Success vs. Joy

- LXVII -

Do Not Live on Expectations

People aspire to secure their future and those of their family. They try to ensure there is sufficient money in their bank account to enable them to maintain their lifestyle after they have retired. However, in my view, a sure way of becoming anxious, frustrated, and dissatisfied is to have expectations that are related in any way to a long-term future.

To me this is akin to my relationship with a ball on the billiards table. I have to know where exactly to strike the ball right now, and perhaps plan for the next couple of immediate shots. Even as world champion I cannot ‘strategize a match’ in advance. There are too many variables with a constantly moving target.

I don’t blame the ball for letting me down. I’m the one responsible for my actions. I have learnt to own up to my responsibilities and discard any expectations that others may have of me. I have also tried my utmost to remove and eliminate any self-expectations. It is these expectations that show up as insecurities.

Chapter LXVI :: Chapter LXVIII