you. True
wealth is built on value, innovation, and service.

2. Pleasure Without Conscience

Modern society worships pleasure — instant

gratification, endless entertainment, indulgence
without limits.

But pleasure without moral grounding leads to

addiction, emptiness, and destruction.

Example: Look at Rome’s fall — an empire that once

ruled the world crumbled because it gave in to
indulgence and excess. The pursuit of pleasure
blinded leaders to the rot within their society.

The Lesson: Enjoy life’s pleasures — but never at the

expense of your values, your people, or your integrity.

3. Knowledge Without Character

We live in an age of unlimited information. You can

learn anything in seconds.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 43

But knowledge without moral character is dangerous.

It creates manipulators, tyrants, and people who
weaponize intelligence to control others.

Example: Hitler was brilliant — a master strategist

and communicator. But his lack of empathy and
humanity turned that knowledge into a tool for
genocide.

The Lesson: Intelligence must be tempered by

empathy and wisdom. A brilliant mind with a wicked
heart is a ticking time bomb.

4. Commerce Without Morality

The system rewards profits — no matter the cost.

Companies exploit workers, destroy nature, and
deceive customers in the name of “business.”

Example: Fast fashion brands rake in billions while

underpaying laborers in sweatshops. Meanwhile,
companies like Patagonia thrive by prioritizing ethics
— paying fair wages, using sustainable materials, and
protecting the environment.

The Lesson: Business isn’t about squeezing maximum

profit — it’s about creating value while staying true to
moral principles.

5. Science Without Humanity

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 44

Technology evolves faster than ever — but at what

cost? AI, genetic engineering, nuclear power — all
powerful tools, but deadly without ethical control.

Example: The creation of the atomic bomb was a

scientific triumph — yet it led to unimaginable
destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The Lesson: Science must serve humanity, not

overpower it. Progress without compassion is
regression.

6. Worship Without Sacrifice

People pray, chant, and follow rituals — but forget

the core of spirituality: selflessness and service.

Example: Gandhi fasted for peace. Mother Teresa left

comfort to serve the poor. Meanwhile, many today
worship for appearances, not inner transformation.

The Lesson: True spirituality isn’t about rituals — it’s

about sacrificing ego, greed, and hatred to serve
humanity.

7. Politics Without Principle

Power attracts the wrong people — those who crave

control, not those who seek to serve.

Example: Nelson Mandela endured 27 years in prison

but emerged with forgiveness, not vengeance —
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 45

leading South Africa to democracy. He stood by his

principles, even when it cost him everything.

The Lesson: True leadership isn’t about popularity —

it’s about standing for what’s right, even when it’s
hard.

The Blueprint for a Perfect Life

A perfect life isn’t perfect. It’s filled with challenges,

pain, and failures. But it’s a life driven by purpose, not
illusion.

 Define your values — and never compromise

them.

 Create more than you consume.

 Serve others — because fulfilment grows

when shared.

 Lead with integrity, even when no one’s

watching.

 Pursue growth, not comfort.

A great leader isn’t the loudest or the richest. A great

leader is the one who lights the path for others —
even when walking through darkness themselves.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 46

“Your beliefs become your thoughts,

Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your values,
Your values become your destiny.” — Mahatma
Gandhi

Chapter 9: The Rise of

the Conscious Rebel
“The mind that opens to a new idea never returns to
its original size.” — Albert Einstein

The world doesn’t need more followers. It needs

thinkers, builders, and rebels — people who refuse to
live under the weight of old, broken systems. By now,
you’ve stripped away the false identities forced upon
you. But shedding the past isn’t enough. You must rise
from the ashes of conditioning — not just as a free
person, but as a conscious rebel.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 47

What is a Conscious Rebel?

A rebel without purpose is just noise. But a conscious

rebel is different — they think deeply, act wisely, and
break the right rules. They don’t rebel for rebellion’s
sake; they rebel against ignorance, injustice, and
falsehood.

Ask yourself:

 Why do you believe what you believe?

 Are your goals truly yours, or were they

planted by society?

 If success wasn’t measured by money or

status, what would you pursue?

The conscious rebel challenges these questions — and

seeks answers.

The System Thrives on Your Fear

The system doesn’t actually need your obedience. It

needs your fear. Fear keeps you from asking the right
questions. It keeps you glued to paths you never
chose.

Example: Consider Galileo Galilei — condemned for

proving the Earth revolves around the sun. The world
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 48

wasn’t afraid of his science; they were afraid of losing

the lies they clung to. Galileo wasn’t a rebel because
he defied the church — he was a rebel because he
refused to let fear silence the truth.

The Lesson: Fear isn’t a sign to stop — it’s a signal

you’re on the edge of something revolutionary.

Break the Chains of Approval

The greatest illusion society ever created is that you

need its approval to be worthy.

Example: Vincent Van Gogh sold only one painting in

his lifetime. He died poor, mocked, and
misunderstood. Today, his art is priceless. Van Gogh
wasn’t a failure — the world simply wasn’t ready for
him. Imagine if he had stopped painting because
society called him “mad.”

The Lesson: The crowd is often wrong. Don’t let its

noise define your value.

The Philosophy of Rebellion

History’s greatest thinkers weren’t obedient. They

weren’t afraid to challenge dogma.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 49

 Socrates questioned Athens’ beliefs and was

sentenced to death — but his ideas shaped
Western philosophy.

 Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat —

and sparked the Civil Rights Movement.

 Nikola Tesla rejected mainstream science and

was ridiculed — yet his inventions power the
modern world.

What would have happened if they chose comfort

over conviction? The world doesn’t need more
spectators. It needs more Tesla, more Parks, more
Socrates — and perhaps, more you.

Rebuild Your Mindset: The Rebel’s Creed

1. Question Everything:
Don’t accept beliefs because they’re popular.
Test them. Break them. Keep only what
stands.

2. Embrace Discomfort:
Growth is painful. Comfort zones are death
traps disguised as safe spaces.

3. Think Long-Term:
The crowd chases instant rewards. Rebels
build legacies that outlast them.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 50

4. Don’t Fear Solitude:

Every rebel walks alone at some point.
Solitude isn’t loneliness — it’s the forge
where you find your true self.

5. Lead by Example:
A conscious rebel doesn’t tell people to wake
up. They wake up first — and their light
becomes a beacon for others.

The Final Call: Will You Rise?

At this point, the choice is yours.

You can return to the crowd — safe, silent,

forgettable.
Or you can rise — uncertain, challenged, but truly
alive.

The world doesn’t change when millions obey. It

changes when one person stands up and says, “This is
wrong.”

Will you be that person?

“The ones who are crazy enough to think they can

change the world are the ones who do.” — Rob
Siltanen
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 51

The path from zero to infinity has begun — and the

world awaits your rebellion.

Chapter 10: Building a

Life of Purpose
“He who has a way to live can bear almost any how.”
— Friedrich Nietzsche

A life without purpose is like a ship without a captain

— drifting aimlessly. Success, money, fame — these
are side effects, not destinations. The real journey
starts when you stop asking, “What can I get from
life?” and start asking, “What can I give to life?”

Why Most People Never Find Their Purpose

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 52

The truth is unsettling: most people never find their

purpose because they never stop to look. They’re too
busy chasing shadows — jobs, social validation,
fleeting pleasures — mistaking movement for
progress.

Example: Picture a man climbing a ladder, only to

realize it’s leaning against the wrong wall. He reached
the top, but what did he actually achieve? More
money? More status? Emptiness disguised as
success?

The Lesson: Purpose isn’t about chasing — it’s about

creating. It’s about building something that outlives
you.

How to Discover Your Purpose

Finding your purpose isn’t a one-time event. It’s a

relentless process of questioning, failing, and
evolving. Here’s a map:

1. Identify Your Core Values:

What principles are non-negotiable to you?
Honesty? Freedom? Compassion? Your values
are the compass that directs your purpose.

2. Find What Angers You:

Purpose isn’t always born from passion —
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 53

sometimes it’s born from outrage. What

injustice makes your blood boil? What broken
part of the world do you feel compelled to
fix?

3. Ask: What Would I Do If I Knew I Couldn’t

Fail?
Strip away the fear of failure and imagine
your boldest self. That version of you holds
the blueprint to your purpose.

4. Look at Your Natural Talents:

What are you effortlessly good at? Often,
your gifts align with your purpose.

5. Serve Something Bigger Than Yourself:

True purpose isn’t selfish. It uplifts others — a
family, a community, even humanity itself.

The Philosophies of Purpose

Different thinkers, different eras — yet they converge

on a singular truth: life’s meaning isn’t given, it’s
created.

 Stoicism — Purpose is found in virtue: living

with courage, wisdom, justice, and self-
control.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 54

 Existentialism — Life has no pre-assigned

meaning; we must forge our own.

