Shubhra Saxena’s It Matters A Lot: 5 Lessons on conscious living

On October 16, 2026, Shubhra Saxena’s book It Matters A Lot was launched at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. The book, published by Rupa Publications, delves into the concepts of self-awareness, conscious choices, and what imparts meaning to one’s life. The event was attended by notable figures from various fields including literature, diplomacy, academia, healthcare, and public service.

The book invites readers to ponder on five key lessons:

1. Success is not solely defined by conventional measures such as career progression, financial security, and status. Individuals should introspect whether their ambitions align with their personal desires or societal expectations. Rather than pursuing established milestones blindly, one should contemplate what genuinely brings purpose, fulfillment, and peace.

2. The formation of self-understanding begins during childhood and is influenced by various factors such as family relationships, parental expectations, and societal norms. These experiences can significantly impact how individuals navigate relationships, handle challenges, and perceive their own value. Acknowledging these formative influences helps in distinguishing between inherited beliefs and consciously chosen ones.

3. Decisions such as education, career choices, relationships, and family responsibilities are often swayed by social expectations. It is crucial to differentiate between personal preferences and pressures to meet others' standards. Conscious living does not necessitate rejecting all expectations or disregarding others; instead, it involves understanding the rationale behind decisions and accepting the consequences.

4. Cultivating empathy towards others can significantly enhance personal relationships. Recognizing one's own insecurities, emotional responses, and assumptions paves the way for understanding others' struggles, experiences, and perspectives. This awareness can alleviate conflicts, promote thoughtful communication, and foster a more compassionate society.

5. Life is unpredictable, and priorities may change over time. As individuals progress through different life stages, their perspectives on success and happiness may evolve. The book advocates for embracing change rather than clinging to outdated definitions of fulfillment. Accepting the inevitability of change enables a more adaptable and purposeful approach to life's transitions.