Five Timeless Principles for a Happy Life

 

Happiness often lies in simplicity. When we stop overthinking and learn to accept life as it is, we begin to notice its quiet beauty. In slowing down and letting go of constant control, we find peace in everyday moments and a renewed appreciation for the present.

Generosity is another powerful key to fulfilling life. When we are generous with our thoughts, actions and possessions, we not only uplift others but also create a more positive and compassionate space for ourselves. Giving—whether it is time, kindness, or support—strengthens our sense of connection and reminds us of our shared humanity.

Life also follows the law of karma: what we think, say and do eventually return to us in some form. This simple yet profound truth encourages us to act with awareness and integrity. When we live mindfully, we not only shape our own experiences but also contribute positively to the world around us.

Equally important is learning to live in harmony with the natural flow of life, which is often referred to as the Tao. When we resist or try to force outcomes, we create unnecessary tension. However, when we trust the process and allow life to unfold, we experience greater ease and clarity. Letting go does not mean giving up—it means moving with life rather than against it.

Finally, cultivating a positive mindset helps us navigate life’s challenges with strength and grace. Positivity does not mean ignoring hardship; it means choosing to remain hopeful, resilient and open-hearted even despite adversity. With a positive outlook, we are better equipped to discover meaning in difficult times and joy in simple ones.

These five timeless principles—simplicity, generosity, mindful action, going with the flow and positivity—offer a foundation for a truly happy and meaningful life. When practiced daily, they guide us gently toward peace, purpose, and lasting fulfillment.

By Indira Solanki, Class X-C

New Months- The Gifts of Life

With the start of April come new beginnings, where Mother Nature blooms into its full grace. New chapters being unlocked in our lives, we come across new souls in which we will work in unity for the coming academic year. Keeping our spirits of sportsmanship alive, we kick started the year with the Inter-House Volleyball Match. As we begin this new journey, unforgettable moments await us in the offing.

Making the most of each new day, motivating one another and keeping a track of all the goals we have set for ourselves are the main motives of ours at present. We presume our life is a bed full of roses or even dead and withered are the beauty of it all as we overcome life's challenges and learn from our mistakes. We are in constant competition and tussle with ourselves in this race called 'life'.

I wish each and every one of my fellow mates and dear teachers that this year will push us to the highest potential of ours. Best of luck as the beauty of the month is unfolding before our eyes while the months pass by like feathers blown away with the gentle breeze.

Lily Zathang

XII B

The Headmistress: A Pillar of Leadership and Excellence

In the world of education, where every day is a new lesson and every challenge is a stepping stone, there are a few individuals who leave an everlasting impact on both students and teachers alike. One such inspiring personality is Dr Nidhi Dewan, the esteemed Headmistress of our Primary School. A perfect role model, she has not only shaped young minds but has also guided teachers towards excellence with her wisdom and grace.

From the moment one steps into her presence, it is evident that Dr Dewan carries an aura of respect and admiration. She possesses the rare ability to connect with people through her professional skills and empathetic communication. Her words are more than mere conversations; they are magic spells of motivation that push everyone to strive for greatness. Whether it is students seeking encouragement or teachers looking for guidance, she never fails to uplift and inspire.

Dr Dewan’s perseverance is reflected in everything she does. She leads by example, showing that dedication, patience, and hard work are the key ingredients to success. Her continuous interaction with students has made her one of the most loved figures in the school. With every encouraging word and thoughtful gesture, she fosters an environment where students feel valued and heard.

One of her greatest strengths is her creativity. As a teacher, I have witnessed firsthand how she goes beyond managing a school; she cultivates an environment where young minds are encouraged to question, create, and flourish. Whether it’s implementing new teaching methodologies or organising engaging activities, her ideas breathe life into the school’s daily operations. Her magic words of wisdom and encouragement instil confidence and ignite the passion for learning in every child. This attachment and commitment to the institution make her a pillar of strength for both faculty and students alike.

Under her leadership, the school is not just an educational institution—it is a family, a place where values are instilled, dreams are nurtured, and the foundation for a bright future is laid. Dr Nidhi Dewan’s presence is a reminder that true leadership is not about authority but about inspiring change, instilling confidence, and guiding with love and perseverance.

She is not just a headmistress; she is a beacon of inspiration for all of us. And in her unwavering commitment to shaping young lives, she continues to leave a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.

Arpit Sharma

Examinations- Don’t fear, beat it wisely!

