I Have The Controls: Get off Life’s Autopilot and take control of your destiny

by Manish Kumar

In this inspirational fiction the author talks about the unlimited power and potential lying dormant in every soul, waiting to be awakened. The moment we become aware of the power within, we stop being a victim of circumstances, get off the autopilot called fate and take the reins of life in our hands. 'I Have The Controls' is about the journey of a boy from a small town who realises his dream of becoming a pilot, learns the lessons of life on the way and goes on to inspire others to follow their dreams. His Flying Instructor implants wisdom into the flying lessons and teaches him to take the flight of faith. The book shows the way - how, by aligning personal desires to the benefit for mankind, it is possible to lead a deeply rich and satisfying life. Using flying as a metaphor, Manish Kumar has penned this extremely enjoyable story. Peppered with the author's insights, this book is sure to touch and inspire you to break the shackles of self-limiting beliefs and to take off in life. Foreword by John Harricharan I lead a very busy life and generally cannot answer the tens of thousands of emails that come to me every month. Much as I would like to respond, it's almost practically impossible. And so it was that I came upon a note sent to me by Manish Kumar. I don't quite remember when it started, but I kept seeing his name here and there, sometimes on my FaceBook page, other times through something a dear friend, Yasminder Verdi, would mention in an email. And that is how I got to know Manish. It is not that we had met or had daily conversations. After all, he lives on the other side of the planet from where I am. It's more like his spirit was shining so brightly through his words and across the miles that I had to stop and take note. I am happy, very happy that I did. Why am I happy about this? Because I was given an opportunity to discover a rare treasure. You see, Manish had written a book called "I Have the Controls." He was kind enough to send me a draft copy to look at. I thought I would just glance through it, but then, as I started reading, I could not put it down. Manish uses the metaphor of flying to bring us some of the most life-affirming messages possible. In simple language, he leads us into a world where we find the gentle hints of that which we need to know. His chapter, "It's all about balance" as well as his formula for success, which he refers to as "IVR" would help anyone to reach goals that may have seemed unreachable. And, NO, I will not tell you what "IVR" stands for. You will have to find out for yourself and experience the thrill of discovery, just as I did. You will be happy that you found the formula. In some ways, "I Have the Controls" reminds me of one of my favorite authors, Richard Bach. Richard's books such as "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and "Illusions" sit in a special place on my favorite bookshelf. I go there often for guidance and wisdom. Manish's book will be in that same, special bookshelf. My suggestion is that you get yourself a copy of this book, read and reread it. I think you'll find the answers to problems that have been challenging you for quite a while. And while you are at it, pick up a copy for someone near and dear to you. Share it with those you love. They will be grateful, very grateful. Thank you, Manish. Thank you for sharing your insights with us. Thank you for writing a book that has the potential of changing many lives. And thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it. I look forward to reading your future books. I am sure many others will, also. John Harricharan is a world-renowned speaker, mentor, life teacher, author of the bestseller When You Can Walk On Water, Take the Boat and an incredible human being. "John Harricharan leads us along the enchanted path of enlightenment with magic, charm, love and compassion." -Dr. Deepak Chopra, author and

124 pages, Paperback

First published February 3, 2011

About the author

Manish Kumar, Air Force veteran pilot is a powerful, internationally known speaker, trainer, consultant, writer, and publisher who walks his talk. In his keynote speeches, he shares his quick and accurate thinking as a pilot, and demonstrates how to rise in most difficult times and live life with conviction.
He is an alumnus of NDA and XLRI and the author of the best-selling book "Be Your Own Pilot" which is being appreciated internationally.

He is impaneled as the Mental Training Expert of Sports Authority of India for the mental conditioning of Olympic athletes and other sportsmen. He is also an internationally recognized Motivational Speaker and has spoken to the executives of Fortune 500 companies like Reliance Jio, SBI, HPCL, IOC, M&M, MNC-Crowe Horwath, to the trainee officers of State Judicial Academy, Indian Institute of Coal Management, Institute of Cost Accountancy and also to students of various colleges, institutes and schools including Salmiya Indian Model School, Kuwait.

