Hustle, hustle, hustle, I switched to part time job but I'm still hustling 🏃♀️🤸♀️🏃♀️. This is life in 🇺🇸. They always talk about the importance of work life balance but they do the opposite, demanding more from me 😢. I had to bring work home at least twice a week just to keep afloat. Some weekends I try not to check my work email and focus on myself and things that makes me happy, spend time with my siblings, extended family, and few good friends. All that only to hustle again comes Monday 🤪. Am I happy? Yes, happy especially on my days off. Direction in life? I don't need much material things but my goal is to be useful to society and help other people in many ways whenever I can. Thanks Nick 🤗
@@juliaangelicaa5395 Sadhu sadhu. Yes that is so true with many workplace. The focus is on productivity versus the balanced employee. It's very interesting.
@@nickkeomahavong01 Work stress is aging me double time. I find watching your videos insightful and relaxing. I've began to incorporate meditation into my life, thanks to you 👌🏻
Thank you Nick for the reminder.🙏🌺At my age ,almost 50 yrs ..I am finding that I just want to balance things I have in my life already and not chase things I don't.I remind myself all the time to slow down &breathe ..enjoy this moment more.When I don't slow down then my health esp suffers .My life isn't balanced yet ..mainly because I don't focus enough , get distracted easily and spend time worrying about the unimportant things.
When I was in my twenties I didn't want to do anything. I hate to admit it but I sponged off of people. Then one day I did what I had been told I needed to do. I got a full time job, I went to work every day. Sometimes I worked six and seven days a week ten and twelve hours a day. People in my life said I was doing the right thing. My various bosses gave me good reviews. This went on for years. Then I was told I had cancer. My employer cut ties with me as soon as my FMLA leave was up. I went through chemo, radiation and surgery. Now I once again have no job though this time I get disability so no sponging off of people. At the same time I'm right back where I started twenty years ago. Neither working all the time nor sitting around seem to be in balance. I'm not sure where I'm supposed to go from here.
...So tired of the hustle culture. All I want to do is walk in the woods, take care of my family and garden, and read/write/draw. Then go to sleep, wake up, and do again.
That is truly wonderful! I've been straying further and further from that path but I hope I can get better at it. Really want my goals to succeed though so I'm scared of not working as hard for them
All of my busy-ness has been based on the fear of being a “nobody “ and an effort to justify my existence. Now I have learned to embrace being a “nobody “ and no longer strive to live out the expectations of productivity and worth placed on me by society and peers. This brings a deep peace and centeredness that creates a space where I can truly live from the heart and do the things that really matter.
I agree. This hustle culture makes the vast majority of people unhappy. They feel guilty for not being "productive" so much that they can't enjoy their leisure activities.
Beautifully stated. That craving and longing to be and to have brings so much unnecessary suffering. I'm glad you were able to discover that for yourself. That's wonderful!
Very true Mr. Makarios! I have the same problem in my mind, fear of being "nobody". I am 34 years old, have been unemployed for a longer time, and from the very begining of my period being without job, I feel tremendous pressure and judgment from the society, neighbours and my peers. Its no so comfortable to "swim against the stream" but I do my best to let it go and to live slowed-down lifestyle. Kind regards to dear Nick and to all viewers. May all people watching this channel find peace within and suffer less. 🍀🙏
Nature doesn't hurry huh? Get out with your eyes open. Things are devoured in split seconds! Also try sitting near the rapids or out running a buffalo.
Ha ha ha. I'm with you. I'm waiting for the right time I hope I'm not too late. If I am so be it. I know one thing it has to be perfect and real or nothing.
@Aristides Gonzalez Well by his reply he obviously stated that he didn't want to have anything to do with military life. He's never been in military and doesn't care to.
I say you're right Merlin Man, but I'd like to pick a bone with Snoopy! And bust open the last taboo, and talk a bit about death - I hope this might help in these pandemic days. Snoopy, no we don't only die once, we never die! To die you have to experience death, to experience is to observe and reflect on something. We do experience dying, but not death itself, because we walk out right at the high point of the show. None of us stick around to observe or reflect on how we played our part in the leading role. One's own death then, isn't a real experience. It is empty, and nothingness shouldn't be feared or hoped for. Twice in my life I have had my consciousness extinguished (in circumstances where others have assessed and noted that somebody - me - had died), and twice I have been reanimated from this state, and blessed with some more time on earth. My personal reflection on this now is 1) No, my continued subjectivity attests that I didn't die. 2) I experienced a discontinuity of consciousness and my timeline was broken - I did not float up to the ceiling and watch from afar, no light or tunnel appeared. 3) Time (as in more time) has no real substance in reality, and reality itself is not as we see it, but actually (as we suspect it is in glipmses) something of the current moment and our immediate use of our agency to cause change. I'm plaigerizing Einstein, but time is just the convention that our limited minds have invented so that we don't have to experience everything at once. 4) Still I am thankful for more time, and that absurdity brings me hope and comfort. Hope of what? Salvation? Peace everlasting? Nirvana? Reincarnation? These thoughts arise from clinging to existence, and my existence is, and will still have been, after it has passed, so there is no real purpose for such hope. Comfort is the sole prize and that arises just from being thankful. What I observe retrospectively now, is that the approach to the transition event called death, is at the very end indistinguishable from falling asleep; and like sleep, it comes in a instant of peace and oblivion follows (at least initially). In my personal experience, death is just the projection of the image of a door on a wall that we walk or struggle up to, but don't actually step through. The anticipation of death (that thing we call "dying'') is an entirely different matter. In both cases for me I had no opportunity to dwell on it, and in once case when intense pain ceased I was calm, aware of the inpending end, sanguine, and (selfishly, in retrospect) quite disinterested in the links of love that were about to be severed. But for many dying is a horrible affair for themselves, and is combined with anguish for close ones. It can bring terror and pain and regret and anger and disappointment and lack of acceptance and fear and sorrow and despair. However this is exactly the same suffering that leading an unskillful life brings to the rest of us day-by-day Snoopy. (Snoopy doesn't know because he does live right). Yes Snoopy we do live everyday, but in more senses than one we also die a little every day. Still if we learn how to change our minds (mindset) we can free ourselves little by little by living more skillfully become better able to experience a life with meaning, and will also prepare for a dignified (dognified?) end. If you find yourself dwelling on death or the prospect of death, instead of dwelling on life and living (either through age, ill-health or from suffering too much) then take a timeout. Slow down and set your attention on what really matters (to you, and for all you connect to). There I go again! Far too many words to simply say - Nick Koemahavong thank you for your clarity!
A classic strip shows Charlie struggling to build a snowman while Snoopy just sits there watching him. As he finishes Charlie says "Be glad that you don't have to do this" to which Snoopy replies "I didn't think the task was compulsory".
I am too disabled to work and I live on SSI. Society does not value people like me. But I value myself and see my situation as a blessing, I do not have any desire to be a part of the rat race. I used to think I needed to become a famous artist to make up for my lack of ability to do a different job. But I have learned that forcing myself down that path doesn't make me happy and sucks all the joy out of creating. I no longer care if I am remembered after I die, especially not based on my creations. I have no desire for any more money than I need to survive and have a few treats now and again. Now that I have a child on the way I am even more grateful to not have to work, because I can focus on the well being of my child and building a relationship with them. "Success" is not everything, and you shouldn't let other people define whether or not you are successful. To me I am successful because I've figured out a way to survive even with all the odds against me and I am happy.
You have a unique opportunity to be able to raise your child with an attentiveness not found much anymore. I would envy your time but that would be a waste of mine. Be good to your child and teach them the value in themselves and the dangers of pleasures and sweet things.
@Ari October *Um, if you’re too disabled for a job, then how do you expect to take care of a **_baby...?_* *If you have a baby on the way, I assume you have a boyfriend or husband likely supplementing your income?* *If not, and you just got knocked up instead and you’re by yourself, then that’s a sign that perhaps you aren’t responsible enough to be in charge of a child’s well-being - just something to think about.*
Actually, it isn't bad to be productive. The real bad thing is being always busy. You should have time to think about your life - why are you doing this and that? Where are you going and why? What do you value, why?
I stopped chasing my goals and I've never been happier and less stressed. And I've ended up being more productive, creative and fulfilled because I'm doing things from a place of relaxed enjoyment rather than stress and craving.
Disclaimer, I am still not 100% I have terrible days of depression a listless energy. But these are now much fewer and much further between than ever. I was a MESS. And usually these days come from sliding back into old patterns of trying to force my life into something and putting pressure on myself. Then I remember to let go and just live.
@@JohnnysCoolStuff en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Songs_written_by_Ozzy_Osbourne. On that note, I am aware wiki can be wrong. However, in Sabbath Bloody Sabbath's booklet, Bill Ward says, "Ozzy's first self -penned song and arrangement, 'Who Are You' is a masterpiece." lol I was sure I read it in the past so I was compelled to find out and dug through my albums to find said booklet.
@@frankm.2850 B/c the employer always has new projects that don't end. That don't go anywhere. That get put on back burner. Teams are understaffed b/c there's a tight budget for new hires. Everyone's a manager no one's a worker. Its not about productivity its ONLY ABOUT STAYING BUSY.
@@frankm.2850 My thoughts exactly. I’ve always wondered why folks conflate busyness with being productive. Are they cultivating their character in the meantime?
Agree with you rockin'12x. I find myself saying that and hating the fact that I've said it. I see that as a red flag, especially when people say "Oh you look busy, and I didn't want to interrupt you." I am working on finding the balance of getting the job done, but also finding moments to allow happiness and reflection to bubble up throughout the day. Be well.
I used to work a high stress job 50-60 hours per week, away from home, living in hotels. Now I have a local job, 40 hours a week, with a lot less pay, but I'm a LOT happier.
I’m struggling with that right now, working 60-70 hours per week. The time I do spend with my family is in irritation. Really want to succeed in life for my family but it’s coming at the expense of “me”
As crazy as it sounds, I suggest not looking at work as something you do for your family. All kinds of resentment builds up when you do that. Your family dont want to fewl lile they owe you something, wbich is kind of the vibe you are jiggling mow.
@Millionaire Miggs haha man, puts things into perspective when you realize all those fancy degrees don’t mean squat for your mental sanity. Federal Attorney
When one of my mentors retired years ago I was in a group of people giving him a hard time about retiring early and he said " everyday I wake up with no goals, and by the end of the day i'm half way finished". I've always admired his response .