 Buddhism — Purpose is found by ending

suffering — both our own and others’.

 Ikigai (Japanese philosophy) — Purpose lies at

the intersection of what you love, what you’re
good at, what the world needs, and what you
can be paid for.

Example: Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, endured

unimaginable suffering. His conclusion? Those who
survived weren’t the strongest or healthiest — they
were the ones with a clear sense of purpose, a reason
to keep living.

Choose your philosophy, but let purpose guide your

every action.

Purpose Over Pleasure: The Hidden Reward

The world glorifies pleasure — quick hits of dopamine

from likes, views, and temporary highs. Purpose is
harder. It demands sacrifice. But it gives something
pleasure never can: fulfilment.

Example: Elon Musk didn’t create SpaceX to make

billions — he wanted to make humanity a multi-
planetary species. The Wright brothers didn’t invent
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 55

flight for fame — they dreamed of breaking

humanity’s limits.

The Lesson: Pleasure fades. Purpose fuels you for a

lifetime.

Chapter 11: Zero to

Infinity — Becoming
the Light
“The one who conquers himself is greater than he
who conquers a thousand men in battle.” — Buddha

This is the final transformation — from seeker to

leader, from follower to light. It’s time to stop
searching and start becoming.

The World Doesn’t Need More Leaders — It Needs

More Lights
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 56

A true leader isn’t someone who commands. It’s

someone who illuminates — someone who inspires
others to awaken.

Example: Mahatma Gandhi didn’t lead with force —

he led with moral clarity. He didn’t say, “Follow me.”
He said, “Be the change.” The people followed his
light.

The Lesson: Leadership isn’t about power — it’s

about responsibility.

The Five Pillars of Becoming the Light

1. Self-Mastery:
Before you can change the world, you must
master yourself. Your thoughts, habits, and
emotions must obey you — not control you.

2. Radical Integrity:
In a world drowning in lies, truth is
revolutionary. Speak it. Live it. Even when it’s
uncomfortable.

3. Relentless Compassion:
Strength without compassion creates tyrants.
Compassion without strength creates victims.
The balance makes you unstoppable.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 57

4. Fearless Action:
Knowing what’s right isn’t enough. Do it —
even when you’re scared, especially when
you’re scared.

5. Legacy Thinking:
Every action plant a seed. Will your seeds
grow forests… or weeds?

The Final Truth: You Are the Revolution

The system won’t fix itself. The crowd won’t wake up

on its own. But you — you now hold the knowledge,
the understanding, and the fire to spark change.

This book wasn’t meant to inspire you. It was meant

to awaken you.

Example: Imagine standing on your deathbed. Will

you look back with regret — or pride? The answer
depends on what you do next.

The Lesson: Don’t wait for permission to live fully. The

world needs you now — not someday.

“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly

are.” — Carl Jung

Now go. Create. Lead. Become infinity.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 58

Part -2 Content
 The Dirty Game of Politics

 Humanity Above All

 Making Life Meaningful

 The True Purpose of Life: A Journey

Within

 The Education System: From Factories

of Obedience to Foundries of Humanity
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 59

 Build a legacy, not just a resume

 The Best Way to Predict the Future of a

Nation is by Looking at Its Youth

 The Choice: The Unseen Power Shaping

Your Life

 Togetherness: The Power of Unity

 Clarity: The Foundation of Peak

Performance

 Civic Sense: The Backbone of a Thriving

Society

The Dirty Game of

Politics
They divide us — and we let them.

We argue over religion, caste, and politics like

puppets, while they pull the strings from behind
their velvet curtains. Where did our logic go?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 60

Where did our courage hide? The truth is bitter

— we’ve been conditioned to live like slaves,
fooled into believing that obedience is patriotism
and silence is wisdom.

Our leaders — old men with old minds — sit

comfortably on thrones built from our hard-
earned money. They promised us education,
jobs, healthcare, justice, safety — but delivered
only speeches and scandals. Their lives will end
soon, but the chaos they leave behind will be
ours to inherit.

Meanwhile, what are we doing? Scrolling

endlessly, lost in reels and distractions, watching
life pass us by. We — the youth — were meant to
be the fire that forges a new nation. Instead,
we’re flickering embers, hypnotized by screens,
blind to the power we hold.

It’s time to stop waiting for someone else to fix

this broken system. No messiah is coming. No
leader will save us. We are the leaders we’ve
been waiting for.

Why the Youth Must Take Over

Politics — once meant to serve the people — has

mutated into a theatre of deception. Those in
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 61

power no longer lead; they manipulate. The

politicians we see today are not visionaries, but
performers — selling dreams and delivering
despair. They divide us into castes, religions, and
economic classes, not for unity, but for control.
They dangle bait in the form of free electricity,
rations, and petty pensions — breadcrumbs to
keep us satisfied, distracted, and obedient.

But what do we get in return? Broken promises,

crumbling infrastructure, skyrocketing
unemployment, and a future mortgaged to
corruption. Why? Because the ones making the
decisions are relics of a bygone era —
disconnected from the realities we face today.

The Age of Misrepresentation

In a world driven by innovation and youthful

energy, how can leaders in their 70s, 80s, or even
90s possibly represent the dreams and struggles
of a generation they don’t understand? Why is it
that we have a minimum age to contest
elections, but no maximum age to step down? A
20-year-old can't lead, but an 80-year-old can?

“Age is no guarantee of wisdom, and youth is no

guarantee of ignorance.” — a truth we must
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 62

embrace. The youth, with fresh perspectives and

boundless energy, should be at the forefront of
change — not sidelined as mere voters.

We’re told we’re too young, too inexperienced to

lead — yet we’re old enough to fight wars, pay
taxes, and inherit the debt created by these so-
called leaders. If we’re trusted to die for our
country, why are we not trusted to govern it?

Philosophy of Politics — What It Should Be, and

What It’s Become

Politics, as envisioned by great thinkers like

Aristotle and Plato, was meant to be an
instrument of justice, a mechanism to ensure the
well-being of the people. Plato spoke of
philosopher-kings — rulers who govern not for
personal gain, but for the collective good. Today,
we have the opposite: career politicians who
treat power as a family heirloom.

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to

find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of
others.” But modern politicians seem to have
rewritten this to: “The best way to secure power
is to serve your own interests.”
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 63

We, the youth, must reclaim politics — not as a

dirty word, but as a noble pursuit. We must rise,
not to rule, but to lead with integrity.

Why Are We Still a "Developing" Country?

Decade after decade, the same speeches echo —

"India is a developing nation." Why? With a
population of over 1.4 billion, rich in resources,
talent, and ambition, what’s holding us back?

The answer is simple: corruption and outdated

leadership.

How can we progress when our leaders prioritize

votes over vision? When development plans are
buried beneath red tape and greed? When public
money fuels personal empires rather than
national growth? A country isn’t poor when it
lacks resources — it’s poor when those resources
are stolen by those who were meant to protect
them.

The Role of Youth in Politics — A Revolution

Waiting to Ignite

We are not just the future. We are the present.

Climate change, unemployment, education
reform, healthcare — these aren’t issues for
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 64

tomorrow. They’re crises now, and they demand

voices that refuse to be silenced.

Young people across the world have proven their

power. Greta Thunberg shook world leaders on
climate change. Malala Yousafzai defied
oppression to fight for education. Why are we
waiting for heroes when we could become them?

We have the technology, the global connections,

and the passion to reshape politics. But first, we
must shed the apathy that’s been programmed
into us. We must stop voting for freebies and
start voting for change. Free rations, pensions,
and handouts are not solutions — they’re traps.
They keep us dependent and powerless.

A vote is not a transaction; it’s a responsibility.

It’s not about who gives you the most today —
it’s about who builds a better tomorrow.

The Battle Cry: From Slaves to Leaders

We’ve been slaves to a corrupt system for too

long. It’s time to stop complaining and start
acting. If they won’t give us a seat at the table —
we’ll build a new table. If they won’t listen —
we’ll speak louder. If they won’t step aside —
we’ll push forward.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 65

This isn’t just a call for political involvement. It’s a

call for a revolution of the mind. To think. To
question. To break free from the illusion that we
are powerless.

Because we are not. We are the force that can

reshape nations. The only question left is — Will
you be part of the revolution, or will you let
history repeat itself?

The reins of this nation belong in our hands.

The future belongs to those who dare to take it.

Will you be a slave — or will you rise?

The choice is yours.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 66

Humanity Above All

Look around. What do you see?
A world divided—not by walls of stone but by
walls of the mind. Walls built on the fragile
foundations of religion, caste, race, and
nationality. We fight, argue, and even shed blood
over identities that were meant to guide us, not
divide us. And while we remain busy in these
petty battles, those in power tighten their grip,
smiling as we unknowingly play into their hands.

Is this what humanity has come to?

