Learning From Mistakes: Insights from the Bhagavad Gita and Modern Studies
How ancient wisdom and modern psychology guide us toward growth through self-reflection and mindfulness
Bhagavad Gita, Krishna states the importance of discernment ‘Viveka’ and encourages Arjuna to analyze his decisions, clearly draw a line between right and wrong, and learn from his mistakes.
echoes this truth with poetic clarity:
“One who fears mistakes does not repeatedly fall prey to them.
One who fears God is not engulfed by the darkness of sin.”
Swamiji’s words inspire a balanced approach — fear of mistakes, not as a paralyzing force, but as encouragement to prevent careless actions. With self-compassion and reflection, fear becomes growth.
This teaching is consistent with in psychology. Learning from past errors develops fortitude consequences, thus allowing a person to endure failure, creating avenues for advancement in life and spirituality.
Mistakes are never failures but a way of understanding oneself better and allowing one to encounter life in a much better manner.