I recently had a midlife crisis and was incredibly depressed, so much so that I was crying every single day for 2 weeks. Then, I found you Nick, and you have made my life truly brighter, and so much more freeing. I feel alive again. For years I wanted to buy a house, to own a piece of land that was mine. Im 27 and was constantly racing towards getting one as well finding my calling in life career wise, and was so depressed and asking myself why I wasnt there yet. Today, I no longer care if I get a house or not, and ive come to realize that I dont really have a "dream job", and im totally okay with that. Theyre no longer my priority. I am training myself to dethatch from anything materialistic in this world, as i cant take it with me. I cant take my career with me. If it is meant for me, it will be, otherwise im not concerned about it. My main focus is healing my mind, and being free from this weight in my chest that ive been carrying for many years. One step at a time, I will get there. Thank you for being my inspiration. I come to your channel every single day
Awww I’m so glad to hear that it’s been helpful. Yes definitely take the pressure off yourself and come back to the present moment. just do your best in this moment and everything will fall into its place. Rooting for you my friend. You got this!
Something I do if I feel the pressure and stress of the world and society are getting to me is I close my eyes and imagine that I am in space, floating above the world, observing it from a distance. It really puts things into perspective for me and makes whatever I was stressing about seem insignificant.
The problem with Americans is that generally speaking our goal is not peace or tranquility or even happiness. Our goal is typically excitement and exhilaration; that is until we realize that constant excitement and exhilaration is exhausting and ultimately empty and painful.
@@Rusty69-er America offers NOTHING else except work and consumerism. You cannot live well in most large cities, and small American cities are either dead or are ghettos or poverty and misery. If you take away our Superbowl, Chipotle, and cheap credit, the country will collapse. No one's working for anything but the "Weekend" i.e. instant gratification.
@@Rusty69-er The western mode of living offers a very clear model of success - its equal to the amount of money you have. That's it. Very easily measurable. It is also unfitting for a lot of people and results in mass misery even in the midst of material cornucopia.
I think I really needed to hear this. I work a job that pays modestly while giving me the flexibility to do what I want with my life. I fill pretty much all of my free time with music. I play in two bands, one of which is becoming relatively successful, I'm constantly writing music, I practice every day, playing at festivals, going on tour, etc. I'm basically a rock star, living a life many people can only dream of. The hardest part is the creeping feeling in the back of my mind that I'm missing out on so much of what life has to offer. My lifestyle is so demanding that I don't have time to go on dates. I don't have the time to just sit in the woods and listen to the birds for a few hours. I don't have the time to watch a movie. Sometimes, I just feel like I don't even know what I want in my life and, worse, I don't know how to even begin looking. Sometimes, I feel like the reason I don't know what I really want is because I don't feel like I even exist in the first place. When I see shooting stars, I often find myself wishing for peace of mind.
I think about this often, most people are so preocupied with having a title, getting paid thousands, they tell you, you need to do something, time is clicking, do you have a title? what did you study? basically asking, who are you in this society. I've come to the conclusion that i just don't care, all i care is that i'm healthy, i'm happy and a good person, that i have enough income to cover my expenses and to reward myself from time to time, there's many people out there that have major titles or fame, but aren't truly happy, no thanks, rather live an ordinary life and be rich in my heart and soul, at the end that is what people remember you for, so live life according to your terms, at your own pace, and just be happy my friends, that is the biggest goal in this life, if you have achieved that, you already have everything, good luck, lots of love.
This video reminds me of a quote from the Buddha himself..."Those who are aware do not die. The ignorant are as if dead already." The famous Vietnamese poet, Thich Nhat Hanh, also has some simple advice as he says, "Slow down to go faster."
Never heard of this, but sounds about right. There’s a great line, I think in the Dao De Jing, to the effect that the fool learns something nee every day, while the sage forgets something everyday. Probably butchered it though
When I was young I chased money and success. My mind was never my own and was never in the present moment. It was always thinking ahead. Like when you eat a meal and you're halfway through it and you realise you have not even noticed what you are eating.
I was also always busy, busy, busy. My whole day was so full of activities as a mum. And when my kids were in bed I wanted to do as much as possible before going to bed. This is all in the past: I have learned to put myself first and not wait till the evening to maybe have time for myself. I do less during the day. I have a schedule. I think if it is important for me. I no longer do much after my kids are in bed. Except saying prayers or singing bhajans, read a book or anything that is relaxing for the mind. The first start of this journey started with the question Who am I? When you have a goal for your life and know why you are living your life, you do not find it important to do a lot of things during your day. Most of the things I did in the past were because of others. Wake up you live your life. You do not have to impress anyone. You have to grow your soul. You have to become close to God. Much love. xx
The LORD reigns; let the peoples tremble! He sits enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake! 2 The LORD is great in Zion; he is exalted over all the peoples. 3 Let them praise your great and awesome name! Holy is he! 4 The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. 5 Exalt the LORD our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he! 6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also was among those who called upon his name. They called to the LORD, and he answered them. 7 In the pillar of the cloud he spoke to them; they kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them. 8 O LORD our God, you answered them; you were a forgiving God to them, but an avenger of their wrongdoings. 9 Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the LORD our God is holy! (Psalm 99:1-9 ESV) Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. Praise Jesus, YAHWEH, The Almighty God's Precious and Holy Name. Hallelujah Praise be to LORD Jesus. Amen and Amen.
I have no problem being still, I like being alone with myself. My problem is, I am out of balance with too much stillness. I enjoy being out in nature with my animals the most. I love to do needlework and yoga and honestly just happily spend a lot of time sitting If it weren’t for the time I waste on RUclips I would feel like I was doing ok. Society would call me lazy but then, Society as whole has got it all wrong. We are pretty much conditioned from the beginning that its not ok to just “BE”
Forget algorithms, and specially forget what people say, people also tell me that all the time... just do what you all love to do, whenever you feel like doing it, it's your life, live it the way it makes you happy.
Being a practicing Buddhist and a lay person it used to be difficult sometimes to find that stillness. I've made choices to change my life to achieve a balance. Thank you for this reminder 🙏
While it’s not something everyone can do, I’ve taken on most of the eight precepts as my normal practice. Cutting out entertainment opens up a lot of time for meditation, sutta study, reading dhamma books, and stillness. Not always easy, but transformative, especially in the good of’ USA.
Personally, I don't think I need a lot of 'stuff' to be content. I feel happy when I put a smile on someone's face, give them just a little love and value, make them feel they exist. I create little money which gets me going. I see human beings as human beings and not as titles and status. I did chase material in the past. It made me happy for a short time. It's not permanent. "Being" is permanent. This place, the world is a journey. Things, people, places, everything changes. Why attaching so much with it? Yes, writing on my journal makes me happy. Thank you Nick my friend! You are so beautiful!
I think this is the key points of these philosophy schools whether its stoicism, buddhism, taoism. The idea pf being content with yourself directly has an effect on how you treat people or how you bring value to them. If you're always grumpy about work, money, fame even many religious people these days especially in my country you're bringing negativity to the lives of people. This is why I love buddhism so much, good deeds (to yourself and others) come first, being right or wrong is only secondary we can't avoid being wrong or making a mistake
“The present moment is all you ever have” - Eckhart Tolle. Enjoy the journey to your goals because the end destination is fleeting/temporary. The ride however is forever !!
When I was a teenager, I realized that no one cared if they were working toward the end of the human species, so I decided not to help the human species work toward its own end.
most people don't climb a wall their success is made on crushing others. It all starts from a group of people who gave themselves the right to print currency at will (floating currency system) which has the consequence to control the lives of others. This is the biggest crime ever commited in the history of humanity, the sentence should be commensurate to the crime.
1) Get to know yourself and your values. 2) Understand your intentions behind your goals and keep them as true to your values as possible. 3) Then take action.
Thank you for this reminder - Stillness is often looked on as "laziness" and productivity praised as an "achievement". I took 2 years off of Uni because it was killing me, and now I have a much clearer vision for my life (which doesn't include Uni!). Sometimes you get set on a path and you don't even remember why you're there. Taking time to slow down and reflect on your own values and priorities in the bigger picture is so important! Thank you again
I’m old school so to speak but one great thing about technology is connecting with pure humans from peaceful places on this earth. I live in a big city and I love the scenery etc but my ultimate goal is to have the peaceful tranquility inside me the calming existence on the inside to feel the wholeness in order to fill the gaps of desire with a healthy core. Thank for spreading your wisdom that most don’t get from being too busy distracted by the fast life.
"my ultimate goal is to have the peaceful tranquility inside me" I wonder if you see how the goal is preventing the restfulness from happening though.. :D
I am very diligent about the exposure of my senses.I limit my screen time to talks like these for a very specific time each day .I meditate and pray at sunrise and sunset so that my very busy corporate job is punctuated by these peaceful states.Thanks again for these gems Ven Nick🙏
I would say that part of the issue is if the focus is too much on oneself instead of others, then it becomes a problem. And also, there truly is a need for stillness and contemplation in our society that is not valued. Thank you for this important message . . .
I am 37 and have no more materialistic expectations from this world. I still find working hard keeps me going but I know where to draw the line. This has led me to appreciate the smallest things. I live in a metro city for work and when I go back to my birth place, I find it to be the best place to travel for vacation.
We have to work to live so unfortunately being busy can’t always be avoided. I don’t like working and it is so hectic and stressful but no choice. I try to be still as much as possible after work but also stressed and exhausted. Such is life. Thank you for your kind words. It is always inspiring and hopeful to listen to your videos. Thank you ❤️
Wonderful video Ven. Nick. For decades, I see people loading up on activities for themselves & even their children. They’re constantly in a “full throttle” mode. I’m not sure if it’s a competitive thing or something else. I see it as a very unhealthy way to go about things. I’m a firm believer in slowing down, enjoy the journey. That way we don’t miss seeing beautiful things. Blessings always 🙏🏻❤️
I agree. The times I stop and remain "still" I feel like I'm allowing the idea/plan to simmer in my mind. Like I'm permitting my mind to digest the circumstance and once it's ready it directs me into action. The antidote to"busyness" is living life as an art.
But it won't cure cancer or AIDS. Won't give water to those who need it. Won't build housing. Won't make modern medical breakthroughs. The Taghagata said - MODERATION, not just sit and observe.
Spent twenty years running toward some goal. Only recently did I realize that the only destination that I can be sure of is the end of this human experience. It is so hard to slow down. It is like speaking a foreign language...
