Expanding your self-interest

Please pause an instant and contemplate the meaning of this statement. Expanding your self-interest is not at all about finding new self-interests. It is purely a selfless task examining the interest of others and viewing them as our own. Accordingly, only by genuinely trying to touch on the need and wants of others, we can see the other point of view which is just as worthy of consideration. In the end, stress is minimized as we expand the horizon of our thoughts through self-education of others' needs. Whilst this is viewed by some as common sense or wisdom, with others it does not come naturally.

“Expanding Self-Interest” is complicated by the fact that it is often difficult to focus on long term goals when there are short term obstacles or for that matter gains.

“Expanding Self-Interest” is often difficult as it is hard to see the big picture when we cannot view ourselves as we truly are, small role player in our universe. Therefore, we need to overcome our competitive and animal instinct of survival as individuals. We are not alone in the world nor can we live as such. Knowing this is itself a relief.

In practice, each task becomes a lifestyle issue, a way to live meditatively.

Let us as an example use the following analogies, by allowing a person in front of us to get ahead, we allow ourselves progress or through endorsing the success of others, we enable success to reach us or by becoming aware of global environmental issues, we live healthier locally. Just as the overall health of the body relies on every individual part functioning well and happily, so too does the health and happiness of a family, workplace, or community rely on an open-hearted contribution of each for the well being of the other.

Good luck and keep practicing.

If you have any queries or you would like to book into a personal- or group-based meditation and lifestyle stress management program, please contact Dr. Robert Kaldawi directly on 0412399876 or write to us through the contact page.