LEARN TO LET GO OF NEGATIVITY AND STAY FOCUSED ON YOUR GOAL

It is pebbles or grains of wheat, not pearls or gems that are found in packaged sacks, proclaimed the Sufi poet Kabir.

Things or persons of value, relevant to your resolutions and pursuits are not too many. Much in the world that is negative and worthless needs to be discarded because of their impeding impact on one’s personal growth.

This selective approach involves letting go of malice vented by others, unwarranted reprimands by the elderly at home or the boss at the workplace, rash left side overtaking by a speeding vehicle, humiliating utterances by friends and colleagues, the spouse giving a deaf ear to your sane advice, flaring up at a little extra sugar in your cup of tea, or low grades in your child’s examinations, etc. “How people treat you is their karma, how you react is yours,” or so said American philosopher Wayne Dyer.

People act according to their wishes, whims or discretion.

The opinion of others, who hardly have stakes in your ulterior well-being, can jeopardise your resolution. What consumes our mind ultimately controls our mind.

Don’t let small things such as a grudge occupy the maximum room in your heart. Don’t respond to negative persons and circumstances; this habit shall not only strengthen your resolutions but also helps maintain your inner peace. (Inner Voice comprises contributions from our readers.) The views expressed are personal