@Stephen Dickens Thank you for the thoughts. In my perspective, it is all ego. Anything/everything that comes after the thought "I/it exist(s)", is ego. Enjoy your journey. It might end in 5 minutes. I don't know.
Lol. U two notice how u were destined to debate instead of listen. I noticed when I was laughing at the know it all that I am the unjust judger. My bad. I hope u have a bored day. :)
I struggle a lot trying to balance being productive but also being present and taking care of myself. it's hard to know the difference between the two. I always wonder if I'm just making excuses and being lazy. The thing is, sometimes we get obsessed with the idea of being productive because we need to work extra hard in order to be able to live a safer life. When you live in a toxic or dangerous place not being productive means you're not gonna get out of there any time soon. I feel anxious when I think it will take longer for me to leave where I live because I'm not working hard enough :(
I struggle with this so much, the need to be productive it’s been so toxic for me and my health. I’ve slowly started to work on just being still and in the moment. Thank you for this video and something I will reflect on when i am still 😊
Iroh, from Avatar: The Last Airbender, asked his nephew, "And then what?! You never think these things through. It's time to start asking yourself the big questions: who are you? and what do you want?" I don't like Iroh as much as other people (he's a flat character and the old-man / sage archetype in literature), but I have thought about that question "And then what?" In the Rankin and Bass animated The Return of the King, Samwise reflects on power, status, and control as he battles the dominance of the ring. He rejects the ring and reflects, saying, "One small garden of a free gardener is all my needs and due. My own two hands to use." I reflect on that metaphor of a small garden with the plans I am cultivating and the actions I take. This video was nice. Thank you for taking time to speak with people through social media.
@@spencervance8484 Iroh carried that whole show, turning it from a superficial kids' cartoon into a compelling story that I even enjoyed re-watching as an adult. The wisdom surprised me sometimes, and that "leaves from the vine" mini episode really hit home...
Great message. Make sure sure your destination is worthwhile to you before you even set down the path. Too often in life, I have found myself paddling like mad and making sacrifices to get through a major project only to get near the end and be about to cross the finish line when I reflect back on everything and ask myself "was this even worth it?" and then clearly answer "no, not at all." I'm getting better, but I could still do a better job of just asking that question upfront, before I set off on the journey. ✌️
I often pour so much energy into tasks that I think will confirm the story I have in my mind about who I am or who I need to be. Thanks for this reflection which reminded me that often those stories are fictions and matter very little to my inner peace and calm. May you all be happy, at peace, and free from the suffering our own minds create!
Excellent reminder for many ! At any given moment your health can be taken from you and all your money and work and status is worthless. I experienced this. Peace of mind and health are my priority.
I agre,i learn this truth when working in a hospital and seeing people of all ages die.this world is not our permanent home.that tells me the reason highly spiritual people says,die before you die.🙂
Great reminder! Impermanence is one of the cornerstones of Buddha’s teachings. Today could be the last day here on earth. We have no idea when life is over. But we do know that life is short and we would be better off using the little time we have left preparing for the future, beyond this life. The irony is that this kind of predicament can create a different kind of urgency than what a busy lifestyle is. If we don’t observe ourselves properly we can end up on a very busy spiritual path instead of a worldly one. Meditation according to sound instructions is they key to cut through such obstacles along the path. Remember, a key quality of an enlightened mind is peace. Let your mind rest. In that state you may find what a blessing impermanence actually is! We learn to accept it. We learn to be it. We are an expression of impermanence. That’s what we are. Nothing to hold on to at all.
It amazes me how loud this message has been lately for me. For a while, I've felt that I messed up "too much." I "wasn't doing enough." OMG I watched a series and relaxed instead of writing another 20 hours. (writing is one of my favorite things to do, and I'm happy doing it. But it is SO demanding, and it takes A LOT of energy.) But Spirit has been telling me "you're doing SO MUCH more than you realize You're doing more than enough. Slow down." Yesterday, I just went to my job, and I was super hyper and dizzy, and exhausted. I grounded when I got home, and then fell asleep. Now I KNOW how important slowing down is.
I agree. The when you actually get productivity culture sometimes doesn't realize that they already have everything they want and need. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you brother, even as a Muslim, I appreciate your videos so much. How uncanny it is, that I was reading the Quran, chapter 81, and I came to the words, "So where, really, are you going?". Listening to you has helped me further.
The idea that there is more to life than productivity/accumulation is a pretty central teaching in most religions. The little I know of Islam it sounds like a beautiful tradition that is gravely misunderstood in the West, especially the USA. Your fundamentalists may be more violent than those of the Christian faith, but they are no less a minority than the people who bomb commit acts of violence in Jesus’ name.
Thank you kindly, Nick People do many things seeking happiness. But no one who is happy seeks things to do. Slow down, you move to fast, you got to make the morning last, 🎶 🎵 look at the fun of feeling groovy, 🎼
My mom is an extremely productive person, but her goals are always very selfless and to serve others. Btw I love how non-judgmental and kindhearted this man is!
Sir, I believe that thank you is a very little word for what you are doing. I am of the age 25..I believe that If every human apply the teachings of GAUTAM BUDDHA in their respective lives..then there will be no hatred..I am practicing all what you say at my home and living a peaceful live..Keep sharing sir 🌻🌈👍
Humanity is advancing in a direction that is very unknown very fast. Here is one that perceives and thinks before acting. Knowledge like this is rare and he shares it for all freely. Heed these words always as it could help most through their lives in these most strange times.
Sometimes I remind myself the only thing I really need to do is eat, drink water, breathe and sleep. If I make it to tomorrow, I succeeded at being human.
Thank you for a much needed reminder. Busyness is sometimes referred to as a form of laziness within Buddhist teachings. Which, in a way, shows us how far we are from using our time in this world properly. But, thanks to impermanence and the placid nature of mind we can change that approach to life in an instant, if we want to. It may seem to be in contradiction and conflict with social norms but in actual fact when we are peaceful and have a healthy mind we will be able to contribute positively much more in the world. What needs to happen is that we need to take control over our minds and lives instead of being ruled by habits and unrealistic expectations. There is no need for blame but all we need to do is to make a shift in our mindset. A non-violent approach of shifting over. A mind at rest can be a most “productive” mind of all. At the end, there’s no opposition between an active or restful mind. It is all pervasive lucid awareness. But right now, we probably need to find our own restful nature, more than ever!
Dear Mr. Keomahavong. All you are saying is in my heart for a very long time. I guess my parents taught me to value life over riches. But still it's challenging to find the right balance. I guess it has to do with the way we live our life. We are disconnected from what our biology is made for. For millions of years mankind lived close to nature. And now we live in cities which are always awake. I found for myself good practice is to reconnect to our inner nature. It's the simple things that bring balance to our lives. Wake up with the sunrise. Go to bed with the sunset. Be awake and physical active at day time and calm down in the evening. Get things done during daytime. Don't pull an all-nighter. Eat healthy food. Move your body and exercise - it's made for it. Enjoy the little things - the taste of coffee, the refelctions in water, sun beams in your eyes, the smile of a friend, the wind in your hair and so on. Do not overrate negative thoughts - treat them as warnings and not as guides. Focus on positive thoughts. See other people as if they were youself. If they are angry with you, they don't know what drives you, or they have had a bad day, or they see something in you that has nothing to do with you. Treat them the way you treat yourself - always nice and forgiving. A good live is not about running for survival. It's about balance, like the tides of the ocean. Btw. most of that is backed up by neurobiology. Especially the points about light. You can find podcasts from a scientist who is talking about this topic here on youtube. His name is Andrew Huberman. I can really recommend listening to this.
America's workaholic culture is slowly killing us through stress. We convince ourselves to work so hard for a paycheck we won't even get to enjoy because we have no time. Half the time, we don't think about a specific goal. And if we do, we don't reflect on what the result was and if it was worth it.
I think many may be doing it out of necessity and that's sad. But I cant understand people who do it voluntarily, unless working in an occupation where other peoples lives depend on you. Some work is fine and to be expected, but working so much you almost never get to rest out and enjoy life, cant possibly be worth it if you can meet your basic needs without. Beyond that what you can buy for money is just an extra bonus that may easily be outweighed by the downsides of working too much, you cant pay to have the downsides of constant overwork/stress and no free-time disappear
@@zakosist yes i agree. The gist of what I'm getting at, is that we convince ourselves of extras that just complicate our lives and add unnecessary suffering. Of course we have to work because thats the nature of society and life especially if there are those that depend on us financially, spiritually, etc. Do what you have to but not at the cost of your own health and well being or else the work will be all for nothing.
@@waluigi43 after a recent situation of working too hard for a paycheck I'll never get to enjoy because I'm neber home, i thought to myself "yo who thought of 40 hour work weeks? Shits lowkey wack".
Dear Nick: These "productivity" people are an opportunity for you and your fellow monks who have the heart and the knack to help. But they have to come to you first. Best of luck and thank you for doing this.
The title at first gave me a little bit of a bad impression but once I gave the video a chance the clarification removed my skepticism. I remember watching a few psychologists who say the same as what you're saying in this video in a different way. Even the hyper productive business man will become MORE productive if he takes the occasional vacation. If you pour more water into your cup it'll flow faster when you go to water your crops.
It would seem that all of our societal conditioning has been based on productivity. But It appears that the truth of finding true happiness is the UNLEARNING of that conditioning. And that is the work. THANK YOU for the video!
Good message. People often distract themselves with the hustle, put too much meaning in the end-goal and think that achieving it will magically make them happy. Instead, it often leaves them empty, until they either take time for reflection or decide to occupy their mind with different hustle. Contentment can't be found anywhere out there, gotta look inside for that.
At the end of the day,is your mind at peace with whatever happens.if we can be at peace,then goals are just pointers to the destination that we have arrive.
I'd like to say to you, yes, generally fine, especially if it fine for you! So, not criticizing, just like to add that - in a way - this might be (called) a point of view of a person in a materially wealthy situation. I mean, it doesn't come from nowhere that 'we' (human beings) have the habit to have goals. If you are in a situation where you have to struggle, which isn't comfortable or where it's a matter of survival, you will probably have goals (very simple ones...warmth... food... shelter..) and try your best to achieve them. The problem is maybe that we have the tendency (also out of fear and other reasons) to keep struggling when we already have what we basically need. Just wanted to say this, a bit of support and thumbs up for goals. Happy day to you and everyone around!
