You know his political philosophy of non violence and non co-operation changed the world in the last century. But even at a deeply personal level, Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings and the way he lived can be a terrific guide for you to lead a happier, more productive life. Here’s how.

1. Don’t Chase Material Possession.

When Gandhiji died, this was pretty much what he owned.
In the pursuit of material wealth we often forget that we will have to leave all this behind when we go to meet our maker. Try and limit your possession to less than 100 things. Instead spend your time and money learning new things, pursuing a hobby, travelling and sharing your wealth with the less fortunate.

2. Eat simple food and in moderation

Gandhiji ate in a small bowl and so could measure how much he consumed. He had a simple vegetarian diet and often cooked his own food. So keep that in mind when you binge on junk food or spend a bomb on fondue or foie gras! Besides, if you eat right, you won’t have weight issues and the associated health risks.

3. Don’t Stress.

Gandhiji never took undue stress. He stayed calm and relaxed at all times. Often meditating to relieve tension. Sometimes even between critical meetings with world leaders, he used to take a break to play with children.

4. Think positive

When negative thoughts enter your head, think of what Gandhiji once famously said: “A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” So stay positive and all your troubles will feel much smaller

5. See the good in people around you and try to help others

When you see the good in others, you feel like helping them. They in turn then help others thereby creating a spiral of positive energy. Remember when you do good, you feel good.

6. Forgive.

Anger and resentment are only going to hurt you more than the other. Learn to forgive and forget, because as Gandhiji said “An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind.” Also you will feel good about yourself cos “The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”

7. Live like there’s no tomorrow

What’s the point of worrying so much about the future and ruining the present in the bargain? No, that’s not an invitation to stop work and get drunk! It means do something today that will count. Gandhiji said: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

8. Stay grounded.

No matter how big you are today, you might have a mightly fall tomorrow. So stay humble and treat everyone with charity and respect. After all you might meet them again on your way down.

9. Don’t let other people affect your mood and actions.

The secret to happiness is derived from the realization that no one but you can control the way you feel. So don’t blame others for your foul mood. If you want to stay positive, you will.

10. Change yourself before you try and change others

You can blame the government, the neighbours or your parents for your misfortune. But at the end of the day, it’s only You who can change your world. Change the way you think and act and you will devise new ways to tackle problems. And slowly the world will seem a much better place.

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