One of my seniors used to narrate an interesting story, often poking fun at people who try to force-fit models that have worked in other countries without properly investigating their applicability or adapting them.
“While walking down the road, I found a beautiful hat and was tempted to wear it. But when I placed it on my head, I found it a little too small. For it to fit, I would either have to tailor it and adapt it to my head or go to a surgeon and ask him to adjust my head according to the size of the hat…”
Indeed, we have a tendency to force-fit solutions that others have tried into our own problems, without thoroughly investigating and adapting them to fit our situation. Or we could start from scratch and develop our own solutions.
In life, no two problems are exactly the same. Even when situations appear similar, they often require careful analysis and thoughtful reflection before reaching a solution. The subtle nuances of each scenario can call for vastly different approaches. This principle holds true across various aspects of life, whether in personal growth, education, or professional challenges. It’s a reminder that one size doesn’t fit all.
The wisdom of this concept is beautifully captured in an ancient verse from the Bhagavad Gita:
यदा ते मोहकलिलं बुद्धिर्व्यतितरिष्यति।
तदा गन्तासि निर्वेदं श्रोतव्यस्य श्रुतस्य च॥
(Bhagavad Gita 2.52)
Translation:
“When your intelligence has crossed beyond the dense forest of delusion, you shall become indifferent to all that has been heard and all that is to be heard.”
Relevance:
This verse speaks to the importance of self-reflection and wisdom in overcoming confusion. Just as intelligence helps clear away the fog of delusion, it is essential to thoroughly analyze any problem, dispel misconceptions, and gain clarity before deciding on a course of action. Without this process of reflection, we risk applying generic or inappropriate solutions to unique situations.
The Story of Four Mindless Friends
Once, there were four Brahmin friends who had received their education at a famous gurukul in Kannauj, where they attained several skills. However, despite their learning, they were completely unfamiliar with the real world and had no practical experience. After completing their studies, they sought permission from their teacher to return home.
As they travelled, they reached a forked junction and asked for directions in chaste Sanskrit. But the people around, unfamiliar with such pure language, could not help them. Confused, the friends waited at the junction. Soon, a funeral procession passed by, and they consulted their book for guidance. They found a verse that said, “Walk with the man with many followers.” Mistakenly thinking the dead man was leading, they followed the procession to the cremation ground and witnessed the entire funeral.
As the crowd dispersed, a donkey arrived. One of the friends read another verse: “One who stands with you during celebrations, famine, danger from enemies, in trials, and at the cremation is your true friend.” Delighted, they embraced the donkey, believing it was their true friend.
Next, a camel arrived, and the friends consulted their book again, finding a verse stating, “Dharma proceeds fast.” Mistaking the camel for Dharma, they tied the donkey’s neck to the camel, intending to bind their “friend” to Dharma. They walked away, inconveniencing both animals, until a villager saw them and, thinking they had stolen his donkey, beat them up.
As their journey continued, their lack of practical understanding led them into further absurd situations, where their bookish knowledge proved worthless, making them the subject of ridicule.
Moral of the Story:
This story illustrates the folly of relying solely on theoretical knowledge without applying practical wisdom. The four friends were unable to adapt their approach to the real world, leading to their repeated failures. They became a laughingstock because they blindly followed the words of their books without considering the practical situation.
Relevance to “One Size Doesn’t Fit All”:
The story exemplifies how rigidly sticking to a prescribed method, without analysing the specifics of the situation, can lead to failure. The four Brahmins failed to realize that knowledge must be adapted to the context in which it is applied. This reinforces the idea that “one size doesn’t fit all” — success comes from the ability to tailor our approach to each unique situation, rather than forcing a single method onto every problem.
Example from My Life
When my children were young, I approached my son’s education with a rigorous method, particularly in mathematics. I pushed him to solve problems that were more advanced than his current level, encouraging critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the subject. This strategy worked well for him—he thrived under the pressure and learned to apply his mind creatively and logically.
However, every child is different. My daughter, five years younger, didn’t respond to the same approach. When I tried to replicate the method with her, I quickly realized that it wasn’t helping her grow. Instead of sticking stubbornly to a formula that worked for her brother, I adjusted my approach. Recognizing her unique learning needs, I let her learn at her own pace.
She did well in her exam but didn’t develop an interest in mathematics and wanted to continue her studies in humanities. I encouraged her by telling her that whatever she chose to do, she should follow it with passion. In class 11, she started in a section without mathematics but realized within a week that her classmates didn’t match her level. She decided to shift to a section with art subjects and mathematics. I supported her decision and arranged for a professional tutor to guide her. This allowed her to develop at her own pace, without the pressure of a method that didn’t suit her needs. As a result, she gained the confidence and skills needed to clear the GRE and secure a full scholarship for admission first at Rutgers University and later at Harvard University to pursue her doctoral studies.
This experience was a powerful reminder that while certain strategies may work in one context, they aren’t universally applicable. The key lies in adapting to the individual needs of each situation or person, rather than forcing a singular method onto everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- Every Situation is Unique: Just because a strategy worked before doesn’t mean it will work again. Each problem needs to be evaluated on its own merits.
- Adaptability is Crucial: Being flexible and open to different approaches ensures better outcomes. If something doesn’t work, don’t hesitate to pivot to a new method.
- Reflection Leads to Clarity: Take time to reflect and clear away any assumptions or delusions before jumping to a solution. This clarity will guide you toward the right path.
The Bhagavad Gita’s wisdom reminds us to engage our intelligence and reflection before acting, making sure we are clear about what we are dealing with. Life, much like education or any other challenge, isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. Embracing flexibility and understanding that each situation requires a tailored approach is key to success.
Inspire Positivity 