‘The Alchemist’ is a renowned novel by Paulo Coelho, originally published in 1988. It tells the enchanting tale of Santiago, a young shepherd who sets out on a journey to discover a hidden treasure. As he travels, he gains profound insights about life, destiny, and the importance of following one’s heart. With its straightforward style and rich symbolism, the book resonates deeply with anyone pursuing their dreams.
9 lessons to learn from Paulo Coelho's bestseller 'The Alchemist':
1) Your dreams are yours to chase
Santiago's life teaches us that we need to pursue our dreams and do it to the best of our abilities. At times people might not understand our dream, or support us through the journey, but it is important to go on for yourself.
2) Don't give up
Santiago's journey towards the 'treasure' was filled with challenges, but he didn't budge down and in the end, got what he dreamed and worked for. So, make sure to not quit and give up.
3) Face your fears, pull them down
Fear is a very strong emotion and can distract and scare the toughest people in their life. But, if you face them, fight against them, and pull them down, nothing will ever be able to stop you.
4) Listen to your heart
The heart plays an important role in the book as Santiago learns that while his heart can be confusing or even fearful, it also knows what truly makes him happy. So, listen to your heart, add a little reason to it, and apply it to life.
5) Love the journey and the destination
During Santiago's hunt for treasure, the journey was as important as the final reward. So, enjoy the process, learn through the experiences, and take lessons throughout.
6) There is power in faith
Faith is very important in our life's journey. You need to believe that there is an energy above you that guides you in the right direction at the right times.
7) Set aside your comfort zone
Throughout his life, Santiago could have lived a 'Shepherd' life like others around him and stayed in comfort. But, it was his first step outside the shepherd's life that earned him the treasure he seeked.
8) Love matters
Be it Santiago's love for his sheep, or for Fatima, it all mattered in the end. Love, no matter in which form, helps us in pursuing our dreams, supports us, and motivates us to be better.
9) Live in the present
Throughout the book, Santiago learns to live in the moment. Instead of worrying about what he has left behind, or about what he might or might not achieve, he appreciates the things he has in the moment.
Quotes from the alchemist that whisper to the dreamer:
"When you want something, all the universe helps you to get it."
"It's the possibility of a dream coming true that makes life interesting."
"Don't give up. Usually, it's the last key in the bunch that opens the lock."
"One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed."
"Listen to your heart. It knows all things."
"People learn early in their lives what is their reason for being."
"To realise one's destiny is a person's only real duty."
"The fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself."
"Wherever your heart is, there is your treasure."
Source: Times of India
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
