Five Essential Teachings from the Bhagavad Gita
Timeless Wisdom - Issue #163
December 11, 2024 is marked as Gita Jayanti. The Gita or Bhagavad Gita is a timeless scripture that forms part of the Mahabharata, capturing a profound dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It offers guidance on leading a purposeful and virtuous life through the paths of duty (Dharma), selfless action (Karma Yoga), devotion (Bhakti Yoga), and knowledge (Jnana Yoga). Celebrated as Gita Jayanti, this day marks the revelation of its teachings, inspiring people to reflect on its universal wisdom and apply it to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and balance.
The Bhagavad Gita, known as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture within the epic Mahabharata. Set on a battlefield before war, it presents a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and his Lord Krishna. The Gita stands as timeless wisdom in the ocean of world literature.
This Sanskrit text, with 700 verses, is not a religious scripture but a philosophical treatise that captures the essence of life's teachings. Set against an impending war, the Gita's dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna serves as a metaphor for internal conflicts and moral dilemmas in our lives. The Gita's distinction as the epitome of life's learnings stems from its ability to address universal human concerns with depth and accessibility. It weaves philosophical concepts - from the nature of self and universe to principles of righteous action and inner peace.
Unlike abstract philosophical texts, the Gita provides practical guidance for life's complexities. It addresses core issues of human existence - duty, morality, fear, desire, and the search for meaning - with profound and applicable clarity.
This issue of Good Vibes will explore five key slokas (verses) from Gita and their practical lessons for daily life.
Give Your Best - Chapter 2, Verse 47
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि॥
This is one of the most used and famous slokas from Gita. This verse teaches us to focus on our efforts rather than the outcomes. In life, we often become anxious about results, leading to stress and disappointment. By shifting our focus to giving our best in every situation, we can find peace and satisfaction in the process itself. This approach helps us maintain motivation and resilience, even when faced with challenges or setbacks.
Benefits of Focusing on Effort
Reduced Stress: When we focus on giving our best rather than achieving specific outcomes, we reduce anxiety and stress associated with results.
Increased Resilience: By valuing effort, we're more likely to persist in the face of challenges and setbacks.
Continuous Improvement: A focus on effort encourages a mindset of continuous learning and growth.
Enhanced Performance: Paradoxically, by focusing less on results and more on effort, we often improve our performance.
Greater Satisfaction: Deriving satisfaction from the process rather than just the outcome leads to a more fulfilling life.
To embrace this philosophy:
Set process-oriented goals alongside outcome-oriented goals.
Celebrate effort and progress, not just achievements.
Reframe failures as learning opportunities.
Practice self-talk that reinforces the value of effort.
Seek out challenges that push you to grow.
Accept the change - Chapter 2, Verse 14
मात्रास्पर्शास्तु कौन्तेय शीतोष्णसुखदुःखदाः।
आगमापायिनोऽनित्यास्तांस्तितिक्षस्व भारत॥
This sloka teaches us about the transient nature of life's experiences and the importance of maintaining equanimity in the face of both joy and sorrow. Life will have ups and downs like seasons change. Accepting it and acting proactively can make life situations better.
Change provides opportunities to learn new things, develop new skills, and gain insights about ourselves and our capabilities. By embracing change rather than resisting it, we can lower our stress levels and manage uncertainty better. Change often brings new choices for happiness, fulfilment, and professional advancement
Dealing with Life's Ups and Downs:
Maintain Perspective: Remember that both positive and negative experiences are temporary. This can help you stay grounded during highs and lows.
Practice Gratitude: Focus on the things you're thankful for, even during challenging times, to maintain a positive outlook.
Learn from Setbacks: Use difficult experiences as opportunities for learning and personal development.
Stay Connected: Maintain strong relationships with friends and family who can provide support during tough times and share in your successes.
Develop Coping Strategies: Identify healthy ways to manage stress and emotions, such as exercise, hobbies, or talking to a therapist.
Focus on What You Can Control: Direct your energy towards aspects of your life you can influence, rather than worrying about things beyond your control.
Manage Anger - Chapter 2, Verse 63:
क्रोधाद्भवति सम्मोहः सम्मोहात्स्मृतिविभ्रमः।
स्मृतिभ्रंशाद् बुद्धिनाशो बुद्धिनाशात्प्रणश्यति॥
This verse highlights the destructive nature of anger. By recognising anger's negative impact on our judgment and actions, we can develop strategies to manage it effectively. Cultivating emotional intelligence and practicing mindfulness can help us respond to challenging situations with clarity and composure.
I have had huge anger issues and many of those incidences are mentioned in my book Finding the Oasis. It was a tumultuous existence where negative emotions reigned supreme, wreaking havoc on my relationships, my well-being and my sense of self. The stress and pressures of my professional life served as fertile ground for the proliferation of my anger, causing it to seep into every aspect of my being. My wife suggested I should visit a therapist. Through the unwavering support and expertise of the counsellor, I gradually gained a better understanding of my emotional landscape.
Here are five things that you can do to reduce your anger:
Write a journal or log whenever you get angry. You will be surprised by what it reveals. Monitor every episode of anger, from fleeting moments of frustration or impatience to extreme rage.
Watch yourself being angry. Roger Federer used to throw his racquet in anger during his earlier days and says watching himself throw tantrums put him off them for life. The angry are often proud of their anger. Even if they leave a scene having achieved nothing like shouting at another driver through the closed windows of their car. Re-imagine the scene again. You will feel embarrassed.
Take care of yourself. Most of the time you will find you are angry because of alcohol, hunger, stress, fatigue, unmet needs, PMS. Get some sleep; take some time off; streamline your week; delegate; relax; improve your diet. If you feel yourself becoming angry, take a break from the situation and give yourself some time to cool down. Take some deep breaths, go for a walk, or take up a relaxing activity like meditation or yoga. In short, look after yourself.