The Forgotten Truth: We Are One

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 67

Long before religions were established and

borders were drawn, we were simply human. The
first breath a child takes does not carry the stamp
of religion or caste. The heart that beats within
each of us does not pump blood based on
nationality or sect. Pain feels the same, whether
you're Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, or atheist.
Joy lights up faces regardless of caste or creed.

So, if our birth and emotions are universal, why

should our lives be any different?

The truth is stark and simple: Our first and

foremost religion is humanity.
Every other identity comes second.

Divided We Fall: Who Truly Benefits?

Think of history—the British divide and rule

strategy. They didn’t conquer nations by strength
alone but by exploiting divisions among people.
Sadly, the British are gone, but the strategy
remains. Only now, it’s our own politicians and
power-seekers pulling the strings.

They ignite the fire of division, and we, like dry

leaves, catch the flames without questioning.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 68

They throw slogans, manipulate emotions, and

distort facts. And while we burn bridges with
each other, they build their empires.

Who suffers? We do.

Who benefits? They do.

It’s tragic how easily we fall for the same trap,

generation after generation, despite the lessons
of history.

Education Without Wisdom Is Useless

We often believe that education will liberate us

from ignorance. But what good is education if it
doesn’t teach us empathy? What is the value of
intelligence if it fuels pride rather than
compassion?

The most educated among us hold the greatest

responsibility. It is not enough to secure degrees,
earn wealth, and live in comfort. True education
demands action—action against injustice,
ignorance, and division.

If the educated remain silent while society tears

itself apart, they become accomplices in the
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 69

crime. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said:

"The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and
cruelty by the bad people but the silence over
that by the good people."

Humanity: The Only Religion That Truly Matters

Imagine a world where religion and caste do not

define us.
A world where a hungry child is fed without
asking their background.
Where a person in need receives help, no
questions asked.
Where love, kindness, and understanding form
the core of every interaction.

It’s not a utopian dream—it’s entirely possible if

we prioritize our shared humanity. Every religion,
at its core, teaches compassion and brotherhood.
Yet, we cling to superficial differences, forgetting
the universal message:

 Hinduism: "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" –

The world is one family.

 Islam: "To save one life is to save all of

humanity."
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 70

 Christianity: "Love thy neighbor as

thyself."

 Sikhism: "Recognize the entire human

race as one."

 Buddhism: "Treat not others in ways that

you yourself would find hurtful."

If every faith preaches unity, why do its followers

practice division?

A Plea for Change: Rise Above the Lies

It’s time we ask ourselves:

 Will I allow someone else to dictate whom

I should love or hate?

 Will I judge a person by their character or

their caste?

 Will I stand by while my community is

manipulated into division?

We must rise above the noise, question the

narratives fed to us, and reject the politics of
hatred. It starts with you—with one
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 71

conversation, one act of kindness, one refusal to

participate in divisive rhetoric.

Be the Change You Wish to See

Every great change in history began with

individuals who refused to conform to ignorance.

 When Rosa Parks refused to give up her

seat, she sparked the civil rights
movement.

 When Mahatma Gandhi chose non-

violence, he awakened a nation.

 When Malala Yousafzai stood for

education, she inspired millions.

Change does not come from complaining about

society. It comes from becoming the example
society needs.

Be the person who bridges gaps, not one who

widens them. Speak up when you witness
discrimination. Teach children that no caste or
religion defines worth. Choose love over hate,
unity over division, and humanity over politics.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 72

A Vision for the Future: One Humanity, One

World

Imagine a future where children aren’t taught to

identify first by religion but by their shared
humanity.
Where leaders are chosen for their integrity, not
their ability to exploit divisions.
Where people unite not against each other but
against poverty, injustice, and inequality.

This future is not a fantasy—it’s a choice. A

choice we can make every single day.

So, ask yourself:

 Will I continue the cycle of division?

 Or will I break free, embrace humanity,

and inspire others to do the same?

Because in the end, we won’t be remembered by

our religion or caste but by the love we gave, the
lives we touched, and the bridges we built.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 73

Let us not be remembered as the generation that

fought among ourselves.
Let us be remembered as the generation that
chose humanity.

Because when the power lies within you. Every

word you speak, every action you take, either
fuels division or fosters unity. Choose wdust
settles, when borders fade and identities
dissolve, only one truth remains:

We are human. And that is enough.

Making Life Meaningful

"A life lived for others is a life worthwhile." –
Albert Einstein

This simple yet profound statement captures the

essence of a meaningful life. In a world often
obsessed with personal achievement, wealth,
and recognition, it's easy to get trapped in the
cycle of self-centred pursuits. Yet, when the
applause fades and the possessions lose their
charm, one question lingers: "Did my life
matter?"
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 74

The answer lies not in what we accumulate but in

how we uplift others. True fulfilment comes
when we transcend the narrow confines of the
self and embrace the interconnectedness of all
beings. Let’s explore how living for others gives
life its deepest meaning.

Why Self-Centered Success Feels Hollow

Many chases success, believing it will bring

happiness. They climb corporate ladders, amass
wealth, and collect accolades, only to find an
unsettling emptiness at the top. Why? Because
self-centred achievements rarely nourish the
soul.

Example: Howard Hughes, one of the wealthiest

men of his time, died isolated and miserable
despite his fortune. His riches couldn’t replace
the connection and purpose he lacked.

Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre captured this

existential void perfectly:
"Man is nothing else but what he makes of
himself."
If we build a life solely around self-interest, it
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 75

collapses under its own weight. Only when we

contribute to others do we find true significance.

The Paradox of Happiness: Giving Is Receiving

Interestingly, the more we give, the richer we

feel. Modern psychology supports what ancient
wisdom always taught: altruism enhances well-
being. Helping others releases oxytocin, the "love
hormone," while reducing stress and boosting
happiness.

Example: Studies show that volunteers live

longer, healthier lives. Their generosity not only
benefits others but also enriches their own
existence.

As the Dalai Lama wisely said:

"If you want others to be happy, practice
compassion. If you want to be happy, practice
compassion."

Thus, serving others isn’t self-sacrifice—it’s self-

fulfilment.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 76

Living for others doesn’t always mean grand

gestures. Small acts of kindness can transform
lives, creating ripples that extend far beyond
what we see.

 A teacher encouraging a struggling

student can ignite lifelong confidence.

 A stranger’s smile can brighten someone's

dark day.

 A listening ear can ease the weight of

silent suffering.

Example: Think of Mother Teresa, who didn’t

eradicate poverty but changed countless lives
through simple acts of love. She believed:
"Not all of us can do great things. But we can do
small things with great love."

Even the tiniest act of selflessness plants seeds of

hope in the world.

Why Living for Others Creates Meaning

Living for others gives life structure, direction,

and emotional depth. It aligns us with something
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 77

greater than fleeting pleasures. Here’s why it

matters:

 Connection: Human beings are wired for

connection. When we help others, we
reinforce the bonds that make life rich
and resilient.

 Purpose: Knowing your actions ease

someone’s burden gives life clarity and
motivation.

 Legacy: Material possessions fade, but the

lives we touch form an eternal legacy.

Example: Think of Mahatma Gandhi. He didn’t

seek personal glory but fought for India’s
freedom through non-violence. His impact
transcended generations, proving that service
outlives the self.

Overcoming the Ego: The Spiritual Shift

To live for others, one must confront the ego—

the voice that demands attention, superiority,
and control.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 78

The ego thrives on separation: "Me vs. Them."

But the heart understands unity: "We are one."

Philosopher Kahlil Gibran beautifully wrote:

"You give but little when you give of your
possessions. It is when you give of yourself that
you truly give."

This spiritual shift—from "What can I take?" to

"What can I give?"—unlocks profound peace. It’s
not about denying yourself but expanding your
sense of self to include others.

Practical Ways to Live for Others

Living selflessly doesn’t mean abandoning your

dreams or well-being. It means integrating
service into daily life:

1. Practice Active Listening: Often, people

don’t need advice—they need to feel
heard.

2. Share Your Skills: Whether it’s teaching,

mentoring, or creating, your talents can
uplift others.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 79

3. Be Kind Daily: A smile, a thank-you, or a

helping hand can transform someone’s
day.

4. Support Causes You Care About:

Volunteer, donate, or advocate for issues
close to your heart.

5. Be Present for Loved Ones: Time and

attention are the most precious gifts.

The Ultimate Realization: We Are All Connected

At its core, living for others reflects a deeper

truth: we are not separate. The joy or pain of one
affects the whole. Ancient spiritual traditions
emphasize this unity:

 Hinduism: “Atman (self) is Brahman

(universal spirit).”

 Buddhism: “When you see others as

yourself, compassion arises naturally.”

 Christianity: “Love thy neighbor as

thyself.”
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 80

Even modern science, through quantum physics,

hints at an interconnected universe. Thus, serving
others is not charity—it’s self-realization.

