Etiquettes

The Cambridge Dictionary defines Etiquettes as “the set of rules or customs that control accepted behaviour in particular social groups or social situations.”

In simple words, it is the way you are supposed to behave in a particular situation. For example, simple practices like wishing someone Good Morning, addressing someone with a particular title (Sir, Doctor, Professor, Your Honour, Your Majesty), shaking hands when meeting a new person, giving a hug to a social acquaintance, using specific cutlery (spoon, fork, knife) when eating particular food items and many other things could be a part of etiquettes.

Following the rules of etiquettes make a person seem well behaved and sophisticated. There are very specific rules which need to be followed in formal situations. 

Here are some etiquettes specific to particular places, cultures or situations.

India

Religion plays a major role in the life and customs of many Indians. Be aware of the religious affiliation of the person that you are with and the particular customs associated with their religion.

The top of the head is the most important of the body. It is considered rude to touch the head of another person or a religious deity.

The feet are considered to be dirty. Do not point your feet at others, especially when seated. It is definitely a taboo (in places other than India also), to place your feet on the furniture.

In many households (and even some commercial establishments), it is customary to remove your footwear near the door. It is common to walk around the house in bare feet.

The right hand must be used to eat and pass things to others. Difficult for south paws, but definitely frowned upon by orthodox folks. The left hand is considered impure (as it is used for washing after you do the doo). Definitely avoid using the left hand to touch food. 

Wash your hands before you eat. A lot of Indian food is eaten with hands. Although the use of cutlery is not particularly frowned upon, it is okay to use your hands, especially, if the others are comfortable doing so.

Consumption of alcohol is considered taboo by many people. Be mindful of the local customs.

Touching the feet of an elder and religious statues is a mark of great respect.

Rather than shaking hands or giving a hug, it is customary to fold hands in a namaste to greet others, especially females or the elderly.

It is customary to carry a small box of sweets or a gift, when visiting others.

Joyous occasions and celebrations involve distributing sweets to one and all.

Punctuality is not exactly a virtue, especially in social meetings.

Food Etiquettes

• In India, always eat with your right hand.
• The French would frown upon you, if you eat your bread before your food. Do not offer to split the bill. Either foot the entire bill, or let someone else do it.
• When in Italy, never order a cappuccino after a meal. Never add extra condiments to your pizza. Never mix seafood and cheese.
• The Japanese consider it bad luck to stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice. Also, never pass food using chopsticks. While making noises while eating your food may be frowned upon, the Japanese consider loudly slurping your noodles to be a compliment to the chef. No tipping.
• In Thailand, it is considered rude to put food in your mouth with a fork.
• In Mexico, your wrists are supposed to be on the table, when eating. It is socially acceptable to eat with your hands, if the others are also doing so. Wait for the host to give a cue, before you start stuffing your face. When eating with cutlery, do not switch between your knife and fork.
• In China, never cross or lick your chopsticks. Belches are welcome! They are seen as a compliment to the chef. If you are done eating, leave some food on your plate.
• In Egypt, never add extra salt to your food. Also, wait for someone else to refill your glass. It is polite to offer to refill your neighbour’s glass.
• In Chile, it is rude to touch food with your hands. Use cutlery. Even for French fries and pizza! Bread maybe an exception to this rule.
• In South Korea, start eating only after the eldest at the table has started.

Greeting Etiquettes

• In certain regions of the Gulf states and among the Inuit people of Canada and Greenland, it is common to touch noses as a form of greeting! Make sure to use some mouth wash before you do so.
• Mother often frowns upon the child who sticks out its tongue. It is rude! Not so in Tibet. For long, it has been customary to greet people by sticking out one’s tongue. Story goes that there once was a king with a black tongue, who was not a good person. It is believed that he would be reincarnated. Sticking out one’s tongue and showing its colour was an indication that one was not that king!
• The Japanese bow down as a form of respect. However, there are numerous variations to the custom. The depth of your bow and your position – standing or kneeling – depends on a lot of factors including the person to who you bow, the kind of relationship that you have and the sentiment (greeting, gratitude, apology) that you wish to express.
• Cheek kissing seems to be a Western form of greeting to many Indians. However, one must know that there are many pointers to be kept in mind, depending on the place – Which cheek? What distance? How many times… they vary…
• In the African regions of Zimbabwe and Mozambique, clapping hands is a form of greeting. However, there are specific rules as to how the palms are slapped together.

