First you must break down.....
A few days ago, a close friend of mine, Ravi (name changed) confessed that he is CONFUSED and unable to make decisions about some important next steps in his life. While we all face these moments, for Ravi this was something very very unusual - he is typically the epitome of confidence.
I have faced this same 'crocodile' in the past (for quite a few years) and the pain associated with this state of mind is fresh. At that point, I found that all the skills that I had developed for the almost 40 years were useless in helping me deal with the despondency that had enveloped me.
I needed new tools. But before that I needed to acknowledge my state of mind. Fortunately, once I did that the path unveiled itself. In my journey, I learnt that many had faced these similar challenges. Even Arjuna, the greatest warrior on the planet according to the epic Mahabharatha, broke down unable to proceed at the start of the biggest battle in his life - a battle he had been preparing himself for years!!!
He was only able to proceed when he was willing to put aside his ego, all his previous learnings and be open to the process of inner transformation.
Indeed, my personal journey towards regeneration began with an acceptance that I was confused and then the search began for a new set of skills. The search concluded in discovering the gold that is integrated yoga and a wonderful group of people to support me on the way. But's that another story.....
For now, as I told Ravi, the first step is acceptance. The second, the search....
maybe its to do with that stage/ age in life when larger questions about the meaning of the life lived so far start to keep coming back, no matter how much you try push them away. I know of many in this situation, me included. But its a huge challenge, to set aside all that I have gained, all that makes me "I", and all that contributes to the life I've made. Takes a lot of courage and resources to do that. And to know you've done it, and found answers is hugely inspiring. _/\_
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