What Truly Matters at the End?

Imagine you're at the end of your life, reflecting

on your journey. Will you measure success by the
wealth you amassed or the lives you touched?

As poet Maya Angelou said:

"I've learned that people will forget what you
said, people will forget what you did, but people
will never forget how you made them feel."

In the final moments, what brings peace isn’t

personal gain but knowing you made the world a
little brighter for someone else.

Conclusion: The Beauty of a Shared Life

Ultimately, life finds meaning not in isolation but

in connection. By living for others, we escape the
prison of the ego and embrace the vastness of
shared humanity.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 81

To paraphrase Einstein’s wisdom: “Only a life

lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

Not because we must sacrifice ourselves, but

because in lifting others, we rise together. In
giving, we receive. In serving, we find peace. And
in loving, we become whole.

So, ask yourself: What legacy of kindness will I

leave behind? Because at the end of the journey,
that's all that truly matters.

The True Purpose of

Life: A Journey Within
Have you ever paused amid the chaos of life and
asked yourself, "Why am I here?" It’s a question
that has haunted the minds of poets,
philosophers, and common people alike. We
chase success, love, recognition, and material
comforts, only to realize that fulfilment often
remains elusive. Why? Because purpose isn’t
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 82

found in the external world—it’s discovered

within.

The Myth of External Purpose

Society conditions us to believe that purpose lies

in achieving milestones—earning a degree,
securing a high-paying job, getting married, or
buying a house. While these accomplishments
bring temporary satisfaction, they rarely lead to
lasting contentment.

Take the example of Robin Williams, a man who

made the world laugh while battling his own
inner turmoil. Despite fame and fortune,
something profound was missing. His story
reminds us that external achievements can't fill
an internal void.

As the Bhagavad Gita wisely states:

"You have the right to perform your duties, but
you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions."
This suggests that true purpose comes from the
journey itself, not the destination.

Turning Inward: The Real Quest Begins

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 83

Finding purpose is less about what you do and

more about who you become. It requires
introspection, self-awareness, and a willingness
to confront your deepest fears and desires.
Here’s how you can embark on this
transformative journey:

A. Listen to Your Inner Voice

In the silence of solitude, the mind settles, and

the heart speaks. Start by asking yourself:

 What makes me lose track of time?

 What would I do even if I weren't paid for

it?

 What kind of impact do I want to leave

behind?

Example: Steve Jobs once said: "Have the

courage to follow your heart and intuition. They
somehow already know what you truly want to
become." His passion for innovation shaped not
just his life but the world itself.

B. Embrace the Power of Service

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 84

Purpose often reveals itself when we transcend

self-interest and contribute to something larger
than ourselves. The most fulfilled individuals are
those who uplift others.

Example: Mother Teresa didn’t find her purpose

in comfort but in serving the poor. Her life
exemplifies how purpose flourishes when we
shift from "What can I gain?" to "How can I
give?"

C. Accept Impermanence and Live Authentically

Many searches for purpose as though it's a fixed

destination. But life is fluid, and so is purpose.
What matters at 20 may not matter at 40.
Embrace change and align your life with your
evolving values.

The Buddha taught:

"The trouble is, you think you have time."
This profound truth reminds us to live
authentically, without waiting for the "perfect
moment."
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 85

What Truly Matters at the End?

Imagine you're at the twilight of your life. Will

you measure success by the wealth you
accumulated, the accolades you received, or the
followers you gained? Or will it be the lives you
touched, the love you shared, and the peace you
found within?

Bronnie Ware, a nurse who spent years caring for

dying patients, wrote a book titled "The Top Five
Regrets of the Dying." The most common regret
was:
"I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to
myself, not the life others expected of me."

In the end, what truly matters is:

 Inner Peace: Did you find joy in the

present moment?

 Meaningful Connections: Did you love

and let yourself be loved?

 Authentic Living: Did you honour your

true self?

 Positive Impact: Did you leave the world a

little better than you found it?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 86

A Simple Path to Purpose: The Ikigai Model

The Japanese concept of Ikigai (生き甲斐) beautifully

captures the essence of purpose. It lies at the
intersection of four things:

1. What you love (Passion)

2. What you are good at (Profession)

3. What the world needs (Mission)

4. What you can be paid for (Vocation)

Reflecting on these areas can illuminate a path

that feels both fulfilling and sustainable.

Final Thoughts: The Journey Is the Purpose

Rumi, the great Persian poet, once wrote:

"When the soul lies down in that grass, the world
is too full to talk about. Ideas, language—even
the phrase each other—do not make any sense."

Purpose isn’t found in a single moment of

revelation but in the continuous unfolding of life
itself. It’s in the books you read, the smiles you
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 87

share, the risks you take, and the quiet moments

of gratitude.

So, stop chasing purpose as if it's a treasure

hidden at the end of a map. Instead, live
mindfully, love deeply, serve passionately, and
embrace each moment. In doing so, you'll realize
that life itself is the purpose, and everything else
is just noise.

The Education System:

From Factories of
Obedience to Foundries
of Humanity
Our education system — once a beacon of
knowledge and enlightenment — has devolved
into a soul-crushing factory, mass-producing
robots instead of raising free-thinking,
compassionate human beings. It has forgotten its
roots, its purpose, and its responsibility. The very
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 88

institutions meant to awaken young minds have

become prisons that silence creativity, punish
curiosity, and reward blind obedience. And the
worst part? We accept it. We call it 'normal.'

But what if this 'normal' is the problem?

The Roots We Abandoned

Education wasn’t always like this. Once upon a

time, it was about self-discovery, about nurturing
the mind and soul. The ancient Indian Gurukul
system didn’t teach students to memorize
answers — it taught them how to ask questions.
It wasn’t about producing labourers for an
economy; it was about producing leaders,
philosophers, warriors, and artists — individuals
capable of shaping the world, not just surviving in
it.

Fast forward to today. What do we have? A

system designed by the British colonialists to
create clerks and obedient workers — and we
never updated it. The chains are still there, just
painted in brighter colours.

What We Call 'Education' Is Brainwashing

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 89

From the moment a child steps into school,

they’re shoved into an assembly line:

 Memorize, don’t understand.

 Obey, don’t question.

 Compete, don’t collaborate.

 Conform, don’t create.

We measure intelligence by how well students

can cram information, regurgitate it in exams,
and forget it the next day. Critical thinking?
Irrelevant. Emotional intelligence? Ignored.
Practical skills? Who cares? As long as you score
well, you’re a 'good student.'

This is not education. This is programming.

The Coaching Epidemic: Education for Sale

The rise of coaching institutes — is a direct

consequence of this broken system. These
centres have become pressure cookers where
students are cooked alive, chasing a mirage of
'guaranteed success.' Parents pour their life
savings into these institutes, believing the
promises of a 'bright future.' But what they often
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 90

get is a child drowning in anxiety, depression, and

hopelessness.

The coaching industry thrives on one thing: fear.

Fear of failure, fear of poverty, fear of
disappointing family and society. They sell hope
— but what they really deliver is burnout.

The Human Cost: Anxiety, Depression, Suicide

Let’s stop pretending. This system isn’t just

flawed — it’s killing our youth.

Anxiety attacks, depression, and suicides have

become alarmingly common among students.
They’re not scared of exams — they’re scared of
what happens if they fail. Because in this system,
failure isn’t a lesson; it’s a life sentence. Students
who dare to dream beyond engineering,
medicine, or government jobs are labelled
'failures' by their families and society.

The truth is, they’re not failing — the system is.

The Purpose of Education: A Lost Philosophy

What is the true purpose of education? Is it to

memorize textbooks, get a degree, and secure a
job that pays enough to survive? Or is it to create
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 91

individuals who can think, question, innovate,

and feel empathy for others?

Education is More Than Just a degree

In an era where academic qualifications often

dictate societal status, it is crucial to
acknowledge that real education is not confined
to diplomas or prestigious institutions. As
Shakuntala Devi insightfully stated, “Education is
not just about going to school and getting a
degree. It’s about widening your knowledge and
absorbing the truth about life.”

Many individuals with impressive degrees lack

critical thinking, empathy, or ethical integrity—
qualities that define an educated mind. On the
other hand, there are people without formal
education who possess immense wisdom, life
experience, and an ability to solve real-world
problems. True education empowers individuals
to think independently, question assumptions,
and embrace lifelong learning.

Education—A Journey, Not Just a Destination

Education has long been perceived as a means to

secure a job, earn a stable income, and achieve
professional success. However, true education
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 92

extends far beyond the confines of classrooms

and textbooks. It is about shaping intellect,
nurturing character, and fostering a lifelong quest
for knowledge. Martin Luther King Jr. wisely said,
“The function of education is to teach one to
think intensively and to think critically.
Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of
true education.” This statement serves as a
guiding principle in understanding what
education truly means.