Gifting Etiquettes

• In many countries of Asia (China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore), it is common for the receiver to refuse the gift a few times, before finally accepting it. This may be to avoid looking like a greedy or impatient person. However, once you accept, you are expected to thank the giver.
• In India, one must never use the left hand to hand over a gift. Often, both hands are used to gently present the gift to the other person. Similarly, it is polite to use both hands (palms up) to receive the gift.
• In many countries, it is bad form to give sharp objects (like knives or scissors) as gifts, as they symbolize severing of relations.
• Many regions place significance on numbers. Avoid gifting in units of four, especially in Japan. The word for death is similar to the word for four. In India, when gifting money, it is customary to gift one over a round figure; like 11, 51, 101 and so on.
• In certain middle eastern countries, it is considered embarrassing to receive a gift from anyone but the closest of friends.
• Should I open the gift right in front of the giver or not? Customs vary from place to place. It would be advisable to research the local traditions beforehand.

Random Etiquettes

• In Greece, there is an old tradition of guests pretending to spit on the Bride and Groom at a wedding. This is supposed to protect them from evil spirits.
• In China, if you are offered an entire fish to eat, never flip it over. It brings bad luck.
• To say no, you shake your head, left to right. To say yes, you nod your head, up and down. Not in Bulgaria! They do it the other way around.
• In Korean culture, only the names of the dead are written in red.
• A thumbs up is usually a sign of approval. Not in countries like Greece, Iran, Russia and parts of West Africa. It is considered the equivalent of flipping someone off.
• The OK hand gesture (your forefinger touches your thumb) is considered as an accusation of homosexuality in Turkey.
• In Indonesia, you must never point with your index finger. Instead, use your thumb.
• When you are satiated after a meal, you may say, “I’m Stuffed.” In Australia, people may mistake the expression to mean, you are pregnant.
• Tipping is customary (to the verge of seeming mandatory) in the US. Waitstaff often rely on tips for a living. The Internet is full of anecdotes about tiffs between the staff and patrons on account of tips.

How to Remain Motivated While Preparing for Entrance Exams

Well begun is half done. This line is supposed to mean, if a project is started properly, half the work is already completed. It’s supposed to be positive. However, trust people to turn it around on its head. The nay sayers interpret it to mean that a project that starts on a high, ends up being incomplete!

One of the biggest complaints that I hear from students, is their lack of motivation. While most of them start their preparation on a high, it is very easy to get lost in middle of the journey. The enthusiasm with which they start, dies down quickly and the preparation starts feeling like a burden.

What we need to realise is that the journey to cracking entrance exams like CLAT, NEET, or JEE is long and arduous. These exams are not just tests of your knowledge but also your perseverance, discipline, and focus. 

Here are some tips on how to maintain your levels of motivation on this long, and often boring, journey:

1. Set Clear Goals
   Motivation often stems from having a clear vision of what you want to achieve.

• Define Your “Why”: Ask yourself why you want to pursue the career that the entrance exam is for. Having a personal connection to your goals makes the journey meaningful.
• Break It Down: A long-term goal like cracking the NEET, JEE or CLAT can feel overwhelming. Break it into smaller milestones, such as mastering specific topics, completing mock tests, or achieving weekly targets.
• Visualize Success: Picture yourself achieving your dream—the day you walk across the convocation stage in the college of your dreams. This visualization can be a powerful motivator.

2. Develop a Realistic Study Plan
   A well-organized schedule provides direction and keeps you on track.

• Personalize Your Plan: Create a study plan that fits your learning pace, strengths, and weaknesses. 
• Include Breaks: All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy. Continuous study without breaks leads to burnout. Incorporate short breaks to refresh your mind. 
• Track Your Progress: Maintain a checklist of completed topics. Ticking off each task gives a sense of accomplishment and boosts morale.

3. Find Joy in the Learning Process
   Instead of viewing preparation as a burden, try to enjoy the process of learning.

• Connect Concepts to Real Life: Relate abstract topics to everyday scenarios. For instance, link physics concepts to machines around you, biology topics to the human body or legal principles to real life situations.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Completed a tough chapter? Solved a difficult question? Reward yourself with something you like—a favourite snack, a movie break, or time with friends.

4. Build a Supportive Environment
   Your environment plays a crucial role in sustaining motivation.

• Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Spend time with friends, family, or mentors who encourage and support you.
• Avoid Negativity: Steer clear of people who constantly compare or discourage you.