@@helloalanframe goal less ness for the sake of not having goals is in a way an attachment to goals. You can have goals but do it for the right reasons, like compassion.
I've learned the harder you work the more you gain to lose.. If your working for the money..I would stop. Find something you love to do and do that. Forget about the money & what ppl say or may think of you. You will find someone that loves doing what your doing. I heard a quote that i repeat often. "The most dangerous person in the world is one that could care less of what ppl think of them, once you free yourself and your mind your possibilities are endless"
I love this!! I’ve found that my inner peace is so important in shaping the future I want alongside making my dreams come true. Feels like I almost lost myself at one point trying to follow everyone else’s road when mine was the most beneficial one for me
Hi Nick through listening to your talks l have leaned to rest my mind and body when working outside in my garden. I have done a lot of work the last week and in my mind l watch your students in the garden working so calmly and I’m try to follow their way and not make it a chore and hard work. Thank you Sheila
Im the person who dont fit in in the "hustle attitude" its depressing. With that said i don't even know why its depressing for me. At first i thought im the problem. Maybe its the fact that after all the hustles in life i realized i deserve everything necessary stuff without the the never ending hustles.
I’m just trying to hustle now so I can remove the things that burden me later. I feel that wanting more cannot bring happiness, but rather eliminating the bad can clear the way to realizing an active state of happiness. Of course, you can find happiness within the struggle, but the entire point of the struggle is an attempt, whether fruitful or not, to eliminate it. That is our condition.
For me,balanced or unbalanced is depend on our practice.If we really follow teaching of the Buddha's Dhamma,the way we are going is the right direction.
Being a monk in general is basically incredible, but it takes much to discard all the toughts and become one, in my opinion In our society there's so much stigma for people working or studying "not enough", and as Nick said, The Hustle lifestyle just takes so much from us, that we struggle to speak, it's terrifying I also appreciate Nick's values in life - happiness, for yourself and your peers, and i feel it more and more everyday that's it's becoming less common, people crave success
Eh, it's considered to be the easy way for some, because you don't need to make a living, and was used to avoid political persecution, but very hard for others. You just have to be dilligent, wake early, go bindhabatr, say prayers, and not eat dinner. But to really be devoted to and to embody the teachings of the buddha is a different story altogether. Namaskar luang phee krub.
In my personal point of view, I found that the journey is the most important part of life. We forget about this once people think they are so-called successful. They aren't happy, because they think they made it and it isn't what they expected it to feel like. We get the car we wanted, we get the money, the girl we wanted, we get whatever, but it was the journey that was and still is the most important part of this life. The journey only ends when you are dead, and even then, there is still a happening after we are gone. We leave our mark as did our ancestors before us. And future generations get to look back and see what kind of journey we lead. This to me is one of the most beautiful things about life.
I am so happy i find your channel! your questions i take to me and i will reflect my self.... Thanks very much!🙏 I love to listen your wise words, they are like keys to open doors....
Thank you, Venerable Nick. It is ironic. The ad I saw before your video came on, a young, handsome Asian man was talking about how we let our past dictate our future. This prevents us from achieving our goals because our brain is hardwired to above all keep us safe. Our brain learns from past negative experiences how to do that, and THAT’S what our will is going to follow, with no regard for our future and our goals. His prescription for this is a webinar that will teach us to remap our past, to one which will be congruent with our goals. Very smart, I thought. But what would Venerable Nick’s prescription be, I asked myself? Let go of the past; let go of the future, instead engage the present moment in the deepest way. Difficult to accomplish? Sure. More difficult than reprogramming the mind’s understanding of its past? I’m not so sure. But to do that much mental effort for the sake of striving after goals that can’t deliver happiness? I like your “program” better.😊
I think you have to put in work for a period of time to get your money right, then you can wholeheartedly give yourself proper attention. But I agree, you should really consider if your aim is leading to a place which is more conducive to peace or are you just blowing up your ego which is ultimately a distraction from doing the hard internal Labor of "untying your knots".
@@nickkeomahavong01 i hate to type more and be a bother. But this really helped me when i was having a mini panic attack during work, work i really am not happy about. Work i just do for money and health benefits has caused me more bad than good. More stress and less activity that can be focused on what i really want, which is to help other humans in anyway i can. I use to be active in possitive things. Helping mentally challenged kids, teaching people basic cooking skills and stuff like that. Now i sit infront of a laptop from home with more stress to meet a quota that means nothing to me other than if i dont i can lose my job. Sorry to ramble, but this and other such videos you talk in have really put that flame under me to change something . Thank you isn't enough. If i could express it more i would.
Ven. Nick, I think as per Lord Buddha, we have to do whatever we are doing, be it work, relationship or anything mindfully. Also try to be in the present moment and not in the past or future. Past is gone and future has not come yet. No point thinking of any of those two. Being happy in the present moment is the key. Am I right?
Most people think they will eventually find happiness. Not true. You make the decision to to be happy right now. Write down every single thing you are grateful for and it will leave you feeling great!
Sawadee Krup Khun Keomahavong, If you ever come down the mountain and visit Chiangmai I'd love to invite you for tea and have a chat. Keep up the great work, Ian (a Dhamma friend in Chiangmai)
I think your videos are some of the most practical Buddhist advice I've come across. Not easy all the time, but practical. I appreciate your therapist experience being used to create a secular bridge for people who are less familiar with Buddhism to really understand how to use it in their own lives too, because honestly it might sound woo woo at first to people who haven't learned about it yet. You don't have to believe in reincarnation to get something out of these videos.
![Watch this if you want to Stop wasting time - Shi Heng Yi [LIFE ADVICE]](/img/1.gif)
Reflect on your life. Can you genuinely say that it is balanced? and are you going the right direction?
Hustle, hustle, hustle, I switched to part time job but I'm still hustling 🏃♀️🤸♀️🏃♀️. This is life in 🇺🇸.
They always talk about the importance of work life balance but they do the opposite, demanding more from me 😢. I had to bring work home at least twice a week just to keep afloat.
Some weekends I try not to check my work email and focus on myself and things that makes me happy, spend time with my siblings, extended family, and few good friends. All that only to hustle again comes Monday 🤪.
Am I happy? Yes, happy especially on my days off.
Direction in life? I don't need much material things but my goal is to be useful to society and help other people in many ways whenever I can.
Thanks Nick 🤗
@@juliaangelicaa5395 Sadhu sadhu. Yes that is so true with many workplace. The focus is on productivity versus the balanced employee. It's very interesting.
@@nickkeomahavong01 Work stress is aging me double time.
I find watching your videos insightful and relaxing. I've began to incorporate meditation into my life, thanks to you 👌🏻
Thank you Nick for the reminder.🙏🌺At my age ,almost 50 yrs ..I am finding that I just want to balance things I have in my life already and not chase things I don't.I remind myself all the time to slow down &breathe ..enjoy this moment more.When I don't slow down then my health esp suffers .My life isn't balanced yet ..mainly because I don't focus enough , get distracted easily and spend time worrying about the unimportant things.
When I was in my twenties I didn't want to do anything. I hate to admit it but I sponged off of people. Then one day I did what I had been told I needed to do. I got a full time job, I went to work every day. Sometimes I worked six and seven days a week ten and twelve hours a day. People in my life said I was doing the right thing. My various bosses gave me good reviews. This went on for years. Then I was told I had cancer. My employer cut ties with me as soon as my FMLA leave was up. I went through chemo, radiation and surgery. Now I once again have no job though this time I get disability so no sponging off of people. At the same time I'm right back where I started twenty years ago. Neither working all the time nor sitting around seem to be in balance. I'm not sure where I'm supposed to go from here.
...So tired of the hustle culture. All I want to do is walk in the woods, take care of my family and garden, and read/write/draw. Then go to sleep, wake up, and do again.
Wonderful :-)
this sounds like a beautiful existence.
everyone does but in our society you need to make money in order to do that :/
That is truly wonderful! I've been straying further and further from that path but I hope I can get better at it. Really want my goals to succeed though so I'm scared of not working as hard for them
A life worth living
All of my busy-ness has been based on the fear of being a “nobody “ and an effort to justify my existence. Now I have learned to embrace being a “nobody “ and no longer strive to live out the expectations of productivity and worth placed on me by society and peers. This brings a deep peace and centeredness that creates a space where I can truly live from the heart and do the things that really matter.
I agree. This hustle culture makes the vast majority of people unhappy. They feel guilty for not being "productive" so much that they can't enjoy their leisure activities.
Beautifully stated. That craving and longing to be and to have brings so much unnecessary suffering. I'm glad you were able to discover that for yourself. That's wonderful!
@@bossnessdesgarron4270 Yes! so very true with the "guilty" word.
Very true Mr. Makarios!
I have the same problem in my mind, fear of being "nobody". I am 34 years old, have been unemployed for a longer time, and from the very begining of my period being without job, I feel tremendous pressure and judgment from the society, neighbours and my peers. Its no so comfortable to "swim against the stream" but I do my best to let it go and to live slowed-down lifestyle.
Kind regards to dear Nick and to all viewers. May all people watching this channel find peace within and suffer less. 🍀🙏
@@miroslavkozik987 Deep peace to you as well!
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. Thank you for the video.
You're welcome. thank you my friend :)
Have you been to a watering hole? Nature does hurry. Keep your eyes open as you are taking a drink. Danger lurks.
That is a great saying, who said it?
Patience is for lazy people, we want persistance.
Nature doesn't hurry huh? Get out with your eyes open. Things are devoured in split seconds! Also try sitting near the rapids or out running a buffalo.
As a diligent procrastinator, I've understood this since childhood
Somebody just asked me why I hate the military
Ha ha ha. I'm with you. I'm waiting for the right time I hope I'm not too late. If I am so be it. I know one thing it has to be perfect and real or nothing.
@@johnpilapil9250 thats a perfect example!
@@johnpilapil9250 fuck that world. Getting up at 6, grind all day, worn out after 5 years.
@Aristides Gonzalez Well by his reply he obviously stated that he didn't want to have anything to do with military life. He's never been in military and doesn't care to.
Money can buy a very comfortable bed, but doesn't guarantee a comfortable sleep.
money can buy you tranquilizers, lol
@@CaptainObvious0000 but you need to wake up someday
that depends on where you got the money....
Yeah, it kinda does. Sorry.
Yeah, and without money you'll sleep like a baby. Waking up every two hours crying. In an unconformable bed.