He has appeared on Doordarshan, Inner Child Radio (US), AIR, Radio Dhoom, Dhamaal, Mantra, and BIG FM. He is on the editorial board of the magazine FLY HIGH and he writes a motivational column in the newspaper.
He was awarded the Chief of Air Staff Commendation medal for rescuing the lives of 12people in Search and Rescue missions.

Reviews

[Abhilash Ruhela · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a long time I have seen the updates related to this book named "Be Your Own Pilot" but I always thought that it would be kind of repetitive autobiographical incidents in the life of a man related to army or navy as the book is written by Retired Sqn. Leader Manish Kumar. I always thought that its a pure fiction story based on his own life but after reading this book which is based on the lines of Robin Sharma's The Monk who sold his Ferrari, I can say that it's a book which you should definitely read if you love reading self-help and motivational books. With the simplicity and spirit in which it's written, it makes your journey of reading even more inspiring and eye-opening.

Manish Kumar ensures that each and every word that he wants to convey reaches exactly in the same meaning to his readers. Therefore, the language used by him is very easy even when he tries to make us understand the nuances of flying a plane. I liked how he successfully related our lives with that of riding a plane. He tries to teach us basic rules which can make us better, confident, successful, leader and happy by describing how he grew into a leader from a learner in just 12 years. Manish Kumar should write more such books and assure that there is enough motivation in our youths. Not many Indian writers manage to write a book which is motivational but still interesting. Manish Kumar have definitely won his seat here.

Be Your Own Pilot teaches us about how to not let ourself ruled by heavy challenges and impossible situations. It tells us that it's in our hand how we want to ride our life by using our common sense, intuition, sixth sense, by valuing time and being humble. It tells us to possess many such traits which we do not in ego and overconfidence. I liked how author began his story and tells about the insult he has to undergo because of which he even decides to quit the job of pilot. Later on, I liked how he takes us in back story where he tells how he got committed to a girl and even managed to go at our home to ask for her hand from her father. But I am disappointed as author didn't take the protagonist back to the girl for marriage. :-) Nevertheless, there's no difference in the quality reading that the book offers. Definitely, a light read but with heavy messages. Recommended!

Thanks.

ABHILASH RUHELA - VEERU!!!

[Deepak K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although there are lots of books published in this genre every year around the world, this one is no run-of-the-mill creation. The book “Be Your Own Pilot” is a marvel among the self improvement books that have been published lately. Written by a veteran pilot of the Indian Air force, the book is a single point of reference a person would ever need as the source of the ultimate mantra for success in all walks of life.

I have written a detailed review of the Be Your Own Pilot on my blog.

[Susavi Sinha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished reading this book in a day! It was such a page turner. Every page was like a personal experience. It surely took me back to my flying days at flight school. Flying is an extraordinarily beautiful experience and there is no question about it, but all my life it never dawned upon me to ever see flying as a life changing metaphorically "spiritually awakening" activity. It is a bliss but its in so many ways a teacher of not how to fly planes, but of life. This book introduced me to the dimension of flying that was so far undiscovered by me. Also, Mitra's living embodiment was my CFI and it just brought a smile on my face everytime Mitra was introduced. Take me on this my CFI was his carbon copy!

[Michael McCafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely little book finally made it to the top of my 'must-read' stack, and I must say it was a delightful experience. It reminded me so much of my own experiences in learning to fly, but more importantly reminded me of the many lessons in learning to Live a purposeful Life.

[Prakhyath Rai · Rating 5 out of 5]

GET OFF LIFE'S AUTOPILOT AND TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DESTINY...

Half of our lives we neglect heath to gain wealth and then spend wealth to gain health. Most of us do not even know our children's friends. In the death bed, No one wants more money or materials, all that one wants is more time with their loved ones. You are young now, Try to have balance in life son and you will be automatically successful.

"A lot of people give up when they are just one step short of success.......Are you going to give up just because somebody else doesn't have faith in your abilities; because somebody else does not want you to succeed? "

Author Manish kumar has written this brilliant book 'Be your own pilot'.

