Mastering Inner Resilience, Steering through Uncertainties
Do not linger on disturbing thoughts and emotions. Release them.
In Part 3, I explored how to build and maintain a stable state of mind using two helpful ideas from Chuang Tzu and the Diamond Sutra. In this article, I investigate the mindset and practical practices that can assist us in overcoming constant worry and restlessness in our pursuit of specific goals in life.
Many of us need specific goals to stay engaged in the present moment and drive us forward on life’s journey. Deprived of meaningful goals, we risk floating and drifting without a clear purpose. Yet, being aware of the impact goals have on us is a critical but often overlooked lesson.
Goals hold particular significance. They push us from what is familiar into the unknown—ushering in new circumstances filled with unpredictability, risks, disappointments, and new hopes.
To a large extent, the transition from our past lives to what lies ahead can be seen as a process of disillusionment with our imaginations and unrealistic expectations.
It is a fruitful journey that awakens us to the reality that we must assume full responsibility for our life paths. With responsibility, we can become sober about our interactions with external circumstances. In this sense, it is inevitable that we will encounter constant worries, anxiety, and pressure in our lives.
Going into uncharted waters
Setting goals is a conscious action in the midst of an often irrational, mysterious, and unpredictable environment. It is an assertion to craft a clear path ahead that makes us less worried and more grounded in reality.
In essence, assuming responsibility with concrete goals encourages us to become the captain of the ship we are steering on the voyage of life.