Charlie Brown says to Snoopy...’you only live once’
Snoopy replies...’wrong, you only die once, you live everyday’
I never knew Snoopy is so wise.
@@AishawithanEye snoopy is a liver of life. He lives life to the fullest.
I say you're right Merlin Man, but I'd like to pick a bone with Snoopy! And bust open the last taboo, and talk a bit about death - I hope this might help in these pandemic days. Snoopy, no we don't only die once, we never die! To die you have to experience death, to experience is to observe and reflect on something. We do experience dying, but not death itself, because we walk out right at the high point of the show. None of us stick around to observe or reflect on how we played our part in the leading role. One's own death then, isn't a real experience. It is empty, and nothingness shouldn't be feared or hoped for. Twice in my life I have had my consciousness extinguished (in circumstances where others have assessed and noted that somebody - me - had died), and twice I have been reanimated from this state, and blessed with some more time on earth. My personal reflection on this now is 1) No, my continued subjectivity attests that I didn't die. 2) I experienced a discontinuity of consciousness and my timeline was broken - I did not float up to the ceiling and watch from afar, no light or tunnel appeared. 3) Time (as in more time) has no real substance in reality, and reality itself is not as we see it, but actually (as we suspect it is in glipmses) something of the current moment and our immediate use of our agency to cause change. I'm plaigerizing Einstein, but time is just the convention that our limited minds have invented so that we don't have to experience everything at once. 4) Still I am thankful for more time, and that absurdity brings me hope and comfort. Hope of what? Salvation? Peace everlasting? Nirvana? Reincarnation? These thoughts arise from clinging to existence, and my existence is, and will still have been, after it has passed, so there is no real purpose for such hope. Comfort is the sole prize and that arises just from being thankful. What I observe retrospectively now, is that the approach to the transition event called death, is at the very end indistinguishable from falling asleep; and like sleep, it comes in a instant of peace and oblivion follows (at least initially). In my personal experience, death is just the projection of the image of a door on a wall that we walk or struggle up to, but don't actually step through. The anticipation of death (that thing we call "dying'') is an entirely different matter. In both cases for me I had no opportunity to dwell on it, and in once case when intense pain ceased I was calm, aware of the inpending end, sanguine, and (selfishly, in retrospect) quite disinterested in the links of love that were about to be severed. But for many dying is a horrible affair for themselves, and is combined with anguish for close ones. It can bring terror and pain and regret and anger and disappointment and lack of acceptance and fear and sorrow and despair. However this is exactly the same suffering that leading an unskillful life brings to the rest of us day-by-day Snoopy. (Snoopy doesn't know because he does live right). Yes Snoopy we do live everyday, but in more senses than one we also die a little every day. Still if we learn how to change our minds (mindset) we can free ourselves little by little by living more skillfully become better able to experience a life with meaning, and will also prepare for a dignified (dognified?) end. If you find yourself dwelling on death or the prospect of death, instead of dwelling on life and living (either through age, ill-health or from suffering too much) then take a timeout. Slow down and set your attention on what really matters (to you, and for all you connect to). There I go again! Far too many words to simply say - Nick Koemahavong thank you for your clarity!
A classic strip shows Charlie struggling to build a snowman while Snoopy just sits there watching him. As he finishes Charlie says "Be glad that you don't have to do this" to which Snoopy replies "I didn't think the task was compulsory".
@@amp2amp800 hey can you sum that up for me
It’s a shame when you climb the ladder only to realize it was leaning against the wrong wall.
Great video.
Thank you my friend 😊😊
Really well said!
I am too disabled to work and I live on SSI. Society does not value people like me. But I value myself and see my situation as a blessing, I do not have any desire to be a part of the rat race. I used to think I needed to become a famous artist to make up for my lack of ability to do a different job. But I have learned that forcing myself down that path doesn't make me happy and sucks all the joy out of creating. I no longer care if I am remembered after I die, especially not based on my creations. I have no desire for any more money than I need to survive and have a few treats now and again. Now that I have a child on the way I am even more grateful to not have to work, because I can focus on the well being of my child and building a relationship with them. "Success" is not everything, and you shouldn't let other people define whether or not you are successful. To me I am successful because I've figured out a way to survive even with all the odds against me and I am happy.
I value you and you're way of thinking.
You have a unique opportunity to be able to raise your child with an attentiveness not found much anymore. I would envy your time but that would be a waste of mine. Be good to your child and teach them the value in themselves and the dangers of pleasures and sweet things.
@Ari October *Um, if you’re too disabled for a job, then how do you expect to take care of a **_baby...?_*
*If you have a baby on the way, I assume you have a boyfriend or husband likely supplementing your income?*
*If not, and you just got knocked up instead and you’re by yourself, then that’s a sign that perhaps you aren’t responsible enough to be in charge of a child’s well-being - just something to think about.*
@@idcanymore5287 *She’s a way of thinking?*
*You might need to rethink your entire opinion.*
@@zachschmidt6316 *Yeah, no - if she’s disabled and living by herself, then she isn’t qualified to take care of a child - think about it.*
"Is it good to have plans and be productive?
No-"
That's all I needed to hear!
,😂
The answer is already in your heart my friend, listen to it closely
I love sleeping on the grass and be one with nature
Man that answer is going to usher in depression and biggest bankruptcy man has ever seen. Spirituality is being PRACTICAL.
Actually, it isn't bad to be productive. The real bad thing is being always busy. You should have time to think about your life - why are you doing this and that? Where are you going and why? What do you value, why?
I stopped chasing my goals and I've never been happier and less stressed. And I've ended up being more productive, creative and fulfilled because I'm doing things from a place of relaxed enjoyment rather than stress and craving.
This is wonderful 😊
Im experiencing it too bro .
I just stopped motivational videos, stopped following online gurus , just living happily 👍
Disclaimer, I am still not 100% I have terrible days of depression a listless energy. But these are now much fewer and much further between than ever. I was a MESS. And usually these days come from sliding back into old patterns of trying to force my life into something and putting pressure on myself. Then I remember to let go and just live.
So happy for you to hear that youre doing bettet now!
Having goals is highly over rated. We change constantly so we can't know if we'll want the same thing in the future as we want today.
“I write music I like, and if other people like it, great” - Ozzy Osbourne
Crazy train 😵
I don't think Ozzy ever wrote anything.
@@JohnnysCoolStuff en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Songs_written_by_Ozzy_Osbourne. On that note, I am aware wiki can be wrong. However, in Sabbath Bloody Sabbath's booklet, Bill Ward says, "Ozzy's first self -penned song and arrangement, 'Who Are You' is a masterpiece." lol I was sure I read it in the past so I was compelled to find out and dug through my albums to find said booklet.
I am amazed at how many people present "I am so busy" as a stand-alone accomplishment these days!
Agreed. Being busy can be a sign of lack of competence as much as anything. If you’re constantly busy, how effective are you?
@@frankm.2850 B/c the employer always has new projects that don't end. That don't go anywhere. That get put on back burner. Teams are understaffed b/c there's a tight budget for new hires. Everyone's a manager no one's a worker. Its not about productivity its ONLY ABOUT STAYING BUSY.
@@frankm.2850 My thoughts exactly. I’ve always wondered why folks conflate busyness with being productive. Are they cultivating their character in the meantime?
Agree with you rockin'12x. I find myself saying that and hating the fact that I've said it. I see that as a red flag, especially when people say "Oh you look busy, and I didn't want to interrupt you." I am working on finding the balance of getting the job done, but also finding moments to allow happiness and reflection to bubble up throughout the day. Be well.
Richard Parker Yeah busy trying to fill that empty shell of a human being.
I used to work a high stress job 50-60 hours per week, away from home, living in hotels. Now I have a local job, 40 hours a week, with a lot less pay, but I'm a LOT happier.
That is wonderful to hear :-) that's great balance for your situation.
I’m struggling with that right now, working 60-70 hours per week. The time I do spend with my family is in irritation. Really want to succeed in life for my family but it’s coming at the expense of “me”
As crazy as it sounds, I suggest not looking at work as something you do for your family. All kinds of resentment builds up when you do that. Your family dont want to fewl lile they owe you something, wbich is kind of the vibe you are jiggling mow.
40 hours is too much. 30 is max we should be doing
@Millionaire Miggs haha man, puts things into perspective when you realize all those fancy degrees don’t mean squat for your mental sanity. Federal Attorney
When one of my mentors retired years ago I was in a group of people giving him a hard time about retiring early and he said " everyday I wake up with no goals, and by the end of the day i'm half way finished". I've always admired his response .
I'm right there with your mentor...it's all I can do just to keep going every day.
I recently had a midlife crisis and was incredibly depressed, so much so that I was crying every single day for 2 weeks. Then, I found you Nick, and you have made my life truly brighter, and so much more freeing. I feel alive again. For years I wanted to buy a house, to own a piece of land that was mine. Im 27 and was constantly racing towards getting one as well finding my calling in life career wise, and was so depressed and asking myself why I wasnt there yet. Today, I no longer care if I get a house or not, and ive come to realize that I dont really have a "dream job", and im totally okay with that. Theyre no longer my priority. I am training myself to dethatch from anything materialistic in this world, as i cant take it with me. I cant take my career with me. If it is meant for me, it will be, otherwise im not concerned about it. My main focus is healing my mind, and being free from this weight in my chest that ive been carrying for many years. One step at a time, I will get there. Thank you for being my inspiration. I come to your channel every single day
Awww I’m so glad to hear that it’s been helpful. Yes definitely take the pressure off yourself and come back to the present moment. just do your best in this moment and everything will fall into its place. Rooting for you my friend. You got this!
Something I do if I feel the pressure and stress of the world and society are getting to me is I close my eyes and imagine that I am in space, floating above the world, observing it from a distance. It really puts things into perspective for me and makes whatever I was stressing about seem insignificant.
Thank you. That's a great idea.
We already are floating through space though
The problem with Americans is that generally speaking our goal is not peace or tranquility or even happiness. Our goal is typically excitement and exhilaration; that is until we realize that constant excitement and exhilaration is exhausting and ultimately empty and painful.
Yes we need peace 😊
@@Rusty69-er You got it!
@@Rusty69-er America offers NOTHING else except work and consumerism. You cannot live well in most large cities, and small American cities are either dead or are ghettos or poverty and misery.
If you take away our Superbowl, Chipotle, and cheap credit, the country will collapse. No one's working for anything but the "Weekend" i.e. instant gratification.
