Art and literature: An imperative than a choice for students

Embracing art and literature is an investment in their mental wellbeing tomorrow—an invaluable asset for their future life

Many decades ago, when I opted to take literature in college, at a time when many of my peers chose science, people raised their brows. It was believed to be the choice of the mediocre, a subject that didn’t need much of an intellect or dedication. It was where students who didn’t secure a seat in prime areas finally settled. Art and literature weren’t considered durable then. Neither is it given much weightage now by parents.

Creative pursuits are still categorised as hobbies, and they get sidelined as children reach higher grades or enter college. Why? Because art is not sustainable. It is not lucrative. It doesn’t build careers as easily as a degree in science, technology or accounting does. There still may be some truth in that contention prompting parents to wean off their children from extracurricular activities as the race to the future heats up. But the role of creative activities in providing our children with a respite from the stress of career-building cannot be undermined. At a time when they are grappling with the challenges of higher education, what might bring them respite from their anxieties are artistic endeavours. It is often in the lines of a sketch or the verses of a poem that children find a voice beyond words—a silent yet powerful release of their inner thoughts and emotions. In a world that measures success by exams and marks, these activities provide a refuge, where the mind is free to wander, explore, and create without boundaries. Studies have consistently shown that students who engage in painting, writing, music, dance or theatre experience lower stress levels than those who do not.

These activities act as a counterbalance to the rigid schedules and deadlines that studies impose, allowing children to unwind and channel their energies into something entirely their own. One of the often overlooked merits of art and literature is the development of emotional intelligence. When children immerse themselves in stories, they begin to understand complex emotions, both their own and those of others. A novel might teach empathy, while a piece of music might mirror feelings they struggle to articulate. These moments foster self-awareness, which is critical in today’s fast-paced world where young people are grappling with social pressures and academic demands. These creative pursuits don’t just make children more empathetic; they also teach them to become aware of their inner world—a skill that will serve them well beyond the walls of a classroom.

In those moments when they feel overwhelmed, they can turn to the comfort of a favourite book, the joy of drawing, or the calm of journaling. It becomes a personal ritual, a way to recharge and refresh, like finding shelter from the storm within the pages of a story or the hues of a canvas. Extracurricular activities such as dance, music, fine art and creative writing are not mere pastimes; they are crucibles where life skills are forged. Problem-solving, adaptability, and innovation—all essential skills in adulthood—find their roots in these pursuits. Children learn patience through practice, resilience through failure, and confidence through expression, creating a sturdy foundation that will support them through life’s inevitable challenges. Parents and educators must recognise the role these activities play in a child’s mental and emotional development.

Fostering a balanced approach between academics and extracurricular interests can create resilient individuals who are not only high achievers but also happy, healthy humans. As life’s pressures mount, these creative expressions transform into anchors, grounding us in times of stress and rekindling the joy we may have set aside in the haste of growing up.

Seeking validation: A necessity more than an add-on to our vanity

Though contentment offers a deep sense of inner peace, validation serves as a crucial motivator

Much to the contrary of the popular belief about happiness being commensurate with the degree of material success, my late father asserted that the key to happiness lies in contentment. Both views have their share of advocates, the former often relying on validation from outside, and the latter, a more philosophical contention anchored in an irrevocable sense of self-assurance.

The philosophy of contentment is a long shot for many of us embroiled in making it materialistically big, and we tend to seek a lot of external validation to determine our core worth. Maybe, the philosophies are based on two entirely different life principles and the value of neither can be dismissed. Success has its sweet trimmings and contentment has its merit, and both may be equally coveted.

What distinguishes one from the other is the element of endorsement we crave for our endeavours. Even the most self-assured person looks for acceptance and recognition, and there is no shame in it. Validation from others is indeed required for us to stay on course, not simply for the ego boost it brings but also for the motivation it gives us to strive and march forward in making a mark in the world. The more sagacious ones among us may, however, hold a different view. I have heard several suggestions that we should not seek approval from others and instead rely solely on our inner convictions.

While this notion seems noble, it underestimates a fundamental human need—to feel seen, heard, and acknowledged by those around us.

To deny the significance of external validation is to ignore an essential part of the human experience. Whether we realise it or not, the approval we seek from others has a profound impact on our self-perception and our efforts to succeed.

