Picking yourself up after failure in Civils 2023 + failure is a distraction
It takes about 3 days for the Civil Services examination final results to sink in.
Not getting through in the final merit list sometimes becomes worse than not qualifying the prelims – for sometimes, it may alter the trajectory of our personal lives.
And sometimes, more than one life.
This is also the time, when you cry, and you suddenly realise that because now you are grown up, you cannot.
In public!
So you cry in the washroom, sometimes in the shower, sometimes in the privacy of you rooms. And sometimes, you just practice absorbing your tears in within your eyes, lest they fall down and people know.
It is worse if you are at home. Your parents look at your face and look worried as they age. And looking at them may make you feel even worse.
If you, or someone you know is going through this, you may share it with them.
And here are some thoughts for the fallen ones – for forumias has always been the community of the fallen.
https://forumias.com/blog/failure-is-a-distraction-making-sense-of-the-final-results-of-cse-2023/
चाहता तो बच सकता था
मगर कैसे बच सकता था
जो बचेगा
कैसे रचेगा
पहले मैं झुलसा
फिर धधका
चिटखने लगा
कराह सकता था
मगर कैसे कराह सकता था
जो कराहेगा
कैसे निबाहेगा
न यह शहादत थी
न यह उत्सर्ग था
न यह आत्मपीड़न था
न यह सज़ा थी
तब
क्या था यह
किसी के मत्थे मढ़ सकता था
मगर कैसे मढ़ सकता था
जो मढ़ेगा कैसे गढ़ेगा।
Your blog reminded me of this poem by Srikant Verma Ji sir 😊
To all fellow aspirants just want to say that keep moving,we all haven’t failed it’s just that we couldn’t clear it in this attempt and remember these lines written by Harivansh Rai Bachan Ji -
‘किस पथ से जाऊँ ?’
असमंजस में है वह भोलाभाला;
अलग-अलग पथ बतलाते सब
पर मैं यह बतलाता हूँ-
‘राह पकड़ तू एक चला चल,
पा जाएगा मधुशाला’।
चाहता तो बच सकता था
मगर कैसे बच सकता था
जो बचेगा
कैसे रचेगा
पहले मैं झुलसा
फिर धधका
चिटखने लगा
कराह सकता था
मगर कैसे कराह सकता था
जो कराहेगा
कैसे निबाहेगा
न यह शहादत थी
न यह उत्सर्ग था
न यह आत्मपीड़न था
न यह सज़ा थी
तब
क्या था यह
किसी के मत्थे मढ़ सकता था
मगर कैसे मढ़ सकता था
जो मढ़ेगा कैसे गढ़ेगा।
Your blog reminded me of this poem by Srikant Verma Ji sir 😊
To all fellow aspirants just want to say that keep moving,we all haven’t failed it’s just that we couldn’t clear it in this attempt and remember these lines written by Harivansh Rai Bachan Ji -
‘किस पथ से जाऊँ ?’
असमंजस में है वह भोलाभाला;
अलग-अलग पथ बतलाते सब
पर मैं यह बतलाता हूँ-
‘राह पकड़ तू एक चला चल,
पा जाएगा मधुशाला’।
❤️❤️❤️
Rashmirathi,
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
Oh ! this quote is so so accurate. I've met people who always blamed other people for their failure, be it exams or in general in life. It gives them a sense of comfort.
In life - your failure is your responsibility.
We can give credits for our success but can't blame for our failures.
@tedmosby how gracefully you accepted everything, not blaming your ex for -ve outcomes in your result. More power to you!
@tedmosby hey there Teddy Westside. There's a Ted in all of us. (5 Attempts/3mains/1 Interview$- still an aspirant). I remember feeling the same, blaming myself for being too soft/too hard. The only time things clicked for me was when I was at ease with my own self. See there is thing called over correction, we end up being too soft or too hard on ourselves. You've done the hard work, you have that grit. You're wiser now than you were 2 mains ago. I congratulate you on your battles- victory and defeat. Just one advice- Being kind also includes being kind to your own self. Remember Buddha's Middle Path? Boy he figured out a lot of things for us, we just need to put it in action. I hope to see your WIN in 2025.
