Encouraging students to become well-rounded: The key to confidence and achievement

Ameen Rihan (1876 – 1940), a Lebanese American writer, intellectual and political activist, once said: “Only a well-rounded intellect, a spirit nourished in the eternal sources of intelligence and culture, of justice and wisdom, is a safeguard against both indifference and skepticism.”
I have faith in these words and have been living by the same principles every day of my life. I hope these words will inspire you and your family members. We can guide students to become well-rounded individuals and contributing members of society.

Being well-rounded can benefit students in a multitude of ways and in various professional and personal aspects. Jacqueline Whitmore, Entrepreneur contributor, points out the ability of becoming great talkers and engaging in a range of topics. Job prospects continue to evolve and diversify, making imperative for anyone in today’s workforce to gain the ability to see things from different angles and prepare for new rewarding career avenues. Students are likely to achieve academic success when their projects are supported by research that is based on critical thinking and analytical skills. On a personal level, widening one’s own horizons allows for a better understanding of the world, gaining compassion, and improving their problem-solving abilities.
Let us also look at a couple of other examples from history.
Booker Taliaferro Washington (1856 –1915 ) was an American educator, author, orator, and advisor to presidents of the United States.
Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) was a social reformer, nurse, and health policy statistician. He was also a pioneer for women statisticians.

Thanks to their intellectual drive and knowledge, versatile people have achieved confidence, wisdom, and creativity, while refining their communication and interpersonal competences.

Here are some tips on how to embark in this journey and encourage students to take the same path:
1.    Read information about various topics and from multiple sources.
2.    Participate in community events and festivals.
3.    Listen and engage in meaningful conversations.
4.    Find out someone else’s perspective about life and personal goals.
5.    Share your own perspectives about life and personal goals.
6.    Think “outside the box.”
7.    Escape your comfort zone and try something new, even if it is only for a brief period of time.
8.    Travel any distance, if possible.
9.    Learn the importance of smiling and laughing for a healthy life.
10. Discover other techniques geared to wellbeing.
We can explore the wealth of opportunities before us and then be an inspiration to other people in our life. Our students will only grow fonder of what they find out in the process!