5. Stay Inspired with Stories of Success
   Hearing about others who have successfully navigated similar challenges can be incredibly motivating.

• Read Biographies or Interviews: Learn from the experiences of students who cleared NEET, JEE, or CLAT. Understand their struggles and strategies. Be wary of fake experts or mentors.
• Follow Role Models: Identify individuals in your desired field—be it a top lawyer, doctor, or engineer—and draw inspiration from their journeys.
• Remind Yourself of Past Achievements: Reflect on your own successes, big or small, to remind yourself of your capability and determination.

6. Handle Setbacks Positively
   Setbacks are a natural part of any journey, and how you respond to them matters more than the setbacks themselves.

• Learn from Mistakes: Analyse your errors in mock tests or assignments. Treat them as opportunities to improve rather than reasons to despair.
• Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others: Everyone’s journey is unique. Focus on your progress instead of getting discouraged by someone else’s.
• Keep Moving Forward: If you feel demotivated after a bad test or a low-scoring day, take a break, regroup, and resume your efforts. Consistency beats occasional bursts of effort.

7. Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle
   Your physical and mental well-being directly impact your motivation.

• Prioritize Health: Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and avoid junk food. A healthy body fuels a focused mind.
• Exercise Regularly: Even 30 minutes of walking, yoga, or a sport you enjoy can release endorphins and reduce stress.
• Sleep Well: Avoid the temptation to sacrifice sleep for study. Rested minds retain information better and stay motivated longer.

8. Use Positive Self-Talk
   The way you speak to yourself influences your mindset.

• Encourage Yourself: Replace thoughts like “I can’t do this” with “I’ll give my best shot.”
• Celebrate Effort Over Results: Remind yourself that hard work and persistence matter more than short-term outcomes.

9. Take Breaks to Recharge
   Burnout can sap motivation, making breaks essential for maintaining energy and focus.

• Pursue Hobbies: Whether it’s music, art, sports, or reading, hobbies provide a creative outlet and help you unwind.
• Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors to refresh your mind and reduce stress. A short walk in a park or garden can work wonders.
• Unplug from Technology: Limit distractions from social media or constant notifications. Use technology purposefully, like for online tutorials or study resources.

10. Focus on the Bigger Picture
    Sometimes, the daily grind can make you lose sight of why you’re working so hard. Reconnecting with the larger purpose can re-ignite your motivation.

• Think Beyond the Exam: Remember that exams like CLAT, NEET, and JEE are stepping stones to fulfilling your dreams. Keep the end goal—becoming a lawyer, doctor, or engineer—front and centre in your mind.
• Embrace the Journey: Understand that this preparation phase teaches you discipline, time management, and resilience, skills that will benefit you throughout life.

Remember, the best things in life are always worth a strong effort. Staying motivated during your preparation for CLAT, NEET, or JEE requires a combination of discipline, self-care, and a positive attitude. Take one step at a time, celebrate small victories, and never lose sight of your dreams.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out for support whenever you need it, stay consistent in your efforts, and believe in your ability to succeed. With determination and the right mindset, you can turn your aspirations into reality.

Best of luck, and keep striving for excellence!

The Importance of Extracurricular Activities for School Students

“My child used to be a state level tennis player. Should I ask her to quit the sport so that she can focus on her board exams?”

“I used to participate in a lot of Model United Nations. I am planning to prepare for a competitive entrance exam. Should I stop my MUNs?”

These are some of the saddest things that I get to hear, when I meet with students who plan to begin preparations for various school board or entrance exams. The perception of academic pressure and lack of time often puts the fear of poor time management on students, and more often their parents. With academics often being considered as the most important priority in life, extra-curricular activities often get relegated to the back seat, or in most cases, thrown out of the window! 

However, extracurricular activities are more than just hobbies or leisure pursuits—they play a crucial role in shaping a student’s personality, enhancing skills, and providing a well-rounded educational experience. For students aiming for a career in any professional field, the benefits of extracurricular involvement go beyond personal growth. These activities can provide practical skills, build leadership qualities, and serve as distinguishing factors in interviews or admissions. 

What Are Extracurricular Activities?

Extracurricular activities refer to pursuits outside the regular academic curriculum. These can include Sports (cricket, tennis, karate, chess), Arts and Creative pursuits (Music, Dance, Theatre, Painting), Academic Clubs (Debates, Quizzing, Model United Nations), Community Service (Volunteering, Social Campaigns), Leadership roles (School councils, project leads) or even Entrepreneurial Ventures (small business setup). These activities are not mere diversions. They often serve as powerful tools for personal and professional growth.

