Sarah had dreamt of starting her own organic skincare line for years. Every night, after her 9-to-5, she’d mix, test, and perfect her formulas. She believed in her products and loved the process. Yet, every time she thought of launching her business, her heart raced. The dreadful questions began:
“What if no one likes my products?”
“What if I invest all this money and it fails?”
“What if I become a laughingstock?”
This paralyzing fear of potential failure made her postpone her dream time and time again.
But here’s the twist: This very fear, lurking behind her passion, was obstructing the path of her genuine self-discipline. It’s like having all the ingredients to bake but fearing the cake won’t rise.
However, before you or Sarah throw in the towel and succumb to such fears, let’s hear what the ancient Hindu Scripture “Bhagvad Gita” talks about conquering fear of failure…
1. Detachment from the Outcome…
“You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”*
Sounds profound, right? This Gita teaching encourages action without attachment to results. When you focus on the process (self-discipline) and not just the outcome (success or failure), the fear diminishes.
2. Embrace Your Duty…
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to fulfill his duty as a warrior. In our context, this means recognizing our responsibilities and committing to them with sincerity. This commitment, when practiced daily, is self-discipline.
3. Selflessness Over Selfishness…
The Gita teaches the importance of selfless action. When we shift our focus from ‘me’ and ‘my success’ to the greater good and the bigger picture, the pressure lessens. The fear of personal failure becomes secondary, and we are driven by purpose.
4. The Eternal Self…
According to the Gita, our true self is eternal, and it isn’t defined by successes or failures. Recognizing and connecting with this inner self can help in detaching from external validations, thereby strengthening our self-discipline.
5. Knowledge as Power…
One of the significant teachings of the Gita is the importance of knowledge. The more informed and prepared we are, the lesser the fear. Equip yourself, educate yourself, and the path to self-discipline becomes clearer.
6. Acceptance of Life’s Dualities…
Life is full of ups and downs, successes, and failures. Accepting this duality and understanding that failures are just stepping stones to success can change our perspective. This acceptance can be the foundation of unwavering discipline.
If these lessons resonate, it’s time for some introspection.
Because, if you delve deep into the essence of the Bhagavad Gita, it’s not just about war, duty, or religion. It’s about life, choices, and finding one’s path. It’s about recognizing that discipline isn’t just about stringent routines but about understanding oneself and one’s purpose.
In the grand scheme of things, failures are mere blips. They don’t define you. What truly matters is the journey, the commitment, the discipline, and the heart you put into what you do.
So, next time fear knocks on your door, let discipline answer it.
At AuthenticDiscipline.com, we blend ancient wisdom with contemporary insights to support you on this enriching journey. Dive in, embrace the teachings, and craft a disciplined life that’s not just authentic but also fearless.