 

Examinations have been an integral part of human life since ancient times. The concept of testing one’s knowledge and skill dates back to the epic era. In the Mahabharata, Guru Dronacharya famously conducted a concentration test for the Pandava and Kaurava princes to assess their focus and determination. Examinations continue to play a vital role in every sphere of life.

There is a universal agreement that examinations are stressful; be it an academic examination, an eye examination or for that matter an examination of a cupboard in the hostel. Based on the results of these exams, the people are categorised on their status and capabilities. Exams sort the brightest and the most competent among the crowd. However, it may not be so as sometimes many bright and hardworking students are left behind due to some specific reason. A good result can be a source of motivation and high self-esteem whereas a poor result can lead to great distress and self-doubt. It is a shame that students, start to play a game of blame, looking for an excuse to justify their failures instead of accepting shortcomings head-on because of the embarrassment and shame surrounding failure. We must know that good marks do not guarantee a good future. It is important for us to instead instil in the students a joy for learning and growing from failure, and to be ready to tackle a tough and challenging exam with open arms. Exams really don't have to be about passing, success can also come from failure. Therefore, our society must create a more supportive and open-minded environment for students. 

The examination journey is a roller coaster of emotions for the students. From the initial preparation and intensive studying to the actual attempt and the anxious wait for the results, a multitude of thoughts flood their minds. One word that comes to their mind most often is ‘Maybe’.. “Maybe if I had paid more attention”,  “Maybe if I had not wasted my time on movies”, etc. or in other words regret creeps in. These thoughts can be overwhelming, making the students wish that they had used their time wisely and handled things differently. Thus, examinations make them realise the importance of time management. It is unfortunate that this realization strikes a few students too late.

The pressure to succeed in competitive exams can be tremendous. Some students spend a part of their lives preparing for a certain exam, driven by the determination to succeed. The outcome of these exams determines their future. Tragically, this pressure can sometimes be too much to bear, leading some students who face disappointment to take drastic measures. The students must understand that failure is not the finale of life; but rather a fresh start. It offers us a valuable chance to relearn, reassess and grow stronger and wiser.

Hence, it is important for us to understand that life is an exam itself testing us every day and giving us an opportunity to grow and learn. Examinations are challenging but an important part of our life’s journey. We must approach them with a positive mindset and in the face of any adversity, we must get up and strive harder than before to achieve success. As Swami Vivekananda has rightly said, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”

    

By: Zodingpuii, XI

Unleashing my Creativity during Winter Vacations

Winter vacations are a magical time for students. The crisp air, cosy blankets, and hot cocoa set the stage for relaxation and inspiration. While it’s tempting to binge-watch our favourite shows or sleep, winter vacations offer the perfect opportunity to explore our creative side. There are various ways to spark our imagination and make our winter break fun and productive.

Winter vacations have always been my favourite time of the year. This year, I decided to use my break to explore my creative side and make the most of the holidays.

I started with writing, something I’ve always enjoyed but rarely get time for during school. Sitting by the window with a notebook, I let my imagination take over. I wrote a short story about a girl discovering a magical winter wonderland hidden in her backyard. It felt amazing to bring my ideas to life and create a world of my own.

Next, I tried my hands on some holiday crafts. I made paper snowflakes and painted a few mason jars to be used as candle holders. My favourite project was creating personalised greeting cards for my friends and family. Everyone loved them, and it felt so rewarding to give something handmade.

One of the best parts of my vacation was experimenting in the kitchen. With my mom’s help, I baked cookies and even tried making hot chocolate bombs. We had a lot of laughs when a few cookies didn’t turn out as planned, but the experience was so much fun.

This winter vacation was not just a break from school but also a chance to discover new hobbies, reflect on my goals and create lasting memories. It reminded me that creativity has no limits, and even small efforts can lead to big joys.

By Mishthi Trivedi

5422 Vlll C

The Challenges of Living with Roommates: A Boarding Life Perspective By: Ayana Suri (11 C)

Living in a boarding school is an adventure unlike any other. It’s a chance to grow, learn, and build lifelong friendships. But let’s face it: sharing your space with a roommate isn’t always smooth sailing. While the experience can be incredibly rewarding, it comes with its fair share of bumps along the way. Here’s a closer look at some common challenges of living with roommates and how to navigate them.

First, we have clashing personalities. Roommates often come from all walks of life, bringing different habits, cultures, and quirks to the mix. One might be a night owl who thrives on late-night study sessions, while the other is an early bird who treasures their quiet mornings. These differences can be tricky to handle, but with patience and understanding, you can find a way to coexist.

