Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, shared the story of his 13 year struggle in learning to write, as well as his struggle to be able to speak in public in the ESQ Leadership Forum held in BSD, Saturday (5/24). In the inspiring session, Prof Arif emphasized the importance of growth mindset, will power, and perseverance (grit) in achieving dreams.
In front of the participants, Prof Arif said that it took him 13 years to see his writing appear in public. He told how he was repeatedly rejected by campus and off-campus media.
However, his father’s message reminding him to keep practicing always rang. His determination paid off when in the fifth semester of college, his writing was published for the first time.
“That’s a great honor. Not because of the writing, but because of the struggle. Now my writing can enter regional, national, international journals, even I was interviewed by the media, TV, it was a 13 year process, extraordinary patience, “ he said.
Not only about writing, Prof Arif also shared about his struggle in public speaking. He admitted that when he was in school it was difficult to speak in front of other people.
However, a big dream to become a public speaker continues to encourage him. One of them was when he attended seminars and forums.
“Every time I sat in a seminar, I could only marvel at the speakers. In my heart I said: ‘I want to be like them.’ Even though at that time, I couldn’t even speak,” he said.
Although doubted, even by his own family, Prof Arif finally chose the Agricultural Extension Communication Study Program (Prodi) at IPB. This is because the study program is believed to be able to help him appear to convey his ideas in front of the public.
“I chose this major not because I could already speak, but because I wanted to be able to speak. If I don’t force myself, I will never grow,” he said.
Prof Arif also consulted a psychologist for some time. From various sessions, he received simple advice from the psychologist that changed his life.
“Change your mindset, that this is not your obstacle, this is your potential,” said Prof Arif repeating the advice from his psychologist.
Since then, he has continued to train himself and build the belief that abilities can be honed if you have a strong will. Prof Arif also explained the difference between fixed mindset and growth mindset, and how a strong will can lead humans to opportunities.
“If I had a fixed mindset, I would have stopped long ago. But because I believe that willpower is more important than ability, I continue to learn. The key word is will power,” he said. (IAAS/ASY)