Education is not merely about financial success or

professional achievement—it is about living a
meaningful and purposeful life. Brad Henry
captures this essence, saying, “Education is not
solely about earning a great living. It means living
a great life.” A truly educated person
understands the importance of ethics, moral
responsibility, and compassion.

Consider the example of Mahatma Gandhi, who

was a lawyer by profession but used his
knowledge for the greater good of society. His
education was not just about acquiring legal
expertise; it was about applying wisdom and
character to lead a movement for justice and
equality. Similarly, figures like Nelson Mandela
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 93

and Mother Teresa exemplify the power of

education when it is driven by a higher purpose
rather than personal gain.

The purpose of education is liberation — mental,

emotional, and spiritual. It’s meant to create free
minds, not obedient slaves. It’s meant to
empower, not suppress. Education should teach
us how to live, not just how to earn.

As the philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti once said:

"It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to
a profoundly sick society."

Our education system rewards adjustment. It

punishes those who rebel, those who think
differently, those who refuse to play by the rules.
But it’s the rebels, the thinkers, the creators —
the misfits — who change the world.

Critical Thinking: The Heart of True Education

One of the fundamental aspects of education is

the ability to think critically. A society that lacks
critical thinking fosters ignorance, blind
conformity, and manipulation. Education should
encourage questioning, analysis, and the courage
to challenge outdated norms.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 94

Today, with the proliferation of misinformation

and fake news, the need for an education system
that promotes independent thought is greater
than ever. The ability to discern truth from
falsehood, analyse situations objectively, and
make informed decisions is a direct result of a
well-rounded education.

Education and Emotional Intelligence

A person may have immense academic

knowledge but fail to navigate human
relationships with understanding and
compassion. True education must integrate
emotional intelligence, teaching individuals how
to manage emotions, empathize with others, and
develop meaningful relationships.

Workplaces, societies, and governments thrive

not just on intellectual acumen but also on
emotional intelligence. Leaders who lack
empathy and ethical judgment can cause
irreparable damage to societies, regardless of
their academic credentials.

Education as a Tool for Social Change

Education is a powerful force in transforming

societies. It eradicates poverty, promotes gender
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 95

equality, and empowers marginalized

communities. An educated society is a
progressive society, where individuals are aware
of their rights, responsibilities, and the value of
democratic participation.

Nations that prioritize holistic education have

witnessed remarkable progress. For instance,
Finland’s education system is renowned for
fostering creativity, critical thinking, and personal
growth rather than rote learning and exam
scores. As a result, it has one of the highest
literacy rates and overall well-being indexes in
the world.

What We Need: A Revolution in Education

We don’t need another reform. We need a

revolution.

 Replace rote learning with critical

thinking. Students should be taught how
to think, not what to think.

 Prioritize emotional intelligence and

empathy. A society full of intellectuals
without humanity is a dangerous one.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 96

 Teach practical life skills. Taxes, laws,

mental health, communication, creativity
— these should be core subjects.

 Destroy the obsession with grades. A

number on a piece of paper does not
define a human being’s worth.

 Redefine success. Teach students that

success isn’t about wealth or status — it’s
about finding purpose and making a
difference.

The Final Call: We Are Not Machines

We are humans — not robots. We’re not here to

memorize, obey, and die. We’re here to create,
love, and leave this world better than we found
it.

The question is — will you let this broken system

define who you are? Will you let them turn you
into a lifeless cog in their machine? Or will you
rise, unlearn their lies, and reclaim the true
purpose of education — to become the best,
most authentic version of yourself?

The future belongs to those who dare to think.

Are you one of them?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 97

It’s time to stop surviving. It’s time to start living.

It’s time to wake up.

Build a legacy, not just a

resume
"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of
value." – Albert Einstein

In a world obsessed with accolades, wealth, and

recognition, this timeless quote by Einstein
serves as a gentle yet profound reminder: true
greatness lies not in what we achieve for
ourselves but in what we contribute to the world
around us. Success, while alluring, is often
fleeting. Value, however, creates an enduring
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 98

legacy—it touches lives, inspires change, and

defines character.

The Illusion of Success vs. The Power of Value

Success, as society defines it, is often measured

by material accomplishments—high-paying jobs,
luxury possessions, prestigious titles, and
widespread fame. While these achievements can
bring comfort and pride, they rarely offer lasting
fulfilment. History is filled with stories of
successful individuals who, despite their external
triumphs, felt an inner void.

Take Howard Hughes, for example. Once the

world's richest man, he lived in isolation during
his final years, haunted by anxiety and
dissatisfaction. Contrast this with someone like
Mother Teresa, who owned little but lived a life
of immense fulfilment by serving others. Her
value to society far outweighed any material
success she could have pursued.

Thus, the true measure of a person's worth lies

not in their bank balance but in their character,
compassion, and contributions. Value creates a
ripple effect—when you enrich the lives of
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 99

others, your legacy continues long after worldly

successes fade.

Few Real-Life Examples: Value Over Success

Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi could have pursued

personal success as a lawyer, but he chose to live
by the values of non-violence and truth, inspiring
millions worldwide to fight injustice peacefully.

Mother Teresa: She did not seek fame or

fortune. Instead, she dedicated her life to serving
the poor and sick, becoming a global symbol of
compassion and selflessness

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Known as the "Missile Man

of India," Dr. Kalam never chased personal
success. Instead, he dedicated his life to science,
education, and inspiring the youth. His humility
and commitment to uplifting others made him a
beloved figure worldwide.

Ratan Tata: Unlike many industrialists who chase

profits, Ratan Tata prioritized philanthropy,
ethical business practices, and national
development. His commitment to uplifting
society through initiatives in education,
healthcare, and rural development exemplifies
true value.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 100

Swami Vivekananda: Vivekananda did not seek

personal fame but worked tirelessly to spread the
message of spirituality, selflessness, and
humanism. His teachings continue to inspire
millions around the world.

Malala Yousafzai: Malala’s fight for girls'

education, even after surviving an assassination
attempt, shows her dedication to creating value
for society. Her advocacy has empowered
countless young girls to pursue education.

Florence Nightingale: Known as the founder of

modern nursing, Nightingale chose to serve the
wounded rather than seek personal glory. Her
contributions revolutionized healthcare
worldwide.

Jane Goodall: As a primatologist and

conservationist, Goodall didn’t seek fame. Her
lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation and
advocacy for environmental sustainability turned
her into an icon of positive change.

These individuals remind us that success can

fade, but the value we create lives on.

Core Values to Inculcate for a Meaningful Life

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To become a person of value, one must cultivate

certain principles that shape character and guide
actions. Here are ten such values worth
embracing:

1. Integrity: "Integrity is doing the right

thing, even when no one is watching." –
C.S. Lewis Integrity means being honest
and true to your principles. People trust
those who stand by their word, regardless
of circumstances.

2. Empathy: Understanding and sharing the

feelings of others creates stronger
connections. Empathy allows us to uplift
those around us and build meaningful
relationships.

3. Humility: A humble person acknowledges

their strengths without arrogance and
recognizes the contributions of others.
The true value lies in lifting others, not in
self-promotion.

4. Respect: Treating others with dignity,

regardless of status or background,
reflects one's character. Respect fosters
harmony and mutual growth.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 102

5. Responsibility: Taking ownership of one's

actions, both successes and mistakes,
builds resilience and earns respect.
Responsible individuals contribute
positively to society.

6. Kindness: Small acts of kindness create a

significant impact. A kind word or gesture
can brighten someone's day and inspire
them to pay it forward.

7. Perseverance: Challenges are inevitable,

but persistence transforms obstacles into
opportunities. Perseverance reflects the
commitment to personal growth and
meaningful contributions.

8. Generosity: Sharing knowledge, time, or

resources without expecting anything in
return enriches both the giver and the
receiver.

9. Curiosity: Lifelong learners remain

adaptable and innovative. Curiosity drives
self-improvement and opens doors to
new opportunities.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 103

10. Gratitude: Appreciating what we have

fosters contentment and encourages us to
give back to the world.

How to Become a Person of Value: A Step-by-

Step Guide

1. Define Your Purpose: Identify what truly

matters to you—whether it's helping
others, creating art, or advancing
knowledge—and align your actions
accordingly.

2. Practice Self-Awareness: Reflect on your

strengths, weaknesses, and motivations.
This clarity helps you stay true to your
values.

3. Prioritize Service Over Self-Interest: Look

for ways to contribute—mentor someone,
volunteer, or simply offer support to a
friend in need.

4. Build Meaningful Relationships: Surround

yourself with people who inspire and
challenge you to grow.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 104

5. Lead by Example: Demonstrate the values

you wish to see in others. Actions often
speak louder than words.