"In this inspirational fiction, Manish Kumar talks about the unlimited power and potential lying dormant in every soul, waiting to be awakened. The moment we become aware of the power within, we stop being a victim of circumstances, get off the autopilot called fate and take control of our life.

'Be your own Pilot' is about the journey of a boy from a small town who realizes his dream of becoming a pilot, learns the lessons of life on the way and goes on to inspire others to follow their dreams. His Flying Instructor implants wisdom into the flying lessons and teaches him to take the flight of faith. The book shows the way – how, by aligning personal desires to the benefit for mankind, it is possible to lead a deeply rich and satisfying life.

Using flying as a metaphor, Manish Kumar has penned this extremely enjoyable story. Peppered with the author's insights, this books is sure to touch and inspire you to break the shackles of self-limiting beliefs and to take off in life. "

The story starts with a small town guy reaching to the cockpit and taking care of a plane- handling the joystick and with affirmation says "Yes, I have the controls".

One of the key take away of this book are IVR (Idealize, Visualize and Realize).

Foe example, you want to build a good family.

First you need to Idealize, Imagine the most ideal situation- understanding and lovely wife, healthy kids , a nice house and a good car.Feel you being happy. Idealize the happy outcome and how satisfied you will be after this happens.
The second step is to visualize - Feel the things required to do this particular thing. Finding the right one, getting married, family planning. You can also create a vision board, put your gf pics, your ideal home pics.
The third step is to realize- realize what you have visualized- but the important thing about IVR is you have to believe completely that you can do it.
The initial part of this book resembles like the movie 'Whiplash' where his mentor smacks his face- I highly recommend this movie- It has been my recent favorites.

The conversation between his lovers dad and the protagonist was something magical and definitely will stay in my mind where his Lovers dad says "My daughter is a strong headed girl and if you really want her, you will have to be at least good as me, if not better , both as an officer and as a gentleman, as a professional and as a human being" This could be the greatest tip for a happy relationship.

I liked how the author introduced the concept of Satori

If you freeze water to -273 degree Celsius , it will never get back to liquid form . Similarly there will be a moment in your life when you will be transformed forever. This happens in a moment and when it happens - it is Satori.

The author uses simple words to describe how to treat time as your most precious commodity- you can get back anything but not the lost time. Author further gives a good difference between a leader and a guru. The leader leads by example , he teaches 'what to' but a guru teaches 'how to'.
This book is also filled with motivational poems and short stories.

Enjoyed Reading and Its a life changer- No Doubt.

Read the complete review here:
http://www.merrybrains.com/book-revie...

Request for review at admin@merrybrains.com

[Sigy George · Rating 3 out of 5]

GET OFF LIFE'S AUTOPILOT AND TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DESTINY...

I am not a big fan of self-help or motivational books. Since rarely has any book in the genre affected me enough to bring about change. Yes people have been inspired by the likes of Robin Sharma and Rhonda Byrne. I too have devoured their books in the hope that I would get some succour in pacing my life the way I want it to be. The initial days after reading were good but I could not apply them fully to me life and they remain somewhere in the background of my memory. I do brush them up time to time but they are not constant.
So I was apprehensive when I first started " Be Your Own Pilot". I was curious to know how a combat plane pilot could offer success mantra or a guide to pilot our own lives. And I was not disappointed. The blurb behind the book rightfully expresses the book in a nutshell:
"In this inspirational fiction, Manish Kumar talks about the unlimited power and potential lying dormant in every soul, waiting to be awakened. The moment we become aware of the power within, we stop being a victim of circumstances, get off the autopilot called fate and take control of our life.

'Be your own Pilot' is about the journey of a Sqn. Ldr. Manish Kumar who hails from a small town and had dreams of becoming a pilot. In the Flying School, his Flying Instructor instills wisdom and acumen into his flying lessons and teaches him to take the flight of faith. Using flying as a metaphor, Manish Kumar has penned his journey from a learner to a leader. The simplicity and sincerity with which the book has been written will surely touch your heart and mind, and inspire you to break the restraints of self-limiting beliefs and to take off in life. There are similarities with Rhonda Byrne's " Secret", but the way the idea of visualisation is articulated it's easier to understand and apply in life.
Some passages which I felt had an impact on me are:
"I have the controls."

