The Greatest Enemy Within: Assumptions, Expectations & Acceptance

By Mohan Krishna, Director, Indus IAS Academy, Bangalore

In the pursuit of success—whether in life, relationships, or competitive exams like the UPSC—many students focus on strategies, time management, and resources. But often, the true obstacle lies not outside, but within us. It comes silently, shaping our thoughts and emotions without our knowledge. It is a combination of three powerful forces: Assumptions, Expectations, and Acceptance—or rather, the lack thereof.

Let’s explore how these silent enemies can hold us back and what we can do about them.

1. The Trap of Assumptions

Assumptions are mental shortcuts. We assume someone understands us. We assume something will go wrong. We assume we are not good enough. Without evidence, these mental narratives begin to influence our decisions, reduce our confidence, and cloud our judgment.

In a UPSC aspirant’s journey, assumptions can be fatal.

• “This paper will be tough.”

• “I don’t belong here.”

• “Only English medium students can crack it.”

Such assumptions prevent you from even giving your best. The truth is, clarity and effort beat assumptions every single time.

Replace assumptions with inquiry. Ask, reflect, learn, and validate.

2. The Burden of Expectations

Expectations are the invisible weights we carry—expecting recognition, appreciation, or outcomes from people, systems, or results. We expect our families to understand our struggles. We expect friends to support us. We expect results from the effort—instantly.

But when these expectations are unmet, they lead to frustration, disappointment, and even depression.

In the UPSC world, this shows up when aspirants say:

• “I studied so hard, why didn’t I clear?”

• “My mentor should have guided me better.”

• “My family doesn’t understand what I’m going through.”

The truth is, no one owes us anything. Let that sink in.Expectations tie us to suffering. Effort without attachment leads to freedom.

Focus on the process, not the applause. Do your best and let go of the rest.

3. The Power of Acceptance (or Lack of It)

The world is what it is. People are who they are. Life unfolds in ways we can’t always predict or control.

When we refuse to accept reality, we create inner conflict.

• "Why is this happening to me?"

• "This is not fair."

• "I deserve better."

Acceptance doesn't mean passivity. It means seeing things as they are—and choosing your response with clarity. It’s the foundation of resilience.

For students, this means accepting setbacks, failures, and imperfections—not as labels, but as lessons.

Acceptance is not giving up; it’s showing up with peace in your heart.

The Real Inner Revolution

At Indus IAS Academy, we believe cracking UPSC is not just about syllabus completion, but also about mental evolution. It’s about becoming self-aware, emotionally strong, and intellectually honest.

Let go of assumptions—and start asking the right questions.Release expectations—and start working without attachment.Embrace acceptance—and start living with clarity and calm.

Because the greatest battle is not outside.It’s within. And once you win that, the rest will follow.

Mohan Krishna is the Director of Indus IAS Academy, Bangalore.

With years of experience mentoring civil service aspirants, he believes in a holistic approach to preparation—focusing not just on knowledge, but also mindset, discipline, and inner strength.