Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing

The editors and contributors of this book met at Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh, India, a period spanning from 2017 to 2021. At the end of 2021, we all gradually moved in different directions, each following our unique pathways shaped by our evolving contours of life.

However, what remained constant was our bond. As a group of like-minded individuals with unique personalities, we formed a bond at this institution that endures and call ourselves the “CMH (Centre of Management and Humanities) Family.” From the words of Cdr Dr Avikshit – “A group that comprises the most elegant people with the rarest of the rarest combination created by God’s grace.” This group was led by Dr Sharda Kaushik, who was the head of the department at that time, the pillar, soul, and heart of this group. The leadership and grace she provided us have been unmatched. Therefore, we continue to call ourselves “Sharda Ma’am’s Extended Family.”

Despite our diverse fields, as academics, we bring perspectives on finding meaning in life through the tapestry of our life experiences, shaped by life, identity, and our evolving consciousness. Though time and distance scattered us into different directions and across the globe, we have come together once again, not just to write, but to reflect on what it means to be human. Through this book, we share stories of self, existence, and the unfolding rhythms of life. We invite readers to walk beside us by reading the words on each page of this book.

This book is close to our heart and soul, and we hope that, as readers, you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed writing it.

Dr Noor Rizvi, Dr Gitanjaly Chhabra, and Dr Prihana Vasishta

This book is a multidisciplinary collection of chapters, an anthology that brings together diverse voices from the United States, Canada, and India to explore the evolving dimensions of human thought and experience. In an ever-changing world, the complexity of human experience can rarely be understood through a single lens. Spanning fields such as psychology, ecology, linguistics, gender studies, aesthetics, finance, spirituality, and philosophy, the book offers rich perspectives on how individuals and societies navigate identity, meaning, and transformation in contemporary times.

The book’s stories and ideas offer diverse perspectives on how individuals and societies construct their identities, find meaning, and adapt in the modern world. The writers reflect on both personal journeys and broader global themes, including inner growth, mindfulness, self-discovery, environmental stewardship, language differences, and the pursuit of financial freedom. Interweaving both theories and real-life stories, the book calls upon readers to examine not just the self but also the ways the self interacts with the world, seeking meaning in our individual and collective existence.

At the heart of this book lies the power of multidisciplinary insights. Each chapter offers a unique perspective, but together they form a cohesive narrative about human growth and transformation.

Through the lens of linguistic analysis, we delve into how language weaves the fabric of our identities, shaping how we present ourselves and connect with others. It draws our attention to the interplay between language and nature, urging us to recognise the power of words and the deep, often unspoken, connection between the language we use and the world we inhabit. Additionally, a poignant analysis of words that harm women adds depth by exploring how communication shapes societal roles and individual agency. The study of aesthetic perception challenges us to reconsider the role of beauty and self-expression in our lives, asking how we define and experience the world through our senses.

From a psychological perspective, we delve into the emotional and cognitive dimensions of success and self-realisation. It also illuminates how mindfulness, a practice of presence and self-awareness, can serve as a transformative force, leading to greater peace and clarity in an often chaotic world. Additionally, the field of finance introduces us to the practical realities of life, focusing on the decisions we make and how they shape our future.

Finally, philosophy provides the frameworks for understanding how we navigate the complexities of personal and professional life. It offers a philosophical perspective on life’s direction and purpose – an exploration of a contemporary journey of self-meaning-making. It also throws light on how, in the vastness of existence, we might find our way, guided by both external and internal forces.

Together, these disciplines invite us into a deeper understanding of human existence. Each perspective enriches the other, offering complementary tools for navigating the challenges and opportunities of life. By blending practical aspects with philosophical understanding, this book offers a multidimensional approach to growth that is both thought-provoking and transformative.

Overall, with a mix of personal reflections, research, and practical examples, the book invites us to think critically about the world and ourselves. At its heart, this book is about navigating all this complexity. It brings together diverse fields and viewpoints to remind us that no single perspective can encompass the full range of human experience. The book acts as a mirror and a map, encouraging us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deeper forces shaping our lives and society.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the contributors of the book Ways of Seeing, Ways of Being: Reflections on Life, Mind, and Perception, whose diverse and thought-provoking chapters made this interdisciplinary volume possible. Your academic insight and dedication have shaped this book into a meaningful interdisciplinary dialogue.

A special note of thanks to Cdr Dr Avikshit, whose guidance and vision sparked the initial idea for this collaborative endeavour. His thoughtful suggestions and continuous encouragement have been instrumental in shaping the direction of this book.

We are equally grateful to Dr Sharda Kaushik for her consistent support and collaborative spirit throughout this journey. Her contributions and motivation have added immense value to this project.

We also thank our co-editors and reviewers for their time, feedback, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.