For success in any field, one should have will power. The will power can be achieved by adopting a positive attitude towards life rather than giving in to despair. We have to remain calm, should not get unnecessarily angry under any circumstances and should speak politely with persons all the time.
But the basic question arises. What is will power?
It is the power to control one’s emotions. It is the motivation which energizes us to do what we want and to desist from not doing unwanted things. It is the force within us to get rid of all bad forces. It is well to remember at this juncture what Swami Vivekananda, the great Indian saint, had to say: “Stand up, be bold and strong. Know that you are the creator of your own destiny. All the strength you need is with in you.”
Sometimes we may be aware of our mistakes but may not be able to stop them because of lack of will power. Spiritual depression and periods of spiritual dryness are quite natural. But we should not give hope but should assert ourselves and listen to the call of our inner conscience.
A question quite often asked is - whether will power can be increased? The answer is: Yes! Of course, will power can be increased. Our past failures should not dishearten us. There should be a determined effort on our part. Remember it is never too late to become good and strong. We should have self confidence in ourselves.
Obstacles
In cultivation of will power there are two fundamental obstacles: Regret about the past mistakes and too much worry about the future.
We should forget our past mistakes and also should not be too much worried about the future. Remember- yesterday is dead; tomorrow is unborn; so make today happy. We can develop will power; but should remember that it can not be achieved overnight. One should have patience and continuously strive hard to achieve success.
A famous poet has once said:
“Let the dead past bury its dead!
Act, act, in the living present,
Trust no future, however pleasant”
We must learn to live in the present. The present can be properly used only if stop brooding over the past.
Daily Practice
It is only through daily practice one can sustain good thoughts and actions so that will power is generated within. A very simple technique is: Close the eyes. Think of any thing that is pleasant; say a lovely sunset, the infinite blue sky or a scintillating waterfall or anything like that. Imagine your body floating like a straw in a in a vast ocean of spirit. Feel that the whole world is pulsating and vibrating through you. Then open your eyes.
You will experience immense peace of mind, strength and vigor.
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