Haha. I have been too hard on myself during my JEE & Mains 23 and too soft during Mains 22. Will eventually take the middle path now.
Chanakya,IncomingOh ! this quote is so so accurate. I've met people who always blamed other people for their failure, be it exams or in general in life. It gives them a sense of comfort.
In life - your failure is your responsibility.
We can give credits for our success but can't blame for our failures.
@tedmosby how gracefully you accepted everything, not blaming your ex for -ve outcomes in your result. More power to you!
One more fav quote - "You can't connect the dots looking forward, you can connect them looking backwards. So you have to somehow trust that the dots will connect themselves" - Steve Jobs.
People nowadays are obsessed with early success but it is the late success which gives you a sense of humbleness and a sense of respect towards your achievement.
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). (What I have done for her during Mains is a separate story altogether). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvement etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will be performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions, Intros and sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is an accidental outcome of some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even then, if they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President.We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short,mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessionsthat can makeeven the strongest, richest and the most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). (What I have done for her during Mains is a separate story altogether). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvemen etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will Performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions and Intros an sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is an accidental outcome of some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even if then they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President. We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short, mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
The enlightened one 😊🙌
GaneshGaitonde,Tyrion Lannister
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). (What I have done for her during Mains is a separate story altogether). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvemen etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will Performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions and Intros an sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is an accidental outcome of some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even if then they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President. We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short, mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
This is actually a very logical way of doing things. Goal should be writing x no. of tests and not a rank. Will do this, if I give this exam another shot.
GaneshGaitonde,ryzenauster
Unable to study...again..padhai ho hi nahi pa rahi...I am trying hard but nahi horahi.
2023 prelims marksheet -
Gs-77.4
Csat-60.8
2 marks more than gs cutoff but in normal csat years probably nahi nikalta.
@Neyawn and others..
This will be my 4th prelims.i badly want to clear prelims but nahi ho Rahi prelims ki padhai wahi basic books..+ doubts that can I clear etne din waste kiye.
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvemen etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will be performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions and Intros an sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is an accidental outcome of some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even if then they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President. We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short, mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
Just so true! Every word! Reminds me of:
I will study in moderate amounts now. I am done with pulling an allnighter, going to sleep at 8 am and waking up at 11 am. Then having energy drinks to sustain myself throughout the day.
I believe that those who got their karmas right, their luck will favour them. They will get marks. They will get a good board. Having said this, you can't control everything. You got to control the controllables and leave the rest to fate.
Talked to a double digit ranker from this year today and after hearing her 4 Mains experience, I believe "Fortune favours the brave". She is from my optional and increased her marks right from a near 170 score to a near 290 score. Learnt a lot.
So rightfully so we can't ensure that every action we take is correct. So what do we do after our failure? Accept our mistakes and improve. Take actions. Fail faster. Do the essential stuff (Mocks, PYQs, analyze, practice repeat). If you haven't done this then you are headed for failure. Please don't expect luck to favour you ever. Kabhi apne luck pe dependent matt rehna even though you should accept luck as a factor.
Ever since I devised a strategy for Prelims and implemented it mechanically (like Ganesh said), I have always cleared Pre. Those who panic, get complacent and have "YeTohHojayega" Attitude are bound to fail.
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). (What I have done for her during Mains is a separate story altogether). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvemen etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will Performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions and Intros an sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is an accidental outcome of some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even if then they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President. We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short, mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
This is actually a very logical way of doing things. Goal should be writing x no. of tests and not a rank. Will do this, if I give this exam another shot.
Bhai you fought very very well. You deserve some rest. :D
I have known you for some time and I believe that you have what it takes bro.
Let's self introspect and ensure that our next attempt is our last attempt :D
UPSC ne aisse hi kam marks nahi diye hai.
Got this quote from Rocket Boys : "Failure only means that you are one step closer to success".
@tedmosby which toppper are u referring to? even my optional is Maths, and the progress has been incremental at best, in the last three mains that i have written, from 205, to 216, and lastly 248. If possible, please share her name, i can use some dose of motivation right now..
Just PM me.