@@Rusty69-er The western mode of living offers a very clear model of success - its equal to the amount of money you have. That's it. Very easily measurable. It is also unfitting for a lot of people and results in mass misery even in the midst of material cornucopia.
@@Rusty69-er but there is a clearly defined model of success. Some just don't like it....I said that
I think I really needed to hear this. I work a job that pays modestly while giving me the flexibility to do what I want with my life. I fill pretty much all of my free time with music. I play in two bands, one of which is becoming relatively successful, I'm constantly writing music, I practice every day, playing at festivals, going on tour, etc. I'm basically a rock star, living a life many people can only dream of.
The hardest part is the creeping feeling in the back of my mind that I'm missing out on so much of what life has to offer. My lifestyle is so demanding that I don't have time to go on dates. I don't have the time to just sit in the woods and listen to the birds for a few hours. I don't have the time to watch a movie.
Sometimes, I just feel like I don't even know what I want in my life and, worse, I don't know how to even begin looking. Sometimes, I feel like the reason I don't know what I really want is because I don't feel like I even exist in the first place.
When I see shooting stars, I often find myself wishing for peace of mind.
thank you so much for sharing Tony 🙂🙂
I think about this often, most people are so preocupied with having a title, getting paid thousands, they tell you, you need to do something, time is clicking, do you have a title? what did you study? basically asking, who are you in this society. I've come to the conclusion that i just don't care, all i care is that i'm healthy, i'm happy and a good person, that i have enough income to cover my expenses and to reward myself from time to time, there's many people out there that have major titles or fame, but aren't truly happy, no thanks, rather live an ordinary life and be rich in my heart and soul, at the end that is what people remember you for, so live life according to your terms, at your own pace, and just be happy my friends, that is the biggest goal in this life, if you have achieved that, you already have everything, good luck, lots of love.
😊😊
Well said
@@Devil-by5lt Thank you 😁 sending you love.
This video reminds me of a quote from the Buddha himself..."Those who are aware do not die. The ignorant are as if dead already." The famous Vietnamese poet, Thich Nhat Hanh, also has some simple advice as he says, "Slow down to go faster."
@goggles789 I just want to chime in and say that Buddha is a title meaning "awakened one." In a sense, we are all Buddha.
“Some think it’s holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it’s letting go” ☀️ - The Law of Surrender
Beautiful ❤
Never heard of this, but sounds about right. There’s a great line, I think in the Dao De Jing, to the effect that the fool learns something nee every day, while the sage forgets something everyday. Probably butchered it though
Did this this year and it's made a huge difference to my world
Depends on what your holding on to. Sometimes it's stupid to hold onto something that's no good.
Generic
When I was young I chased money and success. My mind was never my own and was never in the present moment. It was always thinking ahead. Like when you eat a meal and you're halfway through it and you realise you have not even noticed what you are eating.
I feel this same way. Reflecting on so much conditioning. Been asking... who am I ?
I realized that and now I eat more slowly and savor the taste.
I was also always busy, busy, busy. My whole day was so full of activities as a mum. And when my kids were in bed I wanted to do as much as possible before going to bed.
This is all in the past:
I have learned to put myself first and not wait till the evening to maybe have time for myself. I do less during the day. I have a schedule. I think if it is important for me. I no longer do much after my kids are in bed. Except saying prayers or singing bhajans, read a book or anything that is relaxing for the mind.
The first start of this journey started with the question Who am I?
When you have a goal for your life and know why you are living your life, you do not find it important to do a lot of things during your day.
Most of the things I did in the past were because of others. Wake up you live your life. You do not have to impress anyone.
You have to grow your soul. You have to become close to God. Much love. xx
Beuatifully stated Irma. Thank you so much for sharing this :)
Amen
The LORD reigns; let the peoples tremble! He sits enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake! 2 The LORD is great in Zion; he is exalted over all the peoples. 3 Let them praise your great and awesome name! Holy is he! 4 The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. 5 Exalt the LORD our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he! 6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also was among those who called upon his name. They called to the LORD, and he answered them. 7 In the pillar of the cloud he spoke to them; they kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them. 8 O LORD our God, you answered them; you were a forgiving God to them, but an avenger of their wrongdoings. 9 Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the LORD our God is holy! (Psalm 99:1-9 ESV)
Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.
Praise Jesus, YAHWEH, The Almighty God's Precious and Holy Name. Hallelujah Praise be to LORD Jesus. Amen and Amen.
I have no problem being still, I like being alone with myself. My problem is, I am out of balance with too much stillness. I enjoy being out in nature with my animals the most. I love to do needlework and yoga and honestly just happily spend a lot of time sitting If it weren’t for the time I waste on RUclips I would feel like I was doing ok. Society would call me lazy but then, Society as whole has got it all wrong. We are pretty much conditioned from the beginning that its not ok to just “BE”
Wonderful :)
Really like this response Kelly.. ! Totally agree 👍
Society has got it wrong and hence they are now facing all problems and illnesses.
Thank you Kelly you spoke my language ❤
@Silver Halo yes!
Algorithms: ur not productive enough
Monk: ur too productive
Me: fuck...
algorithms a scammmm
People: you're too lazy
I feel this in my soul.
@@goldensilence5841 so fuckin true ppl be like “bro just work hard enough to give yourself a stress free life” like i dono if it works that way 100%
Forget algorithms, and specially forget what people say, people also tell me that all the time... just do what you all love to do, whenever you feel like doing it, it's your life, live it the way it makes you happy.
Being a practicing Buddhist and a lay person it used to be difficult sometimes to find that stillness. I've made choices to change my life to achieve a balance. Thank you for this reminder 🙏
❤❤❤🙏
While it’s not something everyone can do, I’ve taken on most of the eight precepts as my normal practice. Cutting out entertainment opens up a lot of time for meditation, sutta study, reading dhamma books, and stillness. Not always easy, but transformative, especially in the good of’ USA.
Personally, I don't think I need a lot of 'stuff' to be content. I feel happy when I put a smile on someone's face, give them just a little love and value, make them feel they exist. I create little money which gets me going. I see human beings as human beings and not as titles and status. I did chase material in the past. It made me happy for a short time. It's not permanent. "Being" is permanent. This place, the world is a journey. Things, people, places, everything changes. Why attaching so much with it? Yes, writing on my journal makes me happy. Thank you Nick my friend! You are so beautiful!
That is so wonderful to hear. It's very beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing :-)
I think this is the key points of these philosophy schools whether its stoicism, buddhism, taoism. The idea pf being content with yourself directly has an effect on how you treat people or how you bring value to them. If you're always grumpy about work, money, fame even many religious people these days especially in my country you're bringing negativity to the lives of people. This is why I love buddhism so much, good deeds (to yourself and others) come first, being right or wrong is only secondary we can't avoid being wrong or making a mistake
“The present moment is all you ever have” - Eckhart Tolle. Enjoy the journey to your goals because the end destination is fleeting/temporary. The ride however is forever !!
Was about to shoot 4 music videos & this popped in my feed -- now i'm spending the next few days to meditate on what I want & where i'm going.
Beautiful 😊😊😊
When I was a teenager, I realized that no one cared if they were working toward the end of the human species, so I decided not to help the human species work toward its own end.
😁
If you want to climb the ladder of success first make sure your ladder is up against the right wall:)
Thank you.
most people don't climb a wall their success is made on crushing others. It all starts from a group of people who gave themselves the right to print currency at will (floating currency system) which has the consequence to control the lives of others. This is the biggest crime ever commited in the history of humanity, the sentence should be commensurate to the crime.
That's the point i'm preaching every day: if we as humanity focus on the wrong goals, we never'll be able to reach the right ones!
1) Get to know yourself and your values.
2) Understand your intentions behind your goals and keep them as true to your values as possible.
3) Then take action.
There is no action for one who knows Self
Thank you for this reminder - Stillness is often looked on as "laziness" and productivity praised as an "achievement". I took 2 years off of Uni because it was killing me, and now I have a much clearer vision for my life (which doesn't include Uni!). Sometimes you get set on a path and you don't even remember why you're there. Taking time to slow down and reflect on your own values and priorities in the bigger picture is so important! Thank you again
You're welcome. Thank you so much
Success isn't just attention or fame or money. It's about being around good family, good people and being happy.
I’m old school so to speak but one great thing about technology is connecting with pure humans from peaceful places on this earth. I live in a big city and I love the scenery etc but my ultimate goal is to have the peaceful tranquility inside me the calming existence on the inside to feel the wholeness in order to fill the gaps of desire with a healthy core. Thank for spreading your wisdom that most don’t get from being too busy distracted by the fast life.
Awww thank you so much Matt 😊 hope you're doing well.
"my ultimate goal is to have the peaceful tranquility inside me"
I wonder if you see how the goal is preventing the restfulness from happening though.. :D
I am very diligent about the exposure of my senses.I limit my screen time to talks like these for a very specific time each day .I meditate and pray at sunrise and sunset so that my very busy corporate job is punctuated by these peaceful states.Thanks again for these gems Ven Nick🙏
That's great. Keep up the great work. Its very important to have that balance especially being in the corporate world 😊
I would say that part of the issue is if the focus is too much on oneself instead of others, then it becomes a problem. And also, there truly is a need for stillness and contemplation in our society that is not valued. Thank you for this important message . . .
Yes the buddha taught "middle way." It's important to have balance.
I have always focused completely on others and had lost my way. Let's preach about the middle way
I am 37 and have no more materialistic expectations from this world. I still find working hard keeps me going but I know where to draw the line. This has led me to appreciate the smallest things. I live in a metro city for work and when I go back to my birth place, I find it to be the best place to travel for vacation.
😊😊
We have to work to live so unfortunately being busy can’t always be avoided. I don’t like working and it is so hectic and stressful but no choice. I try to be still as much as possible after work but also stressed and exhausted. Such is life. Thank you for your kind words. It is always inspiring and hopeful to listen to your videos. Thank you ❤️
Thank you cathy 😊😊
You deserve better than that. I am so sorry. You shouldn't be forced to do menial jobs just to afford food and shelter.
You can always try to find another job, something less stressful. These are all choices we make in life.