The Role of Extracurricular Activities in Holistic Development

While competitive exams seem to require academic knowledge, this is not entirely true. Many management colleges do test students on their communication, leadership and teamwork skills through selection processes such as Personal Interviews and Group Discussions. Interpersonal skills, analytical abilities, creativity and confidence are key parameters on which students are often judged in order to get admission.

Extracurricular activities play a vital role in enhancing these qualities and more. What better than a debate, an MUN or an extempore speech competition to enhance communication and confidence? What better than sports to develop teamwork skills, perseverance and stress management? What better than volunteer work to develop interpersonal skills, sense of responsibility and teamwork?

Creative pursuits like music, dance, theatre and painting stimulate innovative thinking. The ability to think outside the box is a huge asset for any professional career. Taking leadership roles at school and community events hone decision-making, leadership, teamwork qualities.

Academic Benefits of Extracurricular Activities

Contrary to the belief that extracurriculars distract from academics, they can significantly enhance learning and performance. A good student manages to learn effective time management, to be able to juggle their academics with their extra curriculars. This is one of the key skills that can help during competitive entrance exams.

Preparing for exams tend to induce stress in the student. Engaging in sports or creative arts provide a break from the academic monotony. A well-rested brain can often study more productively than a tired one. 

From personal experience, I can vouch for the fact that students who actively participate in extra-curricular activities often tend to better academic performs due to improve cognitive abilities and time management.

Extracurricular Activities and Career Readiness

Extracurricular activities are not just a means of self-expression—they also prepare students for professional life.

Students who participate in MUNs, often build skills such as advocacy, critical thinking and logical reasoning – skills that are useful for lawyers. 

Event management or entrepreneurial projects can cultivate leadership, negotiation and organizational skills – important traits for business managers.

Extracurricular achievements add weight to resumes and applications for universities or internships. Admissions panels for law and business schools often prefer candidates with diverse experiences and interests.

Personal Growth Through Extracurricular Activities

Beyond academics and career preparation, extracurricular activities contribute to personal growth and character building.

Winning competitions boosts the confidence of a student. It instils self-belief and helps overcome stage fright. This confidence is essential to ace personal interviews and group discussions.

Even losses in competitions teach students the value of perseverance and the ability to bounce back.

Activities involving social interaction, such as volunteering or team sports, improve empathy and interpersonal skills. Emotional intelligence is highly valued in fields like law and management, where understanding people is key.

Exposure to different activities and people enhances cultural awareness and open-mindedness. These traits are particularly beneficial for law and business students who often work in diverse environments.

Managing Extracurriculars with Academic Preparation

One common concern is how to balance extracurricular activities with rigorous academic schedules. Here are some tips:

1. Prioritize Your Time

• Identify activities that align with your interests and goals.
• Allocate fixed time slots for extracurriculars without compromising study time.

     2. Set Realistic Goals

• Avoid overcommitting to multiple activities.
• Focus on quality over quantity—choose activities where you can excel and learn meaningfully.

     3. Use Extracurriculars as Study Breaks

• Engage in relaxing activities like music or sports during study breaks to recharge.
• This prevents burnout and keeps your mind sharpe.

     4. Leverage Holidays and Weekends

• Utilize weekends or school vacations for activities requiring longer commitments, such as community service or workshops.

The Role of Schools and Parents in Encouraging Extracurricular Activities

Parents should encourage children to explore their interests and avoid pressuring them to focus solely on academics. Support and understanding go a long way in helping students manage both spheres.

Schools can help create an environment where academics and extracurriculars coexist. Organizing inter-school competitions, fairs, or clubs fosters holistic development.

Extracurricular activities are not just add-ons to a student’s life; they are integral to personal, academic, and professional growth. For Indian students preparing for competitive exams like the JEE, NEET, CLAT or IPMAT, these activities offer a much-needed balance, help develop essential skills, and make their profiles stand out in a competitive landscape.

While academics are undeniably important, extracurricular pursuits provide the creativity, resilience, and holistic development required to excel in today’s world. As you prepare for your exams, make time for activities that inspire and challenge you. Remember, the lessons learned outside the classroom are often the ones that shape your success and identity the most.

So, step out of your comfort zone, pursue your passions, and embrace the opportunities that extracurricular activities bring into your life. You are not just preparing for an exam—you are preparing for life.