Be less judgmental. In life, most factors are subjective rather than objective. Your personal views may not be shared by everyone, as there are always people who will agree or disagree with your opinion.
Understand that anger is a problem. Anger is an ineffective way of working in this world. It will mostly backfire and ruin relationships. Studies say that 80 per cent of the time people direct their anger against their family and friends. These are not the people you wish to antagonise. Understand that having a warm relationship is the key to emotional health and well-being. And if you can’t sort it out yourself, seek professional help like I did. There is no shame in going to a doctor to sort it out. Treat anger like any other disease.
Self Doubt – Chapter 4, verse 40
अज्ञश्चाश्रद्दधानश्च संशयात्मा विनश्यति।
नायं लोकोऽस्ति न परो न सुखं संशयात्मनः।।
Self-doubt can be paralysing, hindering our growth and happiness. This verse emphasises the importance of cultivating self-confidence and faith in our abilities.
By overcoming self-doubt, we open ourselves to new opportunities and experiences, leading to personal and professional growth. Arjuna had defeated the mighty Kaurav army earlier during the Virata war in the 13th year of Pandavs exile but at Kurushetra he suffered from Self-doubt.
Imposter syndrome is a psychological experience where individuals doubt their skills, talents, or accomplishments and fear being exposed as frauds, despite evidence of their competence.
Strategies to overcome Imposter syndrome:
Recognise and Acknowledge: Learn to recognise when you're experiencing imposter syndrome. Acknowledge these feelings when they arise and understand that they are common experiences, not reflections of your true abilities.
Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Actively work to reframe negative thoughts into more positive and realistic ones. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
Celebrate Achievements: Keep a record of your accomplishments, praise, and positive feedback. Regularly review this to remind yourself of your capabilities and successes.
Seek Support: Share your feelings with trusted colleagues, mentors, or a therapist. Opening up can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide new perspectives on your abilities.
Embrace Continuous Learning: Adopt a growth mindset. Focus on learning and improving rather than trying to prove your worth. Remember that it's okay not to know everything.
Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger objectives into manageable tasks. Celebrate small wins along the way, and use these successes to build confidence and combat self-doubt.
Manage Stress – Chapter 11, verse 33
तस्मात्त्वमुत्तिष्ठ यशो लभस्व जित्वा शत्रून्भुङ् क्ष्व राज्यं समृद्धम् |
मयैवैते निहता: पूर्वमेव निमित्तमात्रं भव सव्यसाचिन् ||
Whatever happens, happens for good. Accept this. This verse teaches us to view ourselves as instruments in a larger plan, reducing the burden of personal responsibility for outcomes. By understanding that we don't control everything, we can focus on our actions and let go of excessive worry about results. This perspective can significantly reduce stress and anxiety in our daily lives.
In June 2001, we signed an agreement for a promising partnership with an American company. Fate intervened when I had to return to India due to my mother's advanced cancer diagnosis. Weeks of medical consultations and emotional decisions followed.
Prioritising family, I contacted Mark, our partner company's director, explaining the changed circumstances. Mark agreed to postpone the venture, showing understanding and compassion.
As I dealt with my mother's illness, global events complicated matters. The September 11 attacks caused a downturn in the US automobile market, affecting our American partner. The company faced setbacks and declared bankruptcy.
Initially questioning God why our family faced this challenge, I later realised my mother's diagnosis spared me from potential bankruptcy and legal issues. Had I proceeded with the venture, I would have incurred significant debt and faced export obligation challenges.
My mother's illness altered events, shielding me from financial risks.
Today, as I see my mother’s health restored and witness the positive outcomes that emerged from this tumultuous period, I am filled with gratitude. It is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there may be hidden blessings and unforeseen paths that lead us away from the precipice of despair.
From managing our emotions and actions to cultivating a broader perspective on existence, these teachings provide a framework for personal growth and spiritual development. By reflecting on these verses and applying their lessons in our daily lives, we can navigate challenges with greater wisdom, find peace in turbulent times, and work towards our highest potential.
⭐ Announcement⭐
We have successfully wrapped the third edition of Communion at the Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh. COMMUNION is born with the vision to create a platform where likeminded people come together to share & seek, ideate & brainstorm, inspire & guide one another and those striving for personal growth. Check out the event details here.
Its that time of the year from where we move from 1:1 sessions with my mentees to everyone coming together under one roof deliver even more impactful sessions, actionable insights, and enriching opportunities for like-minded leaders to connect and grow.
If you are interested to be a part of my 1:1 Mentorship program, you can write to me at me@sandeepmall.com
In case you missed previous issue on The Facets of Nutrition , here are the highlights:
Nutrition is Complex and Multifaceted
Like the parable of the blind men and the elephant, nutrition cannot be reduced to a single perspective or universal truth. It involves various interconnected factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and health history.No One-Size-Fits-All Diet
Each individual has unique nutritional needs. What works for one person may not work for another, emphasizing the importance of personalisation and flexibility in dietary choices.Fundamental Nutrition Principles Remain Timeless
Simple guidelines like eating whole foods, prioritising variety, practicing moderation, and staying hydrated are universally beneficial and withstand evolving dietary trends.Nutrition Extends Beyond Food
Factors like sleep, stress management, physical activity, and social connections significantly influence overall health, showing that a holistic approach is necessary for well-being.Stay Open to Learning and Progress
Nutrition science is continually evolving, challenging old beliefs and introducing new insights. Staying informed, questioning extreme claims, and being adaptable are key to making sustainable, health-supporting choices.
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See you on the fifty first Sunday of 2024. Take care!