Walls of Dreams, Pathways to Ambitions | The Transformational Vision of the Vice Chancellor of St. Aloysius University | Global TV
By NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Imagine walking into a space where every wall, every corner, and every surface speaks to you in words and visuals. Think about a wall of Nobel Laureates in every department in the campus. It will definitely turn to be the collective dream of a larger society. Dreams and ambitions are not personal aspirations any more. These are collective inspirations of the society. This is the remarkable philosophy shared by Fr. Praveen Martis SJ, the visionary Vice Chancellor of St. Aloysius University.
“Keep your walls and surroundings filled with your dreams and ambitions,” he said. “Your mind will eventually pick them and make them their own dreams. Every person working and visiting in the environment will also gain the same gifts as you.” This profound insight is gaining momentum.
It has to become a movement in the society. Practical and replicable models for transforming individuals and communities has to emerge from visionary minds like Fr. Martis’s. His idea is grounded in the belief that our surroundings profoundly influence our mental states. It has the power to shaping our aspirations and actions. By consciously filling these spaces with dreams and ambitions, we set the stage for growth, positivity, and transformation.
The Power of Environmental Influence
Fr. Praveen Martis draws attention to a simple but overlooked truth: we are shaped by what we see, hear, and experience every day. Whether its motivational quotes, vision boards, or artworks depicting our goals, these visual cues will act as triggers and subconscious reminders to push us toward our ambitions.
“Imagine a workplace where every wall reflects a shared mission, where the corridors echo collective aspirations. It’s not about decoration for events wasting resources and throwing them to the dumb yards. Create permanent decorations where you create movements towards a clear direction,” he explains.
At St. Aloysius University, this philosophy has been implemented with stunning success. Classrooms, staffrooms, and common areas are adorned with pictures, quotes, and visuals that reflect the institution’s mission of excellence. Students and faculty are encouraged to contribute their personal dreams to these walls, creating a shared vision that fosters unity and purpose.
The Ripple Effect: Shared Dreams, Shared Growth
What makes this approach revolutionary is its ripple effect. As Fr. Martis points out, the dreams displayed on the walls are not just for the individual who placed them there. They become part of the environment, influencing everyone who encounters them. “When you surround yourself with positive imagery and ambitious ideas, you are not inspiring everyone who steps into that space,” he says. Faculty members have reported heightened motivation, while students find themselves thinking bigger and aiming higher.
Visitors to the campus leave inspired, often carrying the spark of these dreams back to their own lives and workplaces. Fr. Praveen Martis believes that this concept is not limited to academic settings. Any space; be it a home, office, or public area can be transformed into a hub of inspiration. The key is intentionality: choosing images, words, and symbols that talks about your deepest aspirations.
“We often underestimate the power of our surroundings. But when you consciously design your environment to reflect your goals, you align your external world with your internal aspirations. This alignment creates a powerful momentum that propels you forward,” he explains.
A Replicable Model for Society
Beauty of his idea lies in its simplicity and scalability. It requires no significant financial investment, only creativity and a commitment to growth. Fr. Martis envisions a society where schools, workplaces, and even public spaces adopt this model, turning ordinary walls into extraordinary tools for transformation.
“This is not about personal success,” he emphasizes again. “It’s about creating an ecosystem of growth where everyone thrives. When we inspire others, we uplift ourselves. That’s the true power of shared dreams.”
The Science Behind the Vision
Fr. Praveen Martis’s philosophy is supported by psychological research. Studies show that visual stimuli significantly impact our subconscious mind, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. By surrounding ourselves with positive imagery, we create a mental environment conducive to success.
This approach also aligns with the principles of neuroplasticity; the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. When we repeatedly encounter visuals of our goals, we reinforce neural pathways associated with those goals, making them more achievable. “This is just the beginning,” he says with a smile. “When you empower people to dream, you empower them to act. And when you empower them to act, you change the world.”