6. Embrace Failure as a Teacher: View

setbacks not as defeats but as
opportunities for growth and learning.

7. Stay Grounded: Success can be

intoxicating, but staying humble ensures
that your focus remains on creating value
rather than accumulating accolades.

8. Practice Daily Kindness: Even small

gestures—a smile, a kind word, or helping
hand—can create lasting impact.

9. Commit to Lifelong Learning: The more

you grow, the more you can contribute to
the world.

10. Leave a Legacy: Ask yourself: How will

people remember me? Let your actions
today shape the answer.

Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Value

In the grand narrative of life, success is but a

fleeting chapter—what truly endures is the
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 105

impact we leave behind. As Maya Angelou

beautifully put it:

"People will forget what you said, people will

forget what you did, but people will never forget
how you made them feel."

So, strive not merely to climb the ladder of

success but to build bridges of value along the
way. In doing so, you will not only enrich your
own life but also inspire countless others—a
legacy far more meaningful than any material
achievement.

Ultimately, the world needs more people who

measure their worth not by what they have but
by what they give. Will you be one of them?

The choice is yours.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 106

The Best Way to Predict

the Future of a Nation is
by Looking at Its Youth
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the former President of
India and one of the greatest visionaries of our
time, once said, “The best way to predict the
future of a nation is by looking at its youth.” This
statement holds profound significance, as the
youth are not just the inheritors of a nation’s past
but the architects of its future. The strength,
vision, and values they uphold today will shape
the destiny of their country tomorrow.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 107

In every great civilization, from the Renaissance

to the modern digital era, it has been the young
minds that have driven progress and innovation.
But for youth to be the real game-changers, they
must first realize who they are for the nation,
what they can do, and how they can contribute
effectively.

Who is the Youth for the Nation?

Youth are often called the backbone of a nation

because they bring energy, creativity, and fresh
perspectives. They are the driving force of social,
economic, and technological change. But their
role is not just limited to building careers and
businesses; they hold the responsibility of
shaping a just, progressive, and sustainable
society.

Characteristics of the Youth That Make Them

Crucial for Nation-Building:

 Energy & Enthusiasm: The ability to work

tirelessly, adapt quickly, and drive change.

 Innovative Thinking: A capacity to think

outside the box and find solutions to
national and global problems.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 108

 Resilience & Courage: The strength to

challenge outdated norms and push for
reforms.

 Moral Responsibility: The power to

uphold and spread ethical values,
integrity, and justice.

 Social Awareness: The sensitivity to

recognize social problems and actively
work towards solutions.

Mahatma Gandhi believed in the power of youth,

stating, “The future depends on what you do
today.” If today’s youth invest in education,
integrity, and action, the future of the nation will
be bright.

What Can the Youth Do for Their Country?

Understanding their potential, youth must

engage in meaningful actions to transform their
nation. Here are some key areas where they can
contribute:

1. Lead Social Change and Upliftment

Young people have always been at the forefront

of revolutions. Be it the Indian independence
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 109

movement, the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S.,

or modern climate activism, it is the youth who
have led the charge.

 Fight against corruption, inequality, and

discrimination.

 Work towards gender equality and social

justice.

 Actively engage in volunteerism and social

work.

2. Drive Innovation and Economic Growth

Nations that thrive economically have strong

entrepreneurial youth.

 Start businesses that create jobs and

boost the economy.

 Innovate in science, technology, and

digital transformation.

 Support ‘Make in India’ and similar

initiatives to strengthen the nation’s
industries.

3. Strengthen Democracy and Governance

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 110

For a country to progress, its democratic

institutions must be strong.

 Participate in voting and encourage

informed electoral decisions.

 Question and hold leaders accountable

for governance.

 Join civil services, law enforcement, or

policymaking roles to drive change from
within.

4. Protect and Preserve the Environment

Sustainable development is critical for a nation’s

future.

 Reduce waste, conserve energy, and

promote eco-friendly lifestyles.

 Join global efforts to combat climate

change.

 Innovate sustainable technologies and

advocate for green policies.

5. Advance Education and Skill Development

An educated youth leads to a prosperous nation.

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 111

 Promote literacy programs and mentor

underprivileged students.

 Develop skills in science, mathematics,

technology, and arts to contribute
effectively to global advancements.

 Support research and development in

areas critical for national progress.

How Can Youth Achieve This?

It is not enough to have the desire to change the

nation; youth must take concrete steps to bring
about transformation.

1. Self-Improvement and Knowledge Building

The first step towards contributing to the nation

is self-growth.

 Read books, articles, and stay informed

about current events.

 Gain expertise in a chosen field and excel

in it.

 Develop emotional intelligence and

leadership skills.

2. Be Proactive and Take Initiative

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 Participate in leadership programs,

community projects, and innovation hubs.

 Create startups or organizations that

address national challenges.

 Take part in social movements, policy

discussions, and volunteer programs.

3. Collaborate and Build Networks

 Join youth organizations that work for

social change.

 Engage with mentors and role models

who can guide them.

 Work together beyond regional, religious,

and class barriers to create unity and
strength.

4. Develop a Strong Moral Compass

As Swami Vivekananda famously said, “Give me

100 energetic young men and I shall transform
India.” The youth must uphold strong moral
values, act with integrity, and ensure that they
lead by example.

5. Overcome Challenges with Resilience

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There will be obstacles on the path, but a

determined youth can overcome them.

 Stay motivated despite failures.

 Learn from mistakes and keep moving

forward.

 Push back against negative influences and

stay true to national values.

Conclusion: The Time is Now!

Youth are not just the future; they are the

present force that can redefine the nation’s
destiny. A nation’s prosperity, global standing,
and social fabric depend on how well its youth
rise to the occasion.

As Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam rightly said, “Dream,

dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts
and thoughts result in action.” The youth must
dream of a better future, think of innovative ways
to achieve it, and act with determination.

The time to wait is over. The time to act is now.

The question is no longer, “What will our country
do for us?” but rather, “What can we, the youth,
do for our country?” The answer lies in self-
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 114

improvement, proactive engagement, and a

relentless pursuit of excellence. The future of our
nation is in the hands of its youth, and they must
rise to the challenge!

Let us pledge to be the change-makers who will

transform our nation into a beacon of progress,
justice, and prosperity.

The Choice: The Unseen

Power Shaping Your
Life
Life is nothing more than a series of choices —
each one a fork in the road that determines who
we become. Some choices are small and
seemingly insignificant, while others shape entire
destinies. But what if I told you that one wrong
choice, one impulsive decision, could ripple
through generations, altering not only your life
but the lives of countless others? This is the
silent, unstoppable force of The Choice.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 115

The Illusion of Control

We live under the comforting illusion that we

control everything — our lives, our outcomes,
our futures. But the truth is, we only control one
thing: our choices. Once a decision is made, the
consequences are no longer in our hands. Like a
stone thrown into a still lake, the ripples expand
beyond what we can see.

Imagine standing at the edge of a vast ocean.

Each wave is a choice you've made. Some waves
are gentle, barely reaching the shore. Others rise
like tsunamis, reshaping the landscape entirely.
You may not see the full force of your decisions
immediately — but they always leave a mark.

The Domino Effect of a Single Decision

Picture a line of dominoes stretching to the

horizon. The first tile is small, innocent even. One
push, one bad choice, and the chain reaction
begins. A lie told to avoid trouble leads to more
lies, each one heavier than the last. A moment of
anger escalates into violence. One decision to
follow the crowd leads to years of regret.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 116

Let’s make this real. A teenager, pressured by

friends, takes part in a robbery. It seems like a
quick way to get money — a momentary thrill.
But that decision doesn’t end when the money is
spent. Someone gets hurt. A life is lost. Families
are broken. The teen is caught and imprisoned.
Their future — once full of potential — is now a
cautionary tale. One night, one choice, and lives
are permanently shattered.

The Weight of Regret

Regret is a prison of its own kind, and the bars

are made of our past decisions. People often say,
"I wish I could go back and change things." But
time is merciless. It moves forward, never back.

Imagine carrying a backpack filled with bricks.

Each brick is a bad choice. At first, the weight
feels manageable. But with every wrong decision,
another brick is added. Eventually, the weight
becomes unbearable. You sink under the
pressure of what you could have done differently.

The harsh reality is that regret doesn’t change

the past. It only reminds us of what we’ve lost —
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 117

opportunities missed, relationships broken,

potential wasted.

The Legacy of a Choice

When you make a decision, you’re not just

affecting your life — you’re influencing the lives
of everyone around you. A father who abandons
his family leaves scars on his children that may
never heal. A young person who turns to crime
leaves behind grieving parents and shattered
dreams.

But the same power works in reverse. A student

who chooses to study instead of party might
inspire their younger sibling to value education. A
person who breaks free from addiction shows
their friends that change is possible. A teenager
who stands up to a bully could empower others
to do the same.

