Success is defined differently for each of us – for me, it has to do with harnessing my sometimes-dictatorial mind enough that I don’t get in my own way. When I am successful, I manage to trick my mind, to stay productive and on the ball.
I transcend my comfort zone daily, realizing my ideas, my passions and getting ahead. This doesn’t mean that I take giant leaps every day – not at all. But if I manage to be just a little proud of myself for not letting my sloth get the better of me at the end of the day, then I am seriously impressed by my own power and perseverance.
The past three months were defined by self-discipline and intense concentration. I was managing two big projects simultaneously and if I had strayed from my schedule for even a minute, I would have created disaster. I had to harness my mind. Truth is, I can be extremely lazy – I just choose not to be because it doesn’t suit me. This doesn’t mean that I don’t know how to relax. Laziness and relaxation are two completely different things.
People often ask me how I do it. My answer: I simply do. I try not to get too caught up in the thinking and analyzing. Of course, that’s not quite all.
In order to achieve long-term success in life, we’ve got to get things done. Consistently. Sure, there are those who simply get lucky, but I’m not one of them. I’ve always had to work hard, which in turn has made me stronger. Honestly, it’s always been worth the effort.
Three secrets for greater success
Be patient
Endurance is key. I often encounter people who would love to live their dream, but are winded after three breaths and refuse to take action in order to move those dreams ahead.
This lethargy can be triggered through a discouraging environment or comments from others, or simply through impatience. If you want to achieve something, you’ve got to stick to it – that’s important.
Every day is an opportunity to move a step closer to your dream or goal or whatever you prefer to call it. Keep steady and keep at it. Take care of your finances and clean out your closets, make sure to keep those things organized that might be causes for stress. Those are the things that likely to become roadblocks. They’re there, in the back of your mind, draining your vital energy.
Don’t be afraid that you’re missing out
The real work is often in the background –where no one is celebrating your accomplishments or congratulating you. If you knew how much I work in the background and how invisible much of this work is…countless hours. This is essential for what I do, especially when I am writing a book. I have to discipline myself to lean back a bit, stop worrying that I am missing out on something, and simply get to work.
In the era of social media, where everyone’s out for a kick – or click – to elevate out adrenaline levels, to feel alive and validated, very few take the time to create something substantive. Allow for breathing room and stillness in your life, don’t become dependent on validation from the outside – focus more on YOU. What’s that saying? “Still waters run deep.”
Don’t become dependent on others
The spiritual teacher Mooji said something once that stuck with me – I can’t remember the exact words, but I remember the gist well. It had to do with avoiding overly close friendships, as these might prevent one from taking autonomous steps ahead in life.
I have nothing against deep and meaningful friendships, important is that you don’t let yourself be held back from your callings. I have dear friends, and still I am entirely independent.
I make my own decisions, and rarely consult others in the process – only occasionally my husband if it’s relevant to him. I’ve noticed time again that anything doesn’t work well. I believe that we carry a deep wisdom within and we only need to learn to listen in order to take even bigger steps because we’re not making ourselves small in order to accommodate others.
Do you have a solid Why?
Of course, it’s also essential to know why you are doing something. What is your intention? Is your WHY juicy enough that it gives you goosebumps? Stepping toward success should be what motivates you. If your motivation is not strong enough, you will give up before you reach the finish line.
Ask yourself this question in all of your endeavors – why do you want this? Why Yoga teacher? Why blogger? Why make malas? Whatever you choose to do in life, be clear with yourself. A solid base for creating this clarity is a regular meditation practice. Take some time every day – you won’t regret it! And don’t forget to feel a little proud of your own achievements at the end of the day!
#doyouhaveawhy?
Madhavi
