Why Am I Not Successful in my Career ?

The Power of Self-Discipline

The Nature of Good Things

It's a curious aspect of life that the most beneficial things often seem unappealing or difficult at the start. This phenomenon can be observed in many areas:

1. Hard Work: It often feels exhausting and challenging, but it is essential for achieving success and personal growth.

2. Exercise: It can be tough and physically demanding, yet it strengthens the body and mind, improving overall health.

3. Lemons: They are sour to taste, but they are rich in Vitamin C and other nutrients, boosting immunity and promoting good health.

The Nature of Bad Things

Conversely, things that seem pleasant or easy often carry hidden dangers:

1. Sweets: They are delightful to eat but can lead to serious health issues like obesity and diabetes when consumed in excess.

2. Procrastination: It feels relaxing in the moment, but it can lead to missed opportunities and increased stress later.

3. Excessive Screen Time: It's entertaining but can cause eye strain, sleep issues, and decreased physical activity.

These experiences reflect a deeper truth about life: God has designed the world in a way that challenges us to exert ourselves toward the good. This struggle helps us grow, develop resilience, and ultimately become better versions of ourselves. This process of pushing through discomfort to reach a beneficial outcome is known as Self-Discipline.

The Wisdom of Edward Moses

Edward Moses, the legendary hurdler, once said, "There is nothing extraordinary in me apart from the fact that I can tolerate pain more than others." His achievements in athletics, marked by unparalleled discipline and perseverance, are a testament to the power of enduring discomfort for the sake of greatness.

The Marshmallow Test

The famous marshmallow test conducted on children showed the importance of self-discipline. In the experiment, children were offered a choice: one marshmallow immediately or two if they waited for a period. The children who exercised self-control and waited tended to achieve greater success in various aspects of life later on. This study highlights how the ability to delay gratification is a crucial aspect of self-discipline and a predictor of future success.

The Lesson from the Mother Giraffe

In nature, the mother giraffe gives her newborn a tough lesson right at birth. She nudges her calf, causing it to fall repeatedly, and even kicks it. This may seem harsh, but it is a necessary practice. The young giraffe learns to stand quickly, an essential skill for escaping predators like lions. This early, rigorous training is a form of discipline that can save the calf's life.

Conclusion

Self-discipline is an inherent gift bestowed upon us by God. It may be uncomfortable and challenging, but nurturing this gift leads to profound growth and success. Embracing self-discipline allows us to navigate life's trials, resist temptations, and achieve our fullest potential. Let us cultivate this divine attribute, for it is the key to a fulfilling and victorious life.

Have a look at tthis interesting video from Swami Mukundananda to learn in detail :