Your choices don’t just shape you. They create a

legacy — one that will outlive you.

Choosing a Different Path

 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 118

So, what do you do when you’re standing at that

fork in the road? How do you ensure you make
the right choice, the one that leads to growth,
not destruction?

1. Pause and Reflect – Before making a

decision, stop. Ask yourself, “Will this
move me closer to the person I want to
become, or push me further away?”

2. Own Your Choices – Don’t let others

decide for you. Following the crowd is
easy — but it rarely leads to greatness. Be
brave enough to think for yourself.

3. Consider the Ripples – Visualize the long-

term consequences. Who might this
decision hurt? Who might it help? Will
you be proud of this choice years from
now?

4. Seek Wisdom – Talk to people who have

walked the path before you. Learn from
their successes — and their mistakes.

5. Make the Hard Choice – Sometimes, the

right decision is the hardest one. It takes
strength to walk away from the easy path
when you know it leads to a dead end.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 119

The Choice Is Yours — Always Has Been

In the end, everything boils down to one truth:

You are the author of your own story. Each
decision you make writes a new line, a new
chapter. Will your story be one of regret or
redemption? Of wasted potential or unstoppable
growth? Of selfishness or selflessness?

The choice is — and always will be — yours.

And remember this: even if you’ve made bad

choices before, it’s never too late to start making
better ones. The next chapter is unwritten. Make
it one worth reading.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 120

Togetherness: The
Power of Unity
In a world that often glorifies individual success,
we tend to overlook an essential truth: no one
truly thrives alone. Togetherness is the invisible
thread that holds humanity together,
transforming isolated dreams into shared
realities. As the iconic quote goes, "A dream you
dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream
together is reality." This isn’t just poetic wisdom
— it’s a blueprint for achieving the extraordinary.

The Strength in Unity

Humans are social beings. From the earliest days

of civilization, survival wasn’t about the strongest
individual but the most connected community.
Alone, we are limited by our own knowledge,
skills, and endurance. Together, we combine our
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 121

strengths, balance our weaknesses, and uplift

one another.

Imagine a single stick. It’s easy to break. But bind

several sticks together, and they become
unbreakable. This metaphor isn’t just about
physical strength — it’s about emotional
resilience, mental fortitude, and the unstoppable
force that emerges when people work in
harmony.

Dreams Realized Through Togetherness

John Lennon’s words, "A dream you dream alone

is only a dream. A dream you dream together is
reality," highlight an essential principle: shared
vision amplifies potential. Think of history’s
greatest movements — from civil rights to
technological revolutions. They weren’t powered
by one person’s desire but by a collective belief
that change was possible.

Take India’s fight for independence. It wasn’t the

dream of one individual but a united struggle led
by countless brave souls, inspired by a shared
vision of freedom. Mahatma Gandhi didn’t walk
alone; he walked with millions. Together, they
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 122

turned an impossible dream into an undeniable

reality.

Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way — Together

The proverb "Where there’s a will, there’s a way"

takes on even greater strength when paired with
togetherness. A lone will can falter, lose hope, or
face obstacles too large to overcome. But a
collective will — united by purpose — becomes
an unstoppable force.

Consider the moon landing. It wasn’t the

achievement of one brilliant mind but of
thousands of scientists, engineers, and dreamers
working in unison. Their shared determination
propelled humanity beyond earthly limits.

The Emotional Power of Togetherness

Beyond achievements and goals, togetherness

fulfills a deeper human need: connection. It gives
us a sense of belonging, a reminder that we are
not alone in our struggles. When we stand
together, burdens feel lighter, and joy feels
richer.

Think about moments of personal hardship. A

comforting word from a friend or a family
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 123

member’s unwavering support can turn despair

into hope. Togetherness isn’t just about achieving
great things — it’s about enduring life’s storms
with the strength of a collective heart.

Building a Future Together

So, how can we embrace and foster

togetherness?

 Listen and empathize: True togetherness

begins with understanding. By listening to
others’ perspectives and empathizing with
their experiences, we create genuine
connections.

 Collaborate, don’t compete: The mindset

of "us versus them" divides. But
collaboration breeds innovation and
unity.

 Celebrate each other’s victories: One

person’s success doesn’t diminish
another’s worth. When we celebrate each
other, we foster an environment where
everyone thrives.

 Stand together in adversity: It’s easy to

unite during success, but true
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 124

togetherness is proven during hardship.

Be the pillar for others, and you’ll find
they become yours when you need them
most.

The Legacy of Togetherness

Togetherness isn’t just a strategy for success —

it’s a legacy we leave behind. When we uplift
others, we create a ripple effect that inspires
future generations. "Each one, teach one." The
wisdom, kindness, and strength we share today
shape the world tomorrow.

Let’s not fall into the illusion of solitary greatness.

Let’s recognize the power that lies in standing
together. After all, a single star may shine
brightly, but a sky full of stars illuminates the
entire night.

So, ask yourself: Who are you standing with? And

who are you inviting to stand with you? Because
together, we can turn dreams into reality — and
make the impossible, possible.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 125

Clarity: The Foundation

of Peak Performance
Imagine standing at the edge of a dense forest,
fog rolling thick between the trees. You know
there’s a beautiful destination on the other side
— a place of success, fulfilment, and happiness —
but without a clear path, you wander aimlessly.
This is what life looks like without clarity.

Clarity is the sunlight that burns through the fog,

revealing the path forward. It’s the compass that
aligns your heart, mind, and actions. In the
pursuit of any great achievement, whether
personal or professional, clarity is the bedrock
upon which peak performance is built. Let’s dive
into this essential principle by exploring vision,
mission, and goals — the three pillars that define
clarity.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 126

The Power of Goals: Why Success Follows Those

with a Clear Direction

Why are some people wildly successful while

others seem stuck, drifting from one thing to
another? The answer often boils down to a single
concept: having a clear, defined goal. People with
goals are successful because they know exactly
where they’re going — and that clarity fuels their
journey.

Let’s explore this through a powerful analogy

that perfectly illustrates why having a goal isn’t
optional — it’s essential.

The Ship Analogy: Success with a Map

Imagine a ship about to leave port. It has a

captain, a trained crew, and a detailed map
outlining the entire journey. The destination is
clear, and everyone on board knows the route
and the time it will take to get there. This ship is
destined for success — it will reach its destination
999 times out of 1000 missions. It’s practically
guaranteed.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 127

The ship’s success isn’t a fluke. It’s a result of

having a clear goal, a plan, and a team working
towards that outcome. This is how success works
in life, too — when you know where you’re
headed, you dramatically increase your chances
of getting there.

Now picture a second ship, identical in structure

but completely different in its approach. This one
has no captain, no crew, no map, and no defined
destination. It’s set adrift with no guidance or
purpose. What happens to this ship? It’s painfully
obvious: it will either sink, get caught in a storm,
or end up stranded on some deserted island.
Reaching a meaningful destination isn’t even a
possibility.

Isn’t this how life works, too? Without goals,

we’re like that rudderless ship — drifting
aimlessly, vulnerable to the tides and storms of
life. Success isn’t random. It requires purpose,
direction, and deliberate action.

The Ultimate Secret: You Become What You

Think
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 128

Now, let’s uncover the most powerful truth of all

— a truth so simple yet profound that it has
echoed through history.

We become what we think.

Every great thinker, philosopher, and leader in

history, despite their differences, agreed on this
one thing. Your dominant thoughts shape your
reality. If you think like a winner — setting clear
goals, believing in yourself, and taking consistent
action — you’ll achieve success. If your mind is
clouded with fear, doubt, and aimlessness, you’ll
get stuck in that reality instead.

This is more than motivation — it’s a universal

law of human success.

The Power of Vision, Mission, and Goals"

Vision: The "Why" — Your Ultimate Destination

The vision is your big-picture dream — where

you want to end up. It’s about inspiration and
purpose.

It answers:
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 129

 Why do we exist?

 What impact do we want to make in the

long run?

Example:

 Tesla's Vision: "To create a sustainable

future for energy."

 My Book’s Vision: "To awaken the youth

to break free from mental slavery and
create a world driven by purpose,
courage, and truth."

Think of the vision like a North Star — you may

never fully reach it, but it guides every step you
take.

2. Mission: The "How" — Your Roadmap

The mission is about action. It explains how

you’re going to turn your vision into reality —
the methods, approaches, and mindset you’ll
use to get there.

It answers:

 What do we do?
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 130

 Who do we serve?

 How do we make a difference?

Example:

 Nike’s Mission: "To bring inspiration and

innovation to every athlete in the world."
(And they add: “If you have a body, you’re
an athlete.”)

 My Book’s Mission: "To ignite a

revolution in young minds by dismantling
false beliefs, challenging corrupt systems,
and empowering them to lead with
wisdom, courage, and compassion."

