Friends, enthusiasm is not merely an academic concept; it is a term deeply intertwined with the heart, mind, soul, and daily life. Such a topic should not be understood or taught solely in an academic manner. It must be integrated into practical life to grasp its essence fully. In today’s world, topics like these are often approached from an educational perspective, which is why, despite significant emphasis, people fail to comprehend or apply them in their personal lives.
Friends, we feel cold in winter and warmth in summer, but without external aid, we cannot feel warm in winter or cool in summer. Similarly, our nature, thoughts, and ways of working remain nearly constant, with minor variations. Office workers spend one-third of their day, about eight hours, at work, and the remaining two-thirds, sixteen hours, outside the office, with family or society. Businesspeople divide their time almost equally between work and personal life. Lack of enthusiasm troubles both, as each faces unique challenges. If you spend time in an uplifting environment, your time at work will automatically become more joyful, and similarly, enthusiasm at work will bring happiness to your home and social life.
Science tells us that the entire universe, including our bodies, is composed of matter (what we can touch) and energy, along with other elements yet to be discovered or named. According to science, the atom is the smallest unit of matter. Atoms and energy existed before us, exist now, and will continue to exist when we are gone. They cannot be destroyed or created, only transformed.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna declares, “I existed before this world, I exist now, and I will exist even after the world ceases to be.” The soul, being a fragment of the Supreme, is considered eternal and infinite. It neither dies nor can be killed; it simply changes forms.
Science reveals that 99.009% of our body comprises atoms, with the remaining 0.991% still a mystery. Atoms are in constant motion, perhaps inspiring the spiritual belief that action is inevitable.
Every small deed we perform—thinking, understanding, seeing, hearing, smelling, and even loving—is an act of karma. The body performs some actions automatically, like breathing and the heartbeat, just as the universe operates autonomously.
This connection signifies that we are integral to the universe and are destined to act from birth until death. Since action is inevitable, why not act with enthusiasm and strive for excellence in every field?
Most people today are troubled, working without genuine interest. Why? Problems arise when enthusiasm diminishes or halts.
What obstructs enthusiasm, and why? Let’s explore.
Like a vehicle runs on fuel, our body operates on energy derived from food, oxygen, and water. Enthusiasm or joy fuels our actions. Everything is interconnected.
Our mind impedes enthusiasm. Relying on thoughts and the mind, which tends to wander, leads to distraction. Excessive distraction depletes enthusiasm, steering us toward depression. Let us delve into what the mind is.
The mind is a collection of thoughts. Repeatedly performing similar actions or hearing the same things shapes our thoughts, which eventually form the mind. Our body craves constancy, while our mind desires novelty. For instance, sometimes we crave bread, other times paratha or dosa. Just as varied food can upset the stomach, our mind’s wandering disrupts harmony, leading to discomfort or illness.
When we fail to use the mind properly, fear, negative thoughts, unrest, doubt, and uncertainty arise. Psychology teaches that appearances can be deceptive, and what exists may not be visible. When our thoughts dominate us, we see only what we wish to see. Phenomena like the moon illusion and Ponzo illusion illustrate this. Therefore, do not heed the mind blindly.
Our mind cannot persist in monotony because it thrives on mystery. When a mystery is solved, it seeks new avenues. This love for the unknown makes the universe and God infinite. If we found the universe’s edge or had a tangible vision of God, we might lose interest. As Buddha said, “I have seen God, yet I have not, because I see a new form every day.”
You might have heard of controlling or stopping the mind, but it cannot be subdued; it can only be directed. The dissatisfaction in relationships stems from the mind’s desire for novelty. Living through the mind demands vigilance and deep understanding, or one must transcend the mind—a challenge, especially amidst societal and familial responsibilities.
Psychologically, the neurotransmitter dopamine plays a role in making us feel good. It is essential for motivation and enthusiasm. Healthy habits like consuming protein-rich foods (e.g., almonds, bananas, chicken, eggs), exercising, meditating, and reflecting on life’s blessings can naturally boost dopamine levels.
Throughout life, we often make two mistakes: believing someone can make us understand and expecting happiness or love from others. No one can make you understand unless you are willing, and joy and love must arise from within. Dopamine secretion, already embedded in us, needs activation. Let’s integrate these insights into daily life.
- Practice Yoga: Especially pranayama. Yoga nurtures internal health, unlike gym exercises that enhance external appearance.
- Meditate: Avoid regularity to keep it engaging and heartfelt.
- Healthy Diet: Include nutrient-rich foods as discussed.
- Cherish Friendships: True friends bring peace and joy. Choose quality over quantity.
- Pursue Hobbies: Identify and cultivate activities that bring joy, ensuring resilience during tough times.
- Perform Kind Acts: Feed the hungry, plant trees, drive responsibly, and avoid littering. These small gestures bring immense satisfaction.
- Adopt a Childlike Spirit: Embrace simplicity, joy, and forgiveness.
- Capture Memories: Record joyful moments for rejuvenation during tough times.
Finally, while consistency is vital, avoid making practices mechanical. Let enthusiasm and authenticity drive your actions. Remember, life is a blend of discipline, spontaneity, and love for all beings. Embrace it with enthusiasm and grace.
