Lavanya Patel, motivational speaker and renowned psychologist from Vapi in Gujarat, has said that motivating the self is necessary for achieving success. But sadly self-motivation is lacking in most people.

Ms. Patel describing motivation as a process of breaking inertia in a person whose mindset did not prefer change, though there was an opportunity for change. Ms. Patel in her hour-long session kept the audience enthralled and motivated them through inspirational stories, games and tasks.

The event was jointly organised by Hyderabad Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Jain Social Group, Kalaburagi, here on Sunday.

Explaining how to stay focussed to realise one’s dreams and decisions, all the while remaining positive and happy, she reiterated that “each one of us needs to motivate ourselves”.

Narrating a story, she explained that “our search for happiness has become ever more urgent in a competitive world, may be that is because happiness is so elusive.” “Yet are we even looking in the right place? Do we need to change direction or find a new approach,” she asked.

“Happiness is not something unattainable; it is an inseparable part of our consciousness, hidden and covered by our endless thoughts, desires and worries. We have to look within ourselves, beyond ideas and fantasies of the way life should be, beyond yearning for happiness through relationships or material things, to get to the wonder that lies within,” Ms. Patel added.

Explaining stress management techniques, she made a passing remark that parents are in a way responsible for the rising stress levels in students.

Earlier, speaking about women empowerment, Ms. Patel said that as women are the backbone of family and society, enhancement of entrepreneurial skills will lead to the overall development of society.

As professional entrepreneurs, women are truly living their dreams, she added.

BJP leader K.S. Eshwarappa inaugurated the event. HKCCI president Amarnath Patil was present.