The mission is like the engine driving the journey.

3. Goals: The "What" — Your Milestones

Goals are specific, measurable achievements

that bring the mission to life. They’re practical
steps — think of them as checkpoints on the
road to your vision.

It answers:
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 131

 What are the key achievements that’ll

prove we’re succeeding?

 How do we measure progress?

Example:

 Google’s Goal: "Organize the world’s

information and make it universally
accessible and useful."

 My Book’s Goals:

o Reach and inspire 1 million young

readers within 2 years.

Goals should be concrete, realistic, and time-

bound — like a battle plan.

When you align your vision, mission, and goals,

you create an unstoppable force. Here’s what
happens:

 Clarity: You stop wasting energy on things

that don’t serve your purpose.

 Focus: You make better decisions because

you know exactly what you’re working
towards.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 132

 Resilience: When challenges hit (and they

will), your vision keeps you going.

 Fulfilment: Success becomes more

meaningful because you’re building
something bigger than yourself.

Most people wake up, go through the motions,

and hope life gets better someday. Leaders — the
ones who change the world — have a vision, a
mission, and goals to guide them.

Why Clarity Fuels Peak Performance

Without clarity, you waste time, energy, and

focus chasing distractions. It’s like running on a
treadmill — you’re moving, but you’re not getting
anywhere. Clarity stops you from mistaking
busyness for progress.

Here’s a metaphor: Imagine an archer in a

competition. Without a clear target, he can draw
his bow and fire all day, but every shot is
meaningless. The moment you place a bullseye in
front of him, his focus sharpens. His muscles
tense with purpose. His breathing slows. He’s no
longer just shooting arrows — he’s aiming to win.
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Clarity eliminates doubt, fuels confidence, and

channels effort into meaningful action. It’s the
foundation of peak performance because it
prevents wasted effort and ensures every move
serves a higher purpose.

How to Cultivate Unstoppable Clarity

1. Reflect Deeply: Ask yourself what you

truly want from life. What excites you?
What legacy do you want to leave?

2. Define Your Vision: Craft a compelling,

personal vision statement. Let it inspire
and guide you.

3. Create a Powerful Mission: Determine

how you’ll live out that vision — the daily,
consistent work you’re willing to
embrace.

4. Set Specific Goals: Break your mission

into achievable, measurable steps. Review
and adjust them regularly.

5. Eliminate Distractions: Anything that

doesn’t align with your vision is a detour.
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Learn to say no to distractions that dilute

your focus.

Final Thought: The Power of Clarity

Clarity is the foundation on which greatness is

built. With a clear vision, mission, and goals,
you’re no longer wandering through life — you’re
moving with intention, purpose, and unstoppable
momentum.

Remember this: a lion chasing two gazelles

catches none. Focus your energy on what truly
matters to you. Once you’re clear on your path,
no obstacle, setback, or failure can derail you.

The lesson is clear: people with goals succeed

because they know where they’re going. Without
goals, life becomes a directionless drift, leaving
you vulnerable to failure and mediocrity.

So, ask yourself:

 Do you have a clear, compelling goal?

 Do you have a plan to reach it?

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 Are you committed to pursuing it every

day, no matter what obstacles arise?

If you embrace this mindset — if you truly believe

that you become what you think — your life will
transform. You’ll no longer drift. You’ll navigate,
pursue, and achieve the success you’ve always
dreamed of.

The choice is yours: set a goal, or let life set one

for you.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 136

Civic Sense: The

Backbone of a Thriving
Society
The Invisible Pillar of Civilization

Imagine walking through a park where the grass

is vibrant, pathways are spotless, and the air
smells fresh — only to turn a corner and find
heaps of litter, vandalized walls, and blaring
horns from a traffic jam caused by someone
parking illegally. This stark contrast reveals a
harsh reality: civic sense is the invisible force that
defines whether a society thrives or deteriorates.

What is Civic Sense?

Civic sense is the awareness and practice of

duties and responsibilities toward society. It
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embodies respect for laws, empathy for others,

cleanliness, public order, and environmental
consciousness.

Civic sense is more than a set of rules — it’s an

attitude, It’s a way of life — a commitment to
respecting public spaces and other citizens. Moral
behaviour goes deeper, encompassing integrity,
empathy, and a sense of responsibility toward
the greater good.

To simplify it:

 Civic sense is the hand that throws

garbage in the bin.

 Moral behaviour is the heart that feels

bad for those who clean up after you.

Philosopher John Stuart Mill once said, “The

worth of a state, in the long run, is the worth of
the individuals composing it.” If we want a better
India, we must first become better individuals.

A Checklist of Civic Sense

Here’s a breakdown of key civic responsibilities

— a cheat sheet to being a responsible citizen:
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 138

 Respect Public Property: No spitting,

urinating, or vandalizing walls.

 Follow Traffic Rules: Lane discipline, no

honking, yield to pedestrians, and make
way for ambulances.

 Proper Waste Disposal: Use dustbins,

segregate waste, avoid plastic, and stop
burning trash.

 Respect Queues: At bus stops, ticket

counters, anywhere. No cutting lines.

 Maintain Noise Discipline: Avoid blaring

music in public spaces.

 Be Punctual: Value your time — and

others'.

 Avoid Corruption: Say no to bribes,

whether giving or taking.

 Promote Inclusivity: No discrimination

based on caste, religion, or gender.

 Pay Taxes Honestly: It fuels the nation’s

infrastructure.
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 Protect Natural Resources: Save water,

plant trees, and avoid pollution.

Why Do We Lack Civic Sense?

Let’s confront the uncomfortable truth. Why do

we behave so poorly in public spaces? Here are
four hard-hitting reasons:

1. Faulty Socialization: We’re pampered at

home — moms and maids clean up after
us. We grow up expecting someone else
to handle the mess.

2. Flawed Education: Our schools focus on

rote learning, not citizenship. Civic sense
isn’t taught; it's assumed.

3. Inequality and Hierarchy: Caste, class,

and wealth create divisions. We don’t see
public spaces as ours — just someone
else’s problem.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 140

4. Low Expectations: We’ve normalized filth

and chaos. If we expect squalor, that’s
what we’ll get.

Why is Civic Sense Important?

The quality of life in any country hinges on the

civic sense of its citizens. Let’s break this down:

1. Health and Hygiene: Clean streets and

public places reduce the spread of
diseases.

2. Safety and Order: Following traffic rules

and respecting others prevent accidents
and chaos.

3. Economic Growth: A well-maintained,

organized environment attracts tourism,
investments, and global opportunities.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 141

4. Social Harmony: Respect for others,

irrespective of religion, caste, or gender,
fosters unity and peace.

5. Environmental Sustainability: Conserving

resources, reducing pollution, and
protecting nature ensure a liveable future.

The 4 Es of Change: Educate, Engineer, Enforce,

Engage

Let’s not drown in despair. Here’s a blueprint for

change — the 4 Es:

1. Educate: Start young. Schools should

teach civic responsibility, environmental
awareness, and moral values — not
through textbooks but through hands-on,
participatory learning. Parents must lead
by example.

2. Engineer: Better urban design encourages

better behaviour. Think clean, accessible
public toilets, abundant dustbins, clear
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road signage, and reliable public transport

— like the Delhi Metro.

3. Enforce: Without penalties, rules are

suggestions. We need more ‘Safai
Marshals’ — on-the-spot fines for
littering, urinating in public, or breaking
traffic laws.

4. Engage: Citizen activism can’t be optional.

Join movements, create awareness,
report violations — lead by example.
Remember, no one from above is coming
to save us.

Lessons from Other Nations

Let’s steal some ideas — the good ones — from

countries that get civic sense right:

 Singapore: Stringent fines for littering,

chewing gum, and even jaywalking keep
the country spotless. But it’s more than
fear — Singaporeans feel a collective
pride in their clean streets.

 Japan: Children clean their classrooms,

and people carry their trash home when
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 143

bins aren’t available. Respect for public

space is ingrained from childhood.

 Switzerland: Waste is meticulously sorted

and recycled. Citizens take ownership of
their environment.

 Bhutan: The world’s first carbon-negative

country — their philosophy of Gross
National Happiness promotes
sustainability and community well-being.

Why not India? We’re no less capable. Our

people behave impeccably in places like the Delhi
Metro — proof that we can follow rules when the
environment supports them.

Conclusion: It Starts with You

We complain about dirty streets and chaotic

traffic — but we are the problem. If we want
smart cities, we need to become smart citizens
first. Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish
to see in the world.”

So, let’s stop waiting for someone else to clean

up our mess. Let’s rise, rebel, and reclaim our
civic sense. Our streets, our air, our rivers, our
dignity — they all depend on us.
 The Awakening & Breaking the Self Illusion| 144

Are you ready to wake up and lead the change?