The glass ceiling is not outside – it is within
Can you imagine the world without Google? Then how can you live life without a guide? Gita gives the roadmap that takes you from mediocrity to excellence.
A talented sportsperson first visualises his goal – the trophy. Then he pours his time, energy, and effort into achieving it. This means fewer hangouts with friends, staying away from his favourite food, and not lazing on a Sunday morning. Yet, it never feels like sacrifice, because the goal excites him far more than what he must give up.
In the same way, begin life with a clear vision of what you want to achieve. The glass ceiling isn’t outside – it is within you, in your thinking. Visualise excellence in your chosen field, in the field of your passion. Aim to be the best at it. Set smaller milestones along the way. Work dedicatedly, consistently. Love your work. Be devoted to it. And finally, work hard. The sharper your efforts, the quicker you move forward towards your goal. You will, then, not even feel tempted to dissipate your energy in random activities.
Now suppose you achieve your goal – the Olympic gold, business success, fame, and wealth. Are you fulfilled? That strange inner emptiness that drove you forward in the beginning still lingers. You begin asking, what next? Why do I still feel incomplete? Is there a way to reach lasting happiness?
That’s where Gita steps in. It introduces you to yourself. You are born with amazing equipment – a body, a mind, and an intellect. But were you ever given a user manual? It’s like buying the most sophisticated gadget, without knowing how to use it.
Sense contact gives instant happiness. The first mango of the season tastes divine. But overindulgence dulls the joy. The more you consume mindlessly, the less you enjoy. Learn the art of discriminate contact, so the enjoyment lasts a lifetime.
We seek satisfaction through action, but it often ends in pressure, comparison, and burnout. Gita introduces the concept of yajna – action performed in a spirit of service and sacrifice, for a higher purpose. Act with the attitude of giving, not grabbing. Modern research confirms it: givers thrive, excel, and succeed. The law is simple – give and you gain; grab and you lose. All givers are happy. And grow to their potential.
Relationships begin beautifully, but expectations and demands create friction. Romance turns to resentment. The days of wine and roses, become days of whine and neuroses! Learn unconditional love. Love others irrespective of any return, tangible or intangible. And people naturally respond with warmth and loyalty. They go beyond the call of duty to do things for you. True love empowers. Your influence grows. Your happiness multiplies. You emerge as a powerful leader.
The intellect is designed to control the whims and fancies of the mind, as well as the urges of the senses. But a weak intellect falls prey to the mind. A strong intellect helps you master yourself – and the world. Gita helps refine your intellect. You are then able to conceive the subtle thought of Atman, Spirit.
Everything in the world is temporary, passing, ephemeral. But there is something in you that is permanent. That is the Spirit, Atman, your real personality.
Jaya Row conducts Gita webinars every Saturday, 6-7 pm on YouTube. WhatsApp 99200 54000 for details
Disclaimer
Views expressed above are the author’s own.
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