Wonderful video Ven. Nick. For decades, I see people loading up on activities for themselves & even their children. They’re constantly in a “full throttle” mode. I’m not sure if it’s a competitive thing or something else. I see it as a very unhealthy way to go about things. I’m a firm believer in slowing down, enjoy the journey. That way we don’t miss seeing beautiful things. Blessings always 🙏🏻❤️
Thank you so much Valerie. Yes we definitely need the balance 😊😊
I agree. The times I stop and remain "still" I feel like I'm allowing the idea/plan to simmer in my mind. Like I'm permitting my mind to digest the circumstance and once it's ready it directs me into action. The antidote to"busyness" is living life as an art.
Stillness and observing is the best way of life and success.
I am learning that through meditation
Wonderful 😊😊
But it won't cure cancer or AIDS. Won't give water to those who need it. Won't build housing. Won't make modern medical breakthroughs. The Taghagata said - MODERATION, not just sit and observe.
@@fishzima *But he seems comfortable with his head up his ass in meditation.*
Thank you for the positive reminder. My late grandmother would always say, "Take time to smell the roses."
Spent twenty years running toward some goal.
Only recently did I realize that the only destination that I can be sure of is the end of this human experience.
It is so hard to slow down.
It is like speaking a foreign language...
The only enemy to ever exist, is the internal one. Ego.
@Stephen Dickens Thank you for the thoughts. In my perspective, it is all ego. Anything/everything that comes after the thought "I/it exist(s)", is ego.
Enjoy your journey. It might end in 5 minutes. I don't know.
Lol. U two notice how u were destined to debate instead of listen. I noticed when I was laughing at the know it all that I am the unjust judger. My bad. I hope u have a bored day. :)
@Stephen Dickens I am panicking knowing my death is inevitable.
I struggle a lot trying to balance being productive but also being present and taking care of myself. it's hard to know the difference between the two. I always wonder if I'm just making excuses and being lazy. The thing is, sometimes we get obsessed with the idea of being productive because we need to work extra hard in order to be able to live a safer life. When you live in a toxic or dangerous place not being productive means you're not gonna get out of there any time soon. I feel anxious when I think it will take longer for me to leave where I live because I'm not working hard enough :(
I don't know why, but 10 seconds into this video, this monk's sincere compassion has moved me to tears.
❤️❤️
I struggle with this so much, the need to be productive it’s been so toxic for me and my health. I’ve slowly started to work on just being still and in the moment. Thank you for this video and something I will reflect on when i am still 😊
Wonderful ashley. Continue to do the work and please keep us updated on your progress :-)
Iroh, from Avatar: The Last Airbender, asked his nephew, "And then what?! You never think these things through. It's time to start asking yourself the big questions: who are you? and what do you want?" I don't like Iroh as much as other people (he's a flat character and the old-man / sage archetype in literature), but I have thought about that question "And then what?"
In the Rankin and Bass animated The Return of the King, Samwise reflects on power, status, and control as he battles the dominance of the ring. He rejects the ring and reflects, saying, "One small garden of a free gardener is all my needs and due. My own two hands to use." I reflect on that metaphor of a small garden with the plans I am cultivating and the actions I take.
This video was nice. Thank you for taking time to speak with people through social media.
Those are beautiful examples Francis. I love it. Thank you so much for sharing :-)
Iroh? A flat character? I beg to differ
@@spencervance8484 Iroh carried that whole show, turning it from a superficial kids' cartoon into a compelling story that I even enjoyed re-watching as an adult. The wisdom surprised me sometimes, and that "leaves from the vine" mini episode really hit home...
@@EctoMorpheus i know! He was amazing! And i agree leaves from the vine...im not crying. Your crying.
The timing is so right. I needed to hear this. Thank you so much ❤️
Oh wonderful! I'm glad it showed up at the right time :)
Yes, I'm happy and Grateful. 😊
Great message.
Make sure sure your destination is worthwhile to you before you even set down the path.
Too often in life, I have found myself paddling like mad and making sacrifices to get through a major project only to get near the end and be about to cross the finish line when I reflect back on everything and ask myself "was this even worth it?" and then clearly answer "no, not at all."
I'm getting better, but I could still do a better job of just asking that question upfront, before I set off on the journey.
✌️
I often pour so much energy into tasks that I think will confirm the story I have in my mind about who I am or who I need to be. Thanks for this reflection which reminded me that often those stories are fictions and matter very little to my inner peace and calm. May you all be happy, at peace, and free from the suffering our own minds create!
I'm completely agree ... this is a great teaching for life better and without imposed stress ... thank you Nik have a bless life
Thank you so much 😊
Nothing like a wake-up call to remind yourself of your purpose and intention of incarnation into this world. Thank You, I needed this reminder
Excellent reminder for many ! At any given moment your health can be taken from you and all your money and work and status is worthless. I experienced this. Peace of mind and health are my priority.
I agre,i learn this truth when working in a hospital and seeing people of all ages die.this world is not our permanent home.that tells me the reason highly spiritual people says,die before you die.🙂
:)
Beautiful. thank you for sharing Alex :)
Great reminder! Impermanence is one of the cornerstones of Buddha’s teachings. Today could be the last day here on earth. We have no idea when life is over. But we do know that life is short and we would be better off using the little time we have left preparing for the future, beyond this life. The irony is that this kind of predicament can create a different kind of urgency than what a busy lifestyle is. If we don’t observe ourselves properly we can end up on a very busy spiritual path instead of a worldly one. Meditation according to sound instructions is they key to cut through such obstacles along the path. Remember, a key quality of an enlightened mind is peace. Let your mind rest. In that state you may find what a blessing impermanence actually is! We learn to accept it. We learn to be it. We are an expression of impermanence. That’s what we are. Nothing to hold on to at all.
It amazes me how loud this message has been lately for me. For a while, I've felt that I messed up "too much." I "wasn't doing enough." OMG I watched a series and relaxed instead of writing another 20 hours. (writing is one of my favorite things to do, and I'm happy doing it. But it is SO demanding, and it takes A LOT of energy.) But Spirit has been telling me "you're doing SO MUCH more than you realize You're doing more than enough. Slow down." Yesterday, I just went to my job, and I was super hyper and dizzy, and exhausted. I grounded when I got home, and then fell asleep. Now I KNOW how important slowing down is.
When you do too much, you accomplish nothing.
I agree. The when you actually get productivity culture sometimes doesn't realize that they already have everything they want and need. Thank you for sharing.
It's a pleasure. Thank you my friend ☺️
Thank you brother, even as a Muslim, I appreciate your videos so much. How uncanny it is, that I was reading the Quran, chapter 81, and I came to the words, "So where, really, are you going?". Listening to you has helped me further.
The idea that there is more to life than productivity/accumulation is a pretty central teaching in most religions. The little I know of Islam it sounds like a beautiful tradition that is gravely misunderstood in the West, especially the USA. Your fundamentalists may be more violent than those of the Christian faith, but they are no less a minority than the people who bomb commit acts of violence in Jesus’ name.
Got a thought for you ,
Even as a Muslim I appreciate your videos .
The mind weaves its own story
Thank you kindly, Nick
People do many things seeking happiness. But no one who is happy seeks things to do.
Slow down, you move to fast, you got to make the morning last, 🎶 🎵 look at the fun of feeling groovy, 🎼
sadhu sadhu. well said :)
There's very few human beings but an abundance of human doings.
"I want to be a human being, not a human doing, couldn't keep that pace up if I tried" Scatman John.
"He whose life has a why can bear almost any how." - Friedrich Nietzsche
I needed to hear your perspective. Thank you.
😊😊
My mom is an extremely productive person, but her goals are always very selfless and to serve others. Btw I love how non-judgmental and kindhearted this man is!
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much
Sir, I believe that thank you is a very little word for what you are doing.
I am of the age 25..I believe that If every human apply the teachings of GAUTAM BUDDHA in their respective lives..then there will be no hatred..I am practicing all what you say at my home and living a peaceful live..Keep sharing sir 🌻🌈👍
That is so wonderful to hear. Thank you so much and continue to diligently to the work :-)
@@nickkeomahavong01 Your welcome sir🤗
Humanity is advancing in a direction that is very unknown very fast. Here is one that perceives and thinks before acting. Knowledge like this is rare and he shares it for all freely. Heed these words always as it could help most through their lives in these most strange times.
*The Book of Revelation will show you where we are going future-wise.*
Sometimes I remind myself the only thing I really need to do is eat, drink water, breathe and sleep. If I make it to tomorrow, I succeeded at being human.
😊😊
Superb post!
I love this
That's all you actually need to survive...
U also need to reproduce
Thank you for a much needed reminder. Busyness is sometimes referred to as a form of laziness within Buddhist teachings. Which, in a way, shows us how far we are from using our time in this world properly. But, thanks to impermanence and the placid nature of mind we can change that approach to life in an instant, if we want to. It may seem to be in contradiction and conflict with social norms but in actual fact when we are peaceful and have a healthy mind we will be able to contribute positively much more in the world. What needs to happen is that we need to take control over our minds and lives instead of being ruled by habits and unrealistic expectations. There is no need for blame but all we need to do is to make a shift in our mindset. A non-violent approach of shifting over. A mind at rest can be a most “productive” mind of all. At the end, there’s no opposition between an active or restful mind. It is all pervasive lucid awareness. But right now, we probably need to find our own restful nature, more than ever!
:-)
Dear Mr. Keomahavong. All you are saying is in my heart for a very long time. I guess my parents taught me to value life over riches. But still it's challenging to find the right balance. I guess it has to do with the way we live our life. We are disconnected from what our biology is made for. For millions of years mankind lived close to nature. And now we live in cities which are always awake.
I found for myself good practice is to reconnect to our inner nature. It's the simple things that bring balance to our lives. Wake up with the sunrise. Go to bed with the sunset. Be awake and physical active at day time and calm down in the evening. Get things done during daytime. Don't pull an all-nighter. Eat healthy food. Move your body and exercise - it's made for it. Enjoy the little things - the taste of coffee, the refelctions in water, sun beams in your eyes, the smile of a friend, the wind in your hair and so on. Do not overrate negative thoughts - treat them as warnings and not as guides. Focus on positive thoughts. See other people as if they were youself. If they are angry with you, they don't know what drives you, or they have had a bad day, or they see something in you that has nothing to do with you. Treat them the way you treat yourself - always nice and forgiving. A good live is not about running for survival. It's about balance, like the tides of the ocean.
Btw. most of that is backed up by neurobiology. Especially the points about light. You can find podcasts from a scientist who is talking about this topic here on youtube. His name is Andrew Huberman. I can really recommend listening to this.
