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It was last night that I had finished reading Edward de Bono's masterpiece titled How to Have a Beautiful Mind. The book is truly an eye-opener, especially for all those who believe that arguing and dominating others are the only known ways of winning.

The book has a simple central idea - having a beautiful face or body isn't enough; in fact, they are of no use if you don't have a beautiful mind! So, How to... discusses techniques which can help the reader come up with innovative ways to look at things and create something constructive out of them. In this way, one can become a master of his/her thoughts and channelize them in a constructive direction.

Some of the principles mentioned in the book are as follows:

1. When you are in a conversation with someone, don't just nod your head in agreement all the time. Nor should you argue about something you disagree with. Find out the area of difference and take the dialogue ahead. Find out from where does the other person hail, what was and is his environment like, what are his likes and dislikes, etc.
2. After finding out the area of difference, find out its source.
3. Keep yourself informed and updated. Ask the right questions.
4. Listen carefully to the other person. Don't ever be in a hurry to interrupt him for expressing yourself.
5. The main objective of any discussion should be to arrive at concrete solutions, not to argue and give vent to your ego.

Sorry, I won't be discussing any more principles here because Edward de Bono does that in a much better way in the book. However, it's a given that both sides stand to lose in an argument. So a constructive approach to seek solutions is the only way of building bridges and better relationships.

I found stark similarities between this book and the blockbuster Bollywood movie 3 Idiots. Both have a similar message to deliver - focus your attention solely on creating solutions. This brings in excellence and innovation to the fore. I wish the patrons of our education system (including parents) read this book - it'll help restore the mental peace of millions of members of our student community!

Remember, no self-help or management book in the world can solve your problems. It's you - your mind and how you effectively tap it and apply it - that will eventually make you a winner. Control your emotions, be a master of your thoughts and think about the positive aspects only. And whatever you want will be within your reach...because it's only a beautiful mind that attracts the most beautiful things in life...