Approaching Christmas, the office is quieter; I delight in having chit-chats with individual colleagues about trivial matters. I had thought that less work at the office made one feel good. At least that’s what I thought. I opted for a position with less pay rather than a senior executive. After all, work-life balance and well-being are so important that I have recently embraced them.
This mentality has changed in 2024. The economy is deteriorating fast, and everything can change without warnings.
A sixty-year-old man is not content even though his work contract has been renewed. His boss assigned many tasks to a younger colleague, and now he has more free time at work. Why does he not feel happy? With the renewed contract, his work should be stable enough for years. But human beings are strange animals. Our confidence grows when completing important and meaningful tasks that make us happy. Somehow, ego dictates how we feel.
I recalled there were times I felt stupid doing the trivial filing work. I asked myself, “What am I doing here?” I had years of high-level training, and then I did the simplest work ever.” I can relate to his feeling. I decided to celebrate moments when I finished tough work and events.
Yesterday, I struggled with hitting the ball through the first gate. That’s essential to partner with your teammates when playing gate ball. Eventually my last strike got me through the first gate. It also got me through the second gate. I defeated the rival team and helped my team win a few more scores.
I am still learning the mentality of sportsmanship. Savour the moment of championship and tell myself not to give up. Never too late. I may have to wait till good things happen to me.
Do not belittle yourself. Buddhists in the temple sweep the floors and dust every corner every day. These routines look easy, but not on cold or hot days. Prolonged hours of trivial work can be a training for having a stronger mind.
experience today 