Only Entitled To Action
"You are only entitled to the action, never to its fruits." - Bhagavad Gita
Context
This quotes comes to us from the Bhagavad Gita. A 700 verse Hindu scripture that follows a dialog format and is considered one of the most influential Hindu scriptures. The writing dates back to the second century BCE.
I can't give this scripture enough justice in these short paragraphs. So, if you have not explored the Bhagavad Gita, please do so. The book is filled with wisdom and guidance for our lives.
Consideration
This quote should be taught to every student at the end of their education. The lesson needs to be internalized.
At this age, you are leaving education and entering a new phase in your life. You are figuring out what you want to do with the rest of your life (no big deal). What career do you want to have, what work do you want to do with the rest of your life?
We can debate if this is pressure is good. And yes, you can always change your mind. However, put yourself back at this age in your mind. It felt like your entire life was being decided.
The focus of these discussion is often what kind of work are you good at? What gives you the most money? The most chance for success? What offers the most reward?
Building a life based on what you think the rewards are is a recipe for disaster. Yet that is what we are often taught. The rewards are not guaranteed. Only the work is.
If you are only guaranteed the work, do work you find meaningful. The reward needs to be in the work. Are you happy if you just did the work? Is it challenging? Do you enjoy it? Do you feel like you're making a difference in the world or just your life?
Let the reward be just that.
Quotes are such a short statement that can mean so many different things to different people. Every week or so, I’ll be sharing a new quote with the community. If you’d like to follow along, please subscribe using the button below.