THE saying “born with a silver spoon” suggests that privileged birth can lead to contentment, thereby killing motivation. Conversely, those born poor often develop discontent, thereby sparking motivation. It can be said that such a person is born with an incentive spoon. Super-achievers are self-made, not products of inheritance. Parenting should focus on building self-confidence, as favouring can hinder it. It is not external favour that makes one a super-achiever, but one’s own struggle.

Many from humble backgrounds have become super-achievers through hard work. One shining example of this principle is Dr Nidhi Maganlal Patel. She is a practising dentist in Bengaluru. She pursued graduation and post-graduation in dental surgery and passed all her exams with flying colours. She ranked first in Gujarat University (MDS 2017).

Her life has been full of challenges. In her own words:

“I studied BDS and MDS from one of the most prestigious colleges of India, also known to be Asia’s largest hospital, Government Dental College Ahmedabad. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. My parents come from farmers’ background. They tirelessly worked towards providing the family and raising children with high morals. They taught me to give back to society however much I can. This training made me want to be a doctor.

Books were my companions from childhood. For me, each page was a bridge to the world that I craved.

Acing exams and scoring 1st rank was not enough. I volunteered at underprivileged clinics and honed my skills till they glittered. 6th rank amongst entire state was a consequence not an aim for me. Success is not a crown, but the ability to give back, one smile at a time. My story would whisper: Dreams like teeth, require constant care, but with enough grit, they shine.