Next, we have limited privacy. Sharing a room means your personal space suddenly becomes a shared zone. Whether you’re trying to unwind or focus on homework, it can feel like you’re always in someone’s company. Setting clear boundaries and respecting each other’s need for alone time can help make things more manageable.

Many people also differ in their standards of cleanliness. Not everyone defines "clean" the same way. One of you might be all about neatness and organisation, while the other takes a more laid-back approach to tidiness. This mismatch can lead to frustration. Creating a simple cleaning schedule or dividing chores can help keep the peace.

The hardest part of living with roommates is the disagreements that are bound to happen—whether it’s over shared responsibilities, personal items, or differing opinions on room decor. The key is to address issues calmly and respectfully before they escalate. Open communication is your best tool here.

Moreover, every roommate brings their own habits and routines to the table—some you’ll appreciate, and others might drive you a little crazy. Maybe they play music while studying, or perhaps they’re fans of midnight snacking. Instead of letting these habits get under your skin, try to adapt and find common ground. A little compromise goes a long way.

Despite the hurdles, living with a roommate is an opportunity to learn and grow. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

• Keep communication open. Talk about any issues early on and don’t let small annoyances build up. Addressing concerns honestly and regularly can prevent misunderstandings and create a more harmonious living environment.
• Establish ground rules. From cleanliness to noise levels, setting expectations early can prevent misunderstandings. Agreeing on shared responsibilities and respecting each other’s needs will lay the groundwork for a successful roommate relationship.
• Embrace diversity. Remember, diversity is a strength. Embrace your roommate’s unique perspective and try to learn from them. Appreciating these differences can broaden your own outlook and enrich your experience.

Living with a roommate is a big part of the boarding school experience. It’s not always easy, but the challenges teach you valuable skills like communication, empathy, and problem-solving. And who knows? That roommate you clashed with over laundry might just become one of your closest friends. So embrace the journey—it’s all part of growing up and making memories that last a lifetime!

The Benefits of Co-curricular Activities: From Leadership to Life Skills

 

I was always someone who preferred spending time alone, and I found it hard to step out of my comfort zone. I became more dependent on my parents and was less interested in socialising or exploring new activities. It wasn’t until my parents decided to send me to a boarding school that I realised how important it was to push myself beyond my limits. They believed that being in a new environment with new challenges would help me become more independent and develop essential life skills. After some consideration, I agreed to go, thinking this would be a turning point in my personal growth.

The transition to The Mann School was initially overwhelming. At first, I struggled to make friends and felt isolated, missing the comfort of home and my parents. It was hard for me to open up to others, and I felt out of place. However, as I started engaging in different activities, I began to connect with my roommates, Stanzin Mentok and Vridhi, who became my close friends. Through their support and the encouragement of others around me, I gradually overcame my shyness and started embracing new opportunities. The experience of living away from home and engaging in co-curricular activities allowed me to develop essential skills like independence, communication, and teamwork.

To help myself grow, I decided to get involved in a variety of co-curricular activities. I started playing sports like basketball, football, and badminton, and I also tried swimming and horse riding. These activities helped me develop physical strength, endurance, and the ability to work as part of a team. I also discovered a love for public speaking and music, which became two of my biggest passions. I participated in basketball tournaments at the inter-house, zonal, and All-India IPSC levels. I also got involved in music activities, like singing at school celebrations and playing guitar for Young Mozart. These experiences built my confidence, made me more outgoing, and helped me become more self-reliant.

Looking back, I can see that I have transformed into a much more confident and independent person. The school has played a huge role in my personal growth, helping me develop important life skills that will benefit me in the future. Co-curricular activities taught me how to balance academics with personal development. I no longer saw these activities as a chore or something the school imposed on me; instead, I viewed them as opportunities for growth.

Co-curricular activities are incredibly important for my generation. They aren’t just about academics; they help us develop essential life skills that are needed to succeed in society and in the real world. Through my own experiences, I can see how these activities have positively shaped my life. I learned the value of balancing different interests, making new friends, and building social skills.

From my journey, I can confidently say that co-curricular activities play a significant role in shaping who we are. They help us develop new skills, boost our confidence, and open our minds to new experiences. I highly encourage everyone to get involved in various co-curricular activities because they promote leadership, self-growth, and personal development.

Rudrikaa
XI C
The Mann School