The world is full of temptations. Whether it is that latest model dress that is on sale, the delicious new food item that is at the food counter, or a new gadget that is out for sale, it takes a lot of will power to say ‘no’.
How many times has the thought of a tea or coffee entered your mind, and you found yourself pursuing the thought to get it?
Remember, it is a thought that leads to a desire and that leads to expectation. You may think, “I work hard, and have the money/resources, so what is wrong in fulfilling my desires?” But please remember that when one desire is met, the next one arises. Your mind works as it is trained to do. If you train it to keep pursuing desires, it will keep generating more. And slowly, you end up acquiring more and more – food, dresses, house, car, bigger house, bigger car, and so on. In this world of consumerism and marketing there is no end to this! And this does not give you peace of mind, because you are in a lifelong race!
So, let us start with small exercises. Next time you see a dress, try telling yourself “No, I do not need this”. Or when the thought of a tea or even a meal enters the head, “No, I am going to let this thought pass”. Eventually, you will be able to say no to bigger things.
In this process, you are being mindful and in control of your thoughts.
Just try it. Makes life easier 😊