A unique revelation for me came during a meditation in the yoga classroom. It became clear that each person must decide for themselves what their purpose and mission in life will be. The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls logic and reason, takes about 25 years to fully develop. So, for the first 25 years of life, it’s unrealistic to expect someone to fully define their mission. During these years, we’re still developing, learning, and discovering. It’s only in the next chapter that we can start to envision a clearer path forward.
At 56, it would be misguided for me to tell a 23-year-old what they should be striving for. Instead, what I can offer are insights into work that will be relevant throughout life, no matter the stage. One such practice is mastering relaxation and breathing techniques. Becoming a maverick in this area will serve us at every stage, often in ways that are difficult to articulate. It’s better to simply practice—once you do, the benefits will reveal themselves through experience, and you won’t need a description of how it works.
Another important aspect of life, regardless of your stage, is character development and self-awareness. We must learn to recognize when we fall into obsessive thinking or when we get lost in the interior world of our minds, causing the external world to feel distant, even surreal. In these moments, we may miss what's happening around us, consumed by the stimulation of our thoughts and senses. It’s vital to practice techniques that relax the senses, to pause from constant thinking, behaviors, anxieties, and addictions. Simply being quiet for a few minutes, focusing on the breath, and resetting is crucial.
This doesn't mean solving our problems in the moment or forcing solutions. It doesn’t require us to accept or surrender in the traditional sense, as that would only lead us back into the cycle of mental activity and anxiety. Instead, try becoming a detached observer for a moment. It may feel different from anything you've done before, but there’s nothing to lose. It’s an exploration of mind control—learning how to distance yourself from your thoughts and anxieties by focusing on the breath and gradually practicing how to redirect the mind.
It’s important to note that this practice is not about smothering feelings. We will still experience whatever emotions arise in response to life—whether it’s hurt, anger, loneliness, or happiness. The key is to take a deep breath, surrender the judgment, release the narrative, and stop reacting. This takes practice.
We all face a pivotal choice in life: do we prioritize comfort and convenience, or do we embrace some level of physical challenge to keep our bodies adaptable and strong for the long run?
Consider the necessity of experiences like riding the train, climbing stairs, and interacting with others—even if it means dealing with uncomfortable situations or the occasional germ. While living in a completely controlled environment with artificial air and lighting may feel safe, it can also limit our resilience and adaptability.
I’m not advocating for unnecessary suffering, but rather for designing lives that meet our basic needs while allowing room for connection with others. Living simply doesn't equate to deprivation; it’s about recognizing that we don’t need excess—such as five cars or multiple servants—to feel fulfilled.
When starting out, especially without abundant resources, it’s crucial to choose wisely. A balanced approach—prioritizing simplicity over opulence—helps maintain adaptability. Embracing some degree of struggle, particularly physical challenges, can cultivate resilience. We should aim for a lifestyle that includes regular activity, sufficient rest, quality sleep, and a nutritious diet. In doing so, we build strength and well-being that will support us through life’s many challenges.