Patna: Students should choose careers based on their passion rather than salary and remain focused on their goals despite growing distractions from social media, author and motivational speaker Chetan Bhagat said at the Career Horizon Conclave 2026 in Patna.
Addressing students at SK Memorial Hall, Bhagat said success requires clarity of purpose and consistent effort. He encouraged young people to surround themselves with ambitious and positive-minded individuals who can contribute to their personal growth.
Career Should Reflect Passion, Not Just Income
Responding to questions on career planning, Bhagat suggested a simple way to identify the right profession.
“If every job in the world paid the same amount, the work you would still choose is probably the career meant for you,” he said.
He argued that a career should not be viewed solely as a source of income but as an expression of a person’s interests and long-term aspirations. Students, he said, should select fields where they can remain motivated for years.
Hard Work Creates Real Satisfaction
Bhagat told students that achievements earned through effort bring far greater satisfaction than things obtained easily.
He said people without clear goals often spend their time finding faults in others rather than improving themselves. Purpose, discipline and perseverance, he added, are essential for building a meaningful life.
According to him, challenges and struggles should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
Curiosity, Fitness and Learning Matter
Encouraging students to develop a growth mindset, Bhagat urged them to assess themselves regularly and embrace new challenges.
He highlighted the importance of maintaining curiosity and learning continuously. A healthy lifestyle, including adequate sleep and regular exercise, also plays a crucial role in success, he said.
Bhagat added that interacting with different people and gaining diverse experiences helps broaden perspectives and improve decision-making.
Beware of Negative Influences
The years after Class 10 and Class 12 are among the most important phases of a student’s life, Bhagat said, warning that many lose focus because of the company they keep.
He advised students to stay away from friends who discourage studies or encourage a carefree approach towards life. Maintaining discipline and remaining committed to long-term goals, he said, are key to achieving success.
Reduce Social Media Dependence
Expressing concern about excessive smartphone and social media use, Bhagat advised students to limit their online activities, particularly during crucial academic years.
He also appealed to parents to remain aware of their children’s digital habits and monitor the applications they use. At the same time, he cautioned adults against becoming overly dependent on mobile devices themselves.
‘Difficult Nights Build Bright Futures’
Concluding his nearly 90-minute address, Bhagat said there are no shortcuts to success.
He told students that a strong future is built through hard work, sacrifice and perseverance. Those who embrace challenges and continue working towards their goals despite setbacks are the ones most likely to achieve lasting success, he said.
