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Goals call for right effort
“With effort anything can be accomplished, even things that previously seemed beyond our imagination.” Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
We all have big dreams, we all strive to bring our vision to fruition, and this takes right effort.
That is, the determination that drives us to keep on trying and the energy we willingfully put into it.
Some of our long-term goals take time to come about, we’re not magicians things don’t just happen.
If we want to enjoy the fruit of our labor, we have to keep at it even when the end seems far ahead.
Right and wrong effort
But before we exhaust ourselves in the service of future plans, we should ask ourselves if it’s smart.
We must distinguish between effort that serves our interests and needless attempts to push forward.
It wouldn’t be wise to drain ourselves in the name of fast results, who knows how these will turn out.
Keep in mind, not everything we do is sure to bring us closer to our goals, some might delay our plans.
Think long term
“Nothing is guaranteed, but you can improve your odds at getting something you want by making every effort possible.” David A. Carbonell, Sally M. Winston
Since big designs are not born out of the blue, if we aspire to reach our goals, we should be clear.
We cannot expect our plans to work out by themselves nor can we predict how long they will take.
So, we must set our mind first, for one we should generate a strong motivation to go the distance.
But that’s not enough, if we’re not mindful of the steps we take, it won’t be long before we’re lost.
Give it your best
Mapping the future can lead to mistakes, it is more wishful thinking and fantasy than the real thing.
In the end, to get there we should keep our eyes on the process instead of betting on the results.
Likewise, we should invest in the quality of our efforts, being sloppy is not an option if it’s important.
Taking the time to reflect on the steps should be our prime concern, only then can we adjust course.
Know when to rest
“The cultivation of shamatha involves balancing the mind, and that includes balancing the effort exerted in the practice with relaxation.” B. Alan Wallace Ph.D., Daniel Goleman
Our ability to stay the course, involves our understanding of the intricate play of elements involved.
Some might take a while to manifest and others might need our help to become, so we have to relax.
We should see ourselves in a dance with the terms and conditions, there is no point in pushing hard.
Battling our way to the finish line and consuming our energy in the process, won’t have us get there.
No more struggle
Leaning on the practice of shamatha, tranquility meditation, we learn to observe rather than react.
Taking the breath for guide, we come to grasp the subtle, fluid, changing, coming and going of all things.
We come to appreciate the value of yielding, letting-go, going with the flow, we learn to slow down.
Knowing when to press on and when to give way, staying calm in the midst of it takes practice. ?
Always vigilant
“Many factors can influence the quality and subtle balance of our effort in any moment.” Rob Burbea
Allowing ourselves to relax in between the steps we take does not mean losing sight of the present.
Since everything around us is in constant flux, we have to stay watchful of the changes taking place.
Being mindful of the impermanent nature the situations in which we find ourselves, helps keep sharp.
Our awareness moment after moment does not only extend to the outside world, but inside as well.
Deeply connected
Our mindsets are everchanging and greatly dependent on external situations, so we ought to be attentive.
It is in our best interest to be as much in tune with whatever is happening and the effects it has on us.
When things seem to go our way, all is well but when they don’t our confidence goes out the window.
Events influence our outlook as well as our motivation, it goes both ways, so we should not be rash.
Do not forfeit
“How you feel and what you do will depend on how the other person responds to your efforts.” Paul Gilbert
No matter the scope of your undertaking and how convinced you are of its value, not everybody will agree.
You can be sure some people will approve and try their best to help while others won’t, it doesn’t matter.
The efforts you put into realizing your goals should not be swayed by outside approval or disapproval.
Be open to listen, if you have faith in your vision and your abilities, it won’t deter you from your plans.
Watch your mood
Our mind is as much able to affect our level of commitment, so we should keep guard of its positions.
Moments of ambivalence and self-doubt are expected but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored.
Any lack of confidence should be addressed, simply take a minute to ask yourself whether or not it is valid.
Abandon the mindsets that put you down, rely on the mental habits that strengthen your confidence.
Do what you do with a smile
“True enthusiastic effort is continuous, energetic and joyful because we recognize the benefits of what we’re doing.” Geshe Sonam Rinchen, Ruth Sonam
Desires are strong motivators, the more passionate we are about something the harder we’ll work at it.
But that doesn’t mean we’ll get it straightaway, long-term projects can stall sometimes, don’t let frustration set in.
Try to maintain a joyful attitude, remind yourself that every step counts no matter how small it is.
Use the “down time” to perfect your skills, pick up more tools, and broaden your knowledge base.
Accomplish more do less
Some of us are in such a panic to get things done; we’ll rush into action without giving it a thought.
When our attempts are not successful, we often feel depleted and discouraged, that’s not right effort.
Our aim should be to make the best of every situation, to somehow find ways to serve our purpose.
At least we ought to make sure our actions are aligned with our intention, so we don’t go off course.
Right effort is selfcare
“You put your own energy and effort into caring for your world.” Chogyam Trungpa, Carolyn Rose Gimian
Only in fiction do we see our wishes come true right of the bat, but in life dreaming about it won’t do.
Nothing can propel us to our journey’s end, we have to be involved and disciplined or else we will fail.
Yet we come up with a million reasons to convince ourselves this or that can be delayed another day.
To curb our lazy side, we should recall that we are really serving our own welfare, that this is for you.
Don’t give in to laziness
If you were to choose between the long way or the short path to happiness, what would you pick?
Most of us would take a shortcut and hop on the express train so long we get there sooner than later.
We would gladly spare ourselves the sweat and tears, have others do our bidding and take the win.
Fast-tracking is alluring but it’s to our disadvantage, for what we pass on hides a well of knowledge.
Right effort tips the balance
The first message is that, however immense the goal may seem, it is possible—provided that we want it and make the necessary effort. Shantideva
Seeking development in the home front, our professional or spiritual life takes commitment.
For us to progress we have to bring together skills and understanding, apply them with diligence and confidence.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t regard trial and error as a waste of time, these are meant to better.
Experiences are our best resource, that’s where newbies are made pros, so embrace the difficulties.
Everyday give a little more
Don’t put limits on what you can or cannot do, day by day try to get something done, you can do it.
The fear of the unknown, the anxiety that comes with the idea of failing are to be dealt with head on.
Welcome every step with a joyful heart even when it is hard, don’t forget what you put in you get out.
Be ready, stay mindful of your goals but keep your eyes on the ball, it won’t be long before you arrive.
Pace yourself, right effort is a balancing act, between showing-up, doing and letting grow, trust the process.
Nathalie Bizawi, founder of Wisdom & Mindfulness meditation center. Senior Meditation, Mindfulness and philosophy instructor, From Wingate Academic College. M.A in Education from TAU University, Tel Aviv.
Wisdom & Mindfulness your meditation center in Tel Aviv