"You are not given a dream without the power to achieve it".

The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night".-H W Longfellow

"It's all a matter of attitude...it's so easy to do and think as others, but it requires guts to do the contrary, to walk your own path and to think your own thoughts and this courage comes from having the right attitude. More often than not our attitude is set by others; it should instead be set by our own values and our core beliefs...Our success in life also depends on our attitude. We often try and take off in life at full throttle after setting our goals and making all preparations, but if our attitude is not correct , we'' barely be able to leave the ground, or worse, we might even crash into oblivion."
"Look at your life. Is it in balance?.... A few of us give our best time and energy to our jobs and businesses and one day come back to an empty house."
" The most important thing is to do the process of IVR(idealise, visualise, realize) without an iota of doubt in your mind. If you believe it will happen, it is sure to happen. If you say it several times but have doubts whether your dreams will come true, you can be sure they won't."

" Think about it, whenever you have to provide an excuse for something, it is only for failure. No one makes excuses for success."

"...Are you going to give up just because somebody else does not have faith in your abilities, because somebody else does not want you to succeed?..."

"You cannot be worthy Leader, if you are not a good follower".

The leader leads by example , he teaches 'what to' but a guru teaches 'how to'.
This book is also filled with motivational poems and short stories.

Enjoy Reading .

[Pankaj Joshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, when u spend a quality time with the author u get so much beyond a book. Manish Sir is truly an amazing person. What an energy this man possesses. That’s what has manifested in this book. This book is full of energy. It calls upon your sleeping soul and gives you Goosebumps. The most beautiful part of this book is its simplicity. Manish Sir using metaphors of flight, touching everyone’s life. Yes we all need to take control of our life. I finished the book in one sitting. And when I was done, he was standing beside me and I just said one word to him “WOW”. An Unputdownable Treasure. Thanks Sir for all your guidance. I am lucky to have you around as a source of inspiration. A great Mentor. Your undying habit of learning gives me goal for life. Keep doing the good work. Best wishes for the next “Best-Seller”.
And yes…. People! Just get it without a doubt and enjoy an amazing journey of soul-awakening.

[Rajesh Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A lot of people give up when they are just one step short of success........ Are you going to give up just because somebody else doesn't have faith in your abilities; because somebody else does not want you to succeed? " - 'Be your own Pilot' is filled with such encouraging and thought provoking lines. It reminded me of times when I fought to achieve or gave up and lost out on something in my life.. I am short of words to review this book, it is an experience that everyone ought to read!

[Mazhar H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating

This book is amazing. I admire when the books uses metaphor of flying , this fascinates me. Author had impressive way of explaining things and relating it to the life. Being a rookie I can connect exactly what he faced initially in my own field. When u hear the voices of someone who was already faced and aced the situation with flying colors u draw inspiration from him. I expect the author to write sequel for this.

[Saurabh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Mr. Manish for motivating us to leave the life's attitude of "Let It Go, Situations will handle it" (The Auto-Pilot mode), and to chase our dream and change our destiny the way we want (I have The Controls). The way he has explained and structured the content related to his flying experience is great.
Each chapter in this book gives a unique message to our life.

[Prattush Sethi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Be your own pilot is a book for those who have unlimited power in them but don't know how to channelise that power. As you keep going through the chapters you feel like climbing up a building from the ground level to the top and finally spreading your wings to enter life which will always be the biggest challenge. It doesn't disappoints you and keeps you hooked.

[POONAM Bhatnagar · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a wonderful piece of work. Worth reading.

[poornima malagimani · Rating 5 out of 5]

You have the control

A book that inspired me with interesting and simple analogies between pilot training and life. Amazing book, a must read.

[Sabarinath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life explained using flying as a metaphor. Great book

[amit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

Nice work by manish. It's a very nice book, some time you feel that you are learning flying a plane.

[Curious cat · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good message is conveyed in the books.