America's workaholic culture is slowly killing us through stress. We convince ourselves to work so hard for a paycheck we won't even get to enjoy because we have no time. Half the time, we don't think about a specific goal. And if we do, we don't reflect on what the result was and if it was worth it.
It's called modern slavery, cunning tricks to keep naive people under control.
How many old men I've seen retire. Only to die within a year or two. Worked hard ( too hard ) their whole lives.
I think many may be doing it out of necessity and that's sad. But I cant understand people who do it voluntarily, unless working in an occupation where other peoples lives depend on you. Some work is fine and to be expected, but working so much you almost never get to rest out and enjoy life, cant possibly be worth it if you can meet your basic needs without. Beyond that what you can buy for money is just an extra bonus that may easily be outweighed by the downsides of working too much, you cant pay to have the downsides of constant overwork/stress and no free-time disappear
@@zakosist yes i agree. The gist of what I'm getting at, is that we convince ourselves of extras that just complicate our lives and add unnecessary suffering. Of course we have to work because thats the nature of society and life especially if there are those that depend on us financially, spiritually, etc. Do what you have to but not at the cost of your own health and well being or else the work will be all for nothing.
@@waluigi43 after a recent situation of working too hard for a paycheck I'll never get to enjoy because I'm neber home, i thought to myself "yo who thought of 40 hour work weeks? Shits lowkey wack".
Dear Nick: These "productivity" people are an opportunity for you and your fellow monks who have the heart and the knack to help. But they have to come to you first. Best of luck and thank you for doing this.
Thank you so much James :-) hope you're doing well
The title at first gave me a little bit of a bad impression but once I gave the video a chance the clarification removed my skepticism. I remember watching a few psychologists who say the same as what you're saying in this video in a different way. Even the hyper productive business man will become MORE productive if he takes the occasional vacation.
If you pour more water into your cup it'll flow faster when you go to water your crops.
It would seem that all of our societal conditioning has been based on productivity. But It appears that the truth of finding true happiness is the UNLEARNING of that conditioning. And that is the work.
THANK YOU for the video!
Yes that is also considered the spiritual path :-)
Good message. People often distract themselves with the hustle, put too much meaning in the end-goal and think that achieving it will magically make them happy. Instead, it often leaves them empty, until they either take time for reflection or decide to occupy their mind with different hustle. Contentment can't be found anywhere out there, gotta look inside for that.
Thank you for your help and wisdom. It is much needed during these times. 🙏
You're welcome. Thank you amelia :)
I just realized while listening to this that I have been pursuing attention in a fruitless way for many years. Thank you.
:-)
Why is it so important to have goals? I have no destination. I have no path. No right or wrong. Whatever happens, happens.
Goals are helpful with clarity 😊
At the end of the day,is your mind at peace with whatever happens.if we can be at peace,then goals are just pointers to the destination that we have arrive.
Perhaps I misunderstand your statement "Whatever happens, happens," but that sounds a little more like Nihilist apathy than a Buddhist detachment.
I'd like to say to you, yes, generally fine, especially if it fine for you! So, not criticizing, just like to add that - in a way - this might be (called) a point of view of a person in a materially wealthy situation. I mean, it doesn't come from nowhere that 'we' (human beings) have the habit to have goals. If you are in a situation where you have to struggle, which isn't comfortable or where it's a matter of survival, you will probably have goals (very simple ones...warmth... food... shelter..) and try your best to achieve them. The problem is maybe that we have the tendency (also out of fear and other reasons) to keep struggling when we already have what we basically need.
Just wanted to say this, a bit of support and thumbs up for goals. Happy day to you and everyone around!
@@helloalanframe goal less ness for the sake of not having goals is in a way an attachment to goals. You can have goals but do it for the right reasons, like compassion.
I've learned the harder you work the more you gain to lose.. If your working for the money..I would stop. Find something you love to do and do that. Forget about the money & what ppl say or may think of you. You will find someone that loves doing what your doing. I heard a quote that i repeat often. "The most dangerous person in the world is one that could care less of what ppl think of them, once you free yourself and your mind your possibilities are endless"
😊😊
I love this!! I’ve found that my inner peace is so important in shaping the future I want alongside making my dreams come true. Feels like I almost lost myself at one point trying to follow everyone else’s road when mine was the most beneficial one for me
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you Clinton. I'm glad you were able to find your balance.
How did you find your own destination? All the best.
Hi Nick through listening to your talks l have leaned to rest my mind and body when working outside in my garden. I have done
a lot of work the last week and in my mind l watch your students in the garden working so calmly and I’m try to follow their way and not
make it a chore and hard work. Thank you Sheila
That is beautiful Shiela. Wonderful.You hit it on the head. Well done :)
Im the person who dont fit in in the "hustle attitude" its depressing. With that said i don't even know why its depressing for me. At first i thought im the problem. Maybe its the fact that after all the hustles in life i realized i deserve everything necessary stuff without the the never ending hustles.
i personally just want to exist in peace the place you are sitting looks really peaceful thats what i want not easy to get these days tho
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much. Yes it's beautiful here
"Think for an hour and you can save years of your life" - unknown
Advice I really need to listen to and follow a lot more.
😊😊😊
I’m just trying to hustle now so I can remove the things that burden me later. I feel that wanting more cannot bring happiness, but rather eliminating the bad can clear the way to realizing an active state of happiness. Of course, you can find happiness within the struggle, but the entire point of the struggle is an attempt, whether fruitful or not, to eliminate it. That is our condition.
For me,balanced or unbalanced is depend on our practice.If we really follow teaching of the Buddha's Dhamma,the way we are going is the right direction.
😊😊
Imagine being a monk in thailand ...respect 🇮🇳🕉🇹🇭
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you
Being a monk in general is basically incredible, but it takes much to discard all the toughts and become one, in my opinion
In our society there's so much stigma for people working or studying "not enough", and as Nick said, The Hustle lifestyle just takes so much from us, that we struggle to speak, it's terrifying
I also appreciate Nick's values in life - happiness, for yourself and your peers, and i feel it more and more everyday that's it's becoming less common, people crave success
Eh, it's considered to be the easy way for some, because you don't need to make a living, and was used to avoid political persecution, but very hard for others. You just have to be dilligent, wake early, go bindhabatr, say prayers, and not eat dinner.
But to really be devoted to and to embody the teachings of the buddha is a different story altogether. Namaskar luang phee krub.
Very wise and clearly explained, thanks Nick!
Thank you so much Alawi :)
In my personal point of view, I found that the journey is the most important part of life. We forget about this once people think they are so-called successful. They aren't happy, because they think they made it and it isn't what they expected it to feel like. We get the car we wanted, we get the money, the girl we wanted, we get whatever, but it was the journey that was and still is the most important part of this life. The journey only ends when you are dead, and even then, there is still a happening after we are gone. We leave our mark as did our ancestors before us. And future generations get to look back and see what kind of journey we lead. This to me is one of the most beautiful things about life.
Very true, I always incorporate elements of satsang and wu wei into my daily life, great video Nick!
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you
I am so happy i find your channel! your questions i take to me and i will reflect my self....
Thanks very much!🙏 I love to listen your wise words, they are like keys to open doors....
Awww that's so wonderful. Welcome and i'm glad you can integrate some of these things into your life :)
Thank you, Venerable Nick. It is ironic. The ad I saw before your video came on, a young, handsome Asian man was talking about how we let our past dictate our future. This prevents us from achieving our goals because our brain is hardwired to above all keep us safe. Our brain learns from past negative experiences how to do that, and THAT’S what our will is going to follow, with no regard for our future and our goals. His prescription for this is a webinar that will teach us to remap our past, to one which will be congruent with our goals. Very smart, I thought. But what would Venerable Nick’s prescription be, I asked myself? Let go of the past; let go of the future, instead engage the present moment in the deepest way. Difficult to accomplish? Sure. More difficult than reprogramming the mind’s understanding of its past? I’m not so sure. But to do that much mental effort for the sake of striving after goals that can’t deliver happiness? I like your “program” better.😊
Oh wow. that's very interesting.haha
I think you have to put in work for a period of time to get your money right, then you can wholeheartedly give yourself proper attention. But I agree, you should really consider if your aim is leading to a place which is more conducive to peace or are you just blowing up your ego which is ultimately a distraction from doing the hard internal Labor of "untying your knots".
:)
Much appreciation for taking the time to make this video. Stay safe be well. !
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much my friend.
@@nickkeomahavong01 i hate to type more and be a bother. But this really helped me when i was having a mini panic attack during work, work i really am not happy about. Work i just do for money and health benefits has caused me more bad than good. More stress and less activity that can be focused on what i really want, which is to help other humans in anyway i can. I use to be active in possitive things. Helping mentally challenged kids, teaching people basic cooking skills and stuff like that. Now i sit infront of a laptop from home with more stress to meet a quota that means nothing to me other than if i dont i can lose my job.
Sorry to ramble, but this and other such videos you talk in have really put that flame under me to change something . Thank you isn't enough. If i could express it more i would.
A monk or not, this advice is genuinely so important to be heard. Thank you.
Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much
Ven. Nick, I think as per Lord Buddha, we have to do whatever we are doing, be it work, relationship or anything mindfully. Also try to be in the present moment and not in the past or future. Past is gone and future has not come yet. No point thinking of any of those two. Being happy in the present moment is the key. Am I right?
Yes its important to be in the present moment 😊😊
Well Said 🤗
Most people think they will eventually find happiness. Not true. You make the decision to to be happy right now. Write down every single thing you are grateful for and it will leave you feeling great!
true, that is truth.
True dat😎
Sawadee Krup Khun Keomahavong, If you ever come down the mountain and visit Chiangmai I'd love to invite you for tea and have a chat.
Keep up the great work,
Ian (a Dhamma friend in Chiangmai)
Sadhu sadhu ian 😊😊
I think your videos are some of the most practical Buddhist advice I've come across. Not easy all the time, but practical. I appreciate your therapist experience being used to create a secular bridge for people who are less familiar with Buddhism to really understand how to use it in their own lives too, because honestly it might sound woo woo at first to people who haven't learned about it yet. You don't have to believe in reincarnation to get something out of these videos.
Wonderful. Thank you so much for your feedback. I appreciate it :-)
Thank you! On this journey for a year now & this is everything!! So much more peace & clarity.
Wish I could sit in the place you are in this video!!🧡🧡
sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂and anytime you are in thailand, you are welcome to visit :)
@@nickkeomahavong01 you are a blessing my friend... I pray this life affords it someday!!