@tedmosby
Bro,
Suck it up. I hope you do well this time. Also, can u share what you did for her in mains time ? I think we are in the same boat now, disappointed all abound.
Bhai I am sucking it up. I have publicly listed my mistakes.
Please don't emphasize on the ex part. She cleared it because of her own self. Her own improvement. I had a minor role in her success. I will clear it if I overcome my own mistakes.
I personally know some people who cleared it this year (which includes my ex who is now a good friend).
I am grateful to@Neyawn sir for his pep talk post my Mains failure and other people like@GaneshGaitonde sir on this forum for their insights. So today I have to share some learnings after the result-
- I realized it was my negativity that was to blame. I had blamed everything and everyone apart from myself. I was blaming the fact that I gave the exam along with full time masters, I blamed the bad hotel room I got when I went to give my Mains exam, I blamed the lack of CSE environment I had back home, I blamed the fact that I had to travel 6 hrs to my exam centre and there are many more things.
- "Fortune favours the brave": The person who has worked properly on their strategy will clear it despite their mental trauma. The people who really worked hard w.r.t exam, succeeded. Those who genuinely have done their actions properly, every small thing will align in their direction. You will clear Mains and get a good board and eventually, good marks. There are people like AIR2 this year who clear despite everything.
- I am lucky enough that my marks in Mains reduced this year. My change in score- E: 126->119 1: 82->70 2: 112->97 3: 60->80 4: 101->106 Opt 1: 96->91 2: 96->105. It was a tight slap to remind myself that mocks practice, its evaluation, PYQs and discipline is very very important. I worked a lot on my content but didn't practice. You name the book and I have done it. My strategy was flawed right from the start and I was highly deluded that I will clear it this time. I have made exceptional syllabus wise notes but I forgot it's the strategy which matters after that. All of this I am saying because my ex improved her score from 713 in '22 to 824 in '23 while pursuing a full time job. I have known her closely and I say this with experience.
- The ho-jayega attitude : I had this sense of achievement in my mind w.r.t my optional Mathematics. After winning gold medals and state level trophy in Maths Olympiad, I was sure that I will score 300+ without giving mocks or solving PYQs (Ah the arrogance). I blamed tonsillitis for my poor performance in Maths in Mains 22. After that, I worked extensively on 'getting the edge' and in the process, I got caught behind. Now get this- I got all my questions in Modern Algebra, Mechanics and FD etc 90% correct and made silly mistakes in 'easy' topics because I thought 'ye toh ho hi jayega'. Get this- I got all the CP&NA questions wrong this time. Maths opt people might know what kind of blunder is that. The story is same for P1. People suggested to change my opt but I exactly know my shortcomings. Changing an opt won't change my behaviour.
- Coming to my relationship, she broke up with me only because of my own negativity post Mains 23 results. I had no sense of emotional intelligence (self-regulation). I couldn't comprehend what happened (I studied 14-15 hrs daily drinking 3 bottles of Sting every day. I pushed myself to the brim). Still even after all of this, she chose to stay and be a good friend. I am really happy that she cleared (I wish that she gets a top 50 rank next time and finally gets IAS). Learning- EMOTIONAL MATURITY!!
- Cry all you want but only you are responsible for your own failure. Not your luck. Not the interview board. Not your trauma. Not anything else. If you have done your karma, it will eventually work out for you. Be harsh, accept your mistakes honestly and improve.
Now that we have our marksheet, we have got a sense of closure. The deluded phase is over and it's now time to get to work. As she said, be grateful that you failed in Mains and now you have time to improve. Think about people who cleared it by just 1 mark! They will be busy with the interview while you have the chance to prepare for Mains properly. I did exactly that I started within 3 days of my failure but I still have a long way to go.
Those people who didn't clear and still have attempts left, be grateful to God that prelims is still 1.5 months away. You still have time to rebuild yourself and prove yourself again.
I don't know about others but I am glad that I failed. I hope people get to learn from all of this.
"All gods, all the heavens and all the hells are within you".
O man drinking 3 bottles of sting everyday? Do you think this is wise? Even those guys write 'do not drink more than 2 in a day.'
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