A ripple of transformative energy pulsed through Mathrubhumi Hall at the sixth edition of the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL) as Shiv Khera, author of the global phenomenon 'You Can Win', took center stage. His session titled 'You Can Win', wasn't just a talk; it was a masterclass in personal empowerment. 

Khera, a renowned educator and business consultant, drew from 30 years of experience to deliver a powerful message about habit formation, resilience, and the art of achieving success.  He challenged conventional wisdom, debunked myths about luck and practice, and shared personal anecdotes of overcoming adversity. Khera's dynamic presentation resonated deeply, leaving the audience inspired and equipped to translate his principles into tangible results.  

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Shiv Khera
Shiv Khera

Khera opened up the session with a touch of humour, welcoming the diverse crowd with a short simple story and quipped about being 'in the right place'. He quickly transitioned to the core of his message, emphasizing the power of habit formation. "Winners form the habit of doing things losers don't like to do," Khera stated, explaining that these are often the same things winners also dislike, but they do them anyway. 

He stressed that proficiency comes from automaticity, from habits so ingrained they become reflex. "If we have to think to do the right thing, we can never do it right. It must come automatically," he said while asserting that "winners don't do different things, they do things differently". 

Khera’s talk wasn't just about positive thinking; it was about practical application. He illustrated his points with relatable anecdotes and powerful metaphors. He shared the story of a martial art student constantly practicing basic moves -- block, punch -- until they become reflex. "A martial art student never has to think about blocking and punching. It comes automatically." 

Khera challenged the common notion of luck, suggesting that "the person we call luck, you will find the positive behaviour has become habitual."  He emphasized the importance of extra effort, even when it hurts, citing the example of wrestler Dan Gable’s relentless training. "Winners always put in that extra effort even when it hurts," he declared.

The session also delved into the difference between a laborer, a craftsman, and an artist. "Till we bring everything into a form of art, we can never do anything well in life," Khera asserted, linking this to the idea of putting one’s heart into their work, as exemplified by a high jumper clearing a 7-foot-4 bar. "I throw my heart over the bar and my body follows."

Khera debunked the popular saying, "Practice makes perfect", arguing that "practice only makes perfect whatever you practice permanently." He also shared the profound impact of Dr Norman Vincent Peale's teachings, particularly the serenity prayer: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change. And courage to change the things that I can. And wisdom to know the difference between what I can and what I cannot."

Khera introduced his new book, 'Live While You Are Alive', emphasizing the importance of making conscious choices. "We are all free to the point of choice. But after we make our choices, the choice controls the chooser. We have no more choice." He explored the apparent contradiction between choice and compromise, illustrating how life is full of both.  He concluded by encouraging the audience to live fully and intentionally.

Khera’s session was a powerful reminder that success is not a matter of luck but a result of conscious choices, consistent habits, and unwavering dedication.