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Start for freeEmbracing a Process-Oriented Approach to Life
In our quest for success and fulfillment, it's easy to become fixated on outcomes. Whether it's aspiring for a higher salary, a fit body, or social approval, our goals often hinge on external validations. However, Arman shares a powerful reminder that true self-worth and contentment lie not in the outcomes but in embracing the process itself.
The Pitfalls of Outcome-Oriented Actions
When we anchor our actions to external outcomes, we inadvertently outsource our self-esteem and happiness to factors beyond our control. For instance, exercising solely to attract a partner places our self-worth in the hands of someone else's perceptions and decisions, a precarious foundation for happiness. This approach not only sets us up for disappointment but also diverts us from appreciating the intrinsic value of our actions.
The Power Within: Control Over Actions and Judgments
Drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy, particularly the teachings of Epictetus, Arman underscores the significance of focusing on what we can control: our actions and judgments. Stoicism, often misunderstood as a doctrine for the emotionally detached, is fundamentally about cultivating inner strength, ethical living, and resilience in the face of life's unpredictabilities. It teaches us to distinguish between what is within our power and what isn't, urging us to invest our energies in the former.
Key Stoic Insights:
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Control and Freedom: Understanding that true freedom comes from controlling our reactions and actions, not external circumstances.
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Inner Peace: Recognizing that when we align our focus with what's within our control, we immunize ourselves against external turmoil and dissatisfaction.
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Self-Worth: Finding value and pride in our own efforts and choices, rather than the validation or approval of others.
Practical Applications in Everyday Life
Arman shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the transformative power of a process-oriented mindset. From freelancing endeavors to fitness goals, he highlights how focusing on the input — the effort, the dedication, the craft — rather than the output not only fosters resilience but also enriches our sense of self-worth. Even when outcomes don't align with our expectations, the satisfaction derived from the process itself remains untouched.
Embracing the Journey
Embodying a process-oriented approach to life encourages us to find joy and fulfillment in the act of doing, irrespective of the end result. It's about showing up, putting in the work, and taking pride in our actions. By doing so, we cultivate a robust sense of self-esteem that is anchored in something far more reliable than external accolades or achievements: our own character and effort.
Conclusion
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remind ourselves of the wisdom in focusing on what we can control. By embracing a process-oriented approach, we not only enhance our resilience and self-worth but also open ourselves to a more fulfilling and contented life. Arman's reflections serve as a timely reminder that in the pursuit of happiness, the journey is just as important, if not more so, than the destination.
Remember, it's not about the accolades or the external validations, but the integrity, effort, and intention we bring to our daily endeavors. Let's choose to focus on the process, for that is where true growth and satisfaction lie.
