The Key Question to Stay True to Your Dharma and Boost Your Life

The Key Question to Stay True to Your Dharma and Boost Your Life

The quest for meaning will never stop. In fact, studies show that 57% of Americans wonder, “How can I find more meaning and purpose in my life?” at least monthly, with 21% considering this question daily. This search for meaning is universal, not unique to Americans, highlighting a widespread yearning for a more fulfilling life. Yes, there is one universal question one should consider. Let’s dive into it.

Rooted in the Vedic tradition of India, dharma is often described as your right way of living. Yes, its essence transcends mere duty—dharma is about aligning with our true nature and contributing meaningfully to the world. Imagine dharma as the unique thread that, when woven into the fabric of life, creates harmony and balance. For instance, a teacher feels fulfilled when educating children, an artist when creating beauty, and a doctor when healing others. You get the gist.

Many great thinkers, from Aristotle to Viktor Frankl, are on the same page as the Vedic understanding of dharma. Aristotle spoke of eudaimonia, a state of flourishing achieved through virtuous living, while Frankl emphasized finding meaning as the cornerstone of human existence.

My personal favorite is the Japanese concept of ikigai, or “reason for being,” which aligns with dharma, suggesting that true happiness comes from finding a balance between what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

I think most people believe life must be easy for those who have found their dharma.

But the path to discovering and living your dharma can be fraught with difficulties and uncertainties. It often requires significant introspection, courage, and sometimes, a willingness to go against societal expectations. I have come to learn that it’s a process or a winding road with obstacles and detours. It demands resilience and a willingness to confront one’s fears and doubts. So life can still be hard in dharma land. But at least we know what to do.

I wish more people would consider more than the physical exercises of yoga and dive into the deeper aspects of this Vedic tradition. It helps individuals connect with their true selves, fostering a deeper understanding of their purpose and place in the world. However, the ways of discovering one’s dharma are multiple.

Psychology and philosophy offer insights into this complex journey.

Carl Jung, the renowned psychologist, emphasized the importance of individuation, the process of becoming one’s true self. This journey, much like the quest for dharma, involves confronting and integrating different aspects of the self. Jung noted that this process can be challenging and often involves periods of confusion and struggle.

But to be honest, Carl Jung seems a bit stuck on the self in this journey. The greatest minds in history seem to agree that even when living in alignment with one’s dharma, clarity and fulfillment are not guaranteed. Life is inherently complex and unpredictable, and living authentically does not shield us from difficulties or uncertainties.

Philosopher Søren Kierkegaard is quick to say that there is tension between our desires and the realities of existence. I agree with his premise that the pursuit of a meaningful life is inherently fraught with challenges.

A friend of mine who is a professor frequently reminds me of Martinus, a Danish spiritual thinker. His thoughts are beautiful and also resonate with the idea of dharma, emphasizing the importance of understanding our place in the cosmos and contributing to the greater good. His work aligns with the notion that living in accordance with our true nature brings harmony and purpose.

Is dharma truly a panacea for a fulfilling life?

While it offers a profound sense of purpose, it is not a magic solution that eliminates all struggles. Rather, dharma provides a compass that helps us navigate the complexities of life. It gives us a sense of direction and alignment.

One practical question to help uncover your dharma is: “What activities make me lose track of time and leave me feeling energized?”

Trust me, this question works when you feel lost and do not know what to do but need to do something. This question can guide you toward understanding what truly resonates with your inner self. I write. What would you do?

Dharma is about being true to ourselves and living in harmony with the world around us. It’s a reminder that, no matter how chaotic life gets, there is a path that is uniquely ours to follow. It’s a way to live for your own benefit and others.

While it is not a quick fix (they never work anyway), it provides a meaningful framework to navigate life’s challenges with purpose and authenticity. Dharma is a universal process, not an end in itself, but a guide to living a life of depth and significance.

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