6 Life Lessons From 3 Idiots

‘3 Idiots’ is one of the most popular films in the history of South Asian cinema. Even after 15 years of its release, it continues to inspire students because of its thoughtful reflection on society’s perceptions of success, and lessons that can truly lead to success.

The film is about 3 friends studying at an engineering college. The three of them have different personalities and pursue different kinds of dreams. All three of them face their own struggles and navigate their way towards success.

Here are six important life and career lessons, the film has left us with.

1. Do What You Are Made For

Do you know people who build a happy career and life are the ones whoknow their skills and aptitude? Yes, these people are able to find a passion which aligns with their personality, and end up winning at life!

‘3 Idiots’ has effectively given us this message where we see Farhan living a happy life and making a lot of money. His father was always worried photography would not pay him well. But he mastered the art of photography, travelled across the world and made a lot of money. He could not achieve this as an engineer, because he was not made for it.

2. Chase Excellence and Success will Chase You

You must remember the films most famous dialogue,

“Success ke peeche mat bhaago, excellence ka peecha karo, success jhak maar ke tumhare peeche ayegi”
(Don’t chase success. Chase excellence instead. And success will follow you!)

This single dialogue is one the biggest career lessons you will learn. Many people run after success, always striving for recognition and wealth. In doing so, they often forget to master their skills and polish our abilities.  

So, make sure you are working hard to learn and refine your skills. Once you are an expert at your job, it won’t be difficult to make money or fame in your field.

Also Read: How to Make University Experience Worth It?

3. Don’t Be Scared of Failure and Believe in Yourself

Among the three friends, Raju was always scared of failure. He had difficult family circumstances and could not afford to fail at his studies and work. But what did this fear do him? He was always so worried that won’t be able to do it, and lost faith in himself and almost took his own life. Why did he do it? He was so scared to fail that he could not even focus on success.

This teaches us that fear of failure can paralyze us. It’s essential to live in the present moment and believe in your own abilities. Failure is a part of life. Keep trying, and the future will take care of itself.

4. 'Ratta Culture’ Toppers are Not Geniuses

The film humorously critiques rote learners through the character of Chatur, the top student who, takes pride in his strong memory. Because of his ability to remember things, he was always focused on rote learning everything. He was among the top students, but he did not have the skill, creativity, and innovation that Rancho bought to the table. Later in life he was making money, but even he knew the value of a legendary scientist like Rancho.

5. If Your Career Aligns with Your Aptitude, Your Bank Account Will Stay Happy

In the film, Farhans parents wanted him to become an engineer. Their opinion was based upon myths that are still present in our society. To them, professions beside engineering were not prestigious and high paying. However, when Farhan became a photographer, he was traveling across the world, and making a huge sum of money.

It is very important to be bold and trust the process when you are pursuing a profession that is not common in your society. Remember, you will succeed in things that align with your personality, values, and desires. When you do things for which you have a natural aptitude, all you need is hardwork and dedication towards your work.

6. Communicate with Your Parents and Help Them Understand Different Career Opportunities

The film has important lesson for parents to determine their role in children’s career decisions. However, many people overlook its focus on communication done by children also. Farhaan needed a heart-to-heart conversation with his father, to make him understand how his love for photography won’t let him live happily as an engineer. Similarly, it took Piya a courageous conversation with her father, to make him understand how his pressure on his brother to pursue engineering led to his tragic death.

Sometimes it is also important for you to sit with your parents, and respectfully tell them how their opinions and imposed career decisions can impact your life and mental wellbeing. Your parents wish for the best for you. They would never intentionally destroy your life. So, it’s important that you communicate with them, and help them understand your own career aspirations.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU NEED!

All the lessons from ‘3 Idiots’ will only be useful to you if you have the following things in place,

1. A clear understanding of your personality

2. Awareness of your strengths and aptitude

3. Understanding of the education and skills required to succeed in your chosen field, your merit and the kind of education you should take

4. A clear plan about how you will enter, adjust, and advance in your career

Afterall, if you do not understand yourself, how can you convince others of your potential?

You must clearly monitor your personality, and skills. According to these look into professions and decide your own way to success. However, deciding on your own can be tricky, and you may feel stuck. In that case, professional guidance can be invaluable and we are here for you. At Eduvision, we offer career counselling and aptitude assessments to help you identify your strengths and make informed decisions about your future.

So, what are you waiting for! Do what you need to do, and create your own path to a fulfilled life.

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