MENTAL STRENGTH REQUIRED FOR GIRLS TO ENTER DEFENCE FORCES
“The sky never asks if a girl is strong enough to fly- it is we, as parents and society, who must decide whether we will give her the strength to rise”
I am writing this quote with conviction having been there, up in the skies myself.
Let me introduce myself, I am Fight Lieutenant Namrata Chaturvedi, retired from the prestigious Indian Air Force as a Pilot after serving our nation for 10 glorious years.
My journey of joining the IAF also began with a dream, though with eyes open. I would often see my father in the Airforce uniform, and feel, I want to wear that one day. Fascination for the Uniform grew along with fascination to become a pilot and serve the country. Patriotism was not taught to us: me, my brother and sister. It was an inherent and integral part of our growing up. Though belonging to Rajasthan, my birth place is Assam and my schooling was all across the country. What better way of imbibing different cultures, languages, and traditions of different parts of our beautiful nation. I always had the sense of unity in diversity. My best friend from my younger days is from Assam and still in touch with me.
What makes it even more special is the fact that my parents always supported and encouraged us to follow our dreams and ambitions. They were so nurturing and loving that I knew I could take up any task, challenge or decision and they would stand by me. So, lets dig deeper to understand what does it take for a young girl to build the kind of mental strength first to dream and then to see the dream coming true, of joining the armed forces of our country.
First and foremost, the love for adventure, in a disciplined way. Being curious and exploratory about the world, about yourself and wanting to grow each day and continue to be of some contribution to nation strengthening. As parents, how do you encourage this? By setting the limits yes, but by also not micromanaging their affairs. Let them attempt, fail, learn and reattempt. Failure teaches us all the lessons which sometimes can’t be learnt with success.
Being present for them, when they ask for assistance and guidance. The balance is the key component. Too tight the rope, it will break, too lax, it wouldn’t work.
Providing opportunities, but in a subtle manner. It’s about creating certain challenges and daily life situations where the girls would want to test their abilities, face certain conditions in which they have to use their problem-solving skills, creativity and innovation. Mental strength begins where comfort ends. Encourage your daughters to step outside their comfort zones- whether it is trying a new sport, speaking in public, or solving problems independently.
So, for this you yourself will need to be a role model. Children would get a positive mindset from their parents’ achievements and accomplishments and that would encourage and motivate them in a remarkable way. Sharing your life’s stories and making them realize, everything is possible as each one of us is a living story of resilience, courage and determination. This has dual advantage, they realize that adaptability, innovation and acceptance are keys to improvement.
Discipline is the backbone of defense services. A structured routine- early rising, regular exercise, focused study- instills consistency and self-control. These habits quietly shape a strong and dependable mindset.
The ability to stay calm under pressure is what sets apart a good officer. Teach your daughters simple ways to manage stress- through reflection, constructive conversations and positive attitude. Emotional control is a very powerful form of strength.
Provide your daughters opportunities to lead- whether at home, in school or in group activities. Let them take decisions and take responsibility. Leadership is not taught overnight; it is nurtured over time.
Not to be overcritical or overdemanding of their choices and selections. Provide a general understanding of the expectations but be mindful in commenting about their selections.
With these core guidelines, each parent is capable of bringing out the best in their children’s lives and be a satisfied and content parent at the end of the day, for a job well done…
Strong daughters are not born- they are shaped by supportive homes, steady guidance, and the courage to let them grow through challenges. And when given that strength, they do not just chase the sky- they command it.
– FLT LT NAMRATHA CHATURVEDI (RETD)