When someone validates our work, it serves as a confirmation that we are on the right track. It is a form of recognition that can affirm our abilities, encourage us to push further, and give us the confidence to take risks that we might otherwise avoid.

Take, for instance, the world of creative endeavours. Writers, artists, musicians—those of us in professions where the outcomes are subjective—often look to their audiences for validation. It’s not just about ego or pride. When someone appreciates a piece of art or writing, it signals to the creator that their expression has resonated with others, creating a connection.

It is this recognition that gives an artist the courage to continue crafting, to improve, and to share their innermost thoughts with the world. Without that validation, their passion might wither in isolation. In professional contexts, validation can often come in the form of promotions, awards, or even just a simple “well done.” These acknowledgements are crucial motivators.

They tell us that our efforts matter, that our contributions are recognised, and that we are moving in the right direction. While self-belief is vital, external acknowledgement adds weight to that belief, making it more tangible. It confirms that our skills and efforts are seen as valuable by others, which can propel us toward even greater heights. Furthermore, seeking validation is not just about personal gain—it also creates a cycle of mutual encouragement.

When we validate others, we lift them, creating a supportive environment where everyone’s contributions are acknowledged.

It doesn’t just boost their morale; it strengthens their commitment to the work they’re doing. Of course, we must also be wary of relying solely on external validation. The danger lies in over-dependence, where we begin to measure our worth only by what others say.

Emojis speak where texting falls short

Emojis transform otherwise bland exchanges into vibrant and meaningful interactions

I am a huge fan of emoticons, or emojis, as I prefer to call them. In a new, technically robust world that chooses to conduct most of its private and professional business digitally, the existence of emojis is a lot more valuable than what they seems primary. Emojis fill the gap between one’s feelings [thoughts] and words; they arch over the space where misunderstandings breed unintentionally. The trouble with texting is it, more often than not, conveys meanings not meant. The true import of the statements is often dispensed with an unsavoury blandness. Words, for all the power they have, are restricted in their ability to convey true emotions. There is no tone or tenor in a conversation that happens over a typed chat. It is here that the emojis take charge to let people know the precise sentiment behind the words. It’s fascinating how something as simple as a tiny, colourful image can carry the weight of an entire conversation.

Emojis have become the silent saviours of our digital dialogues, transforming what could be a dry exchange into something vibrant, relatable and meaningful. I have always believed that words, despite their richness, sometimes falter in delivering the exact shade of sentiment we wish to express. How many times have we sent a message and then wondered; Will they get what I mean? Will they feel my warmth, my concern, or my light-heartedness? Emojis step in at this point, like little emotional cue cards, guiding the recipient towards the intended feeling behind our words.

A simple smiley can transform a blunt response into a kind reassurance. It acts as a gentle nudge, hinting to the reader, “Take it easy; this is friendly.” Emojis allow us to soften the blows of formality, sprinkle humour on otherwise serious subjects, or underline the gravity of what would otherwise seem trivial. Consider this: You’ve sent a message that says, “Let’s talk later.” Now, depending on the mood of the person on the other side, it could be read as indifferent, abrupt, or even ominous. But if you add a little smiley at the end, the vibe changes entirely. Suddenly, it sounds casual, almost warm. This is the magic of emojis — they are the unseen bridges in our communication, preventing misunderstandings. They fill in the emotional blanks that text leaves behind. In this world where we don’t always get the luxury of hearing someone’s voice or seeing their expressions, emojis have quietly become the body language of our conversations. They provide a way to infuse our cold, typed words with a cozy connection. That’s where their real value lies, and why I, as someone deeply in love with words and their power, have come to appreciate the humble emoji. Moreover, in a globally connected world where language barriers can stand between intent and interpretation, emojis offer a universal code. A thumbs-up or a heart means the same whether you’re in Dubai or Delhi, making them incredibly effective in fostering inclusivity and understanding.

As I continue my writing journey, both in traditional and digital spaces, I find myself more often turning to emojis to complement my words, especially when texting or communicating over social media. They are the small, unspoken allies in my digital interactions, helping me stay connected, relatable, and, most importantly, understood. In a time when misunderstandings are as quick as a keystroke, I’ve come to appreciate emojis as more than just playful symbols. They are, in many ways, the unsung heroes of modern communication, making sure that what we feel and what we say are in sync. And that’s a role too important to ignore.