Soulful Sundays: Equanimity

equanimity: (noun) evenness of mind and spirit, especially in the face of adversity; steadiness; balance.

Sun Tzu, perhaps the most studied military strategist in history, is famous for his doctrine of preparedness in the face of adversity. His seminal work, The Art of War, reminds us “not to rely on the enemy’s failure to act, but on our readiness to withstand; not on the chance of his retreat, but on the fact that we have made our position unassailable.”

According to Sun Tzu, “Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.” Pause on that line. Ask yourself, “Which kind am I?” Have you been so focused on the fight that you have neglected the training? Have you forgotten that the only variable truly in your control is your own preparation—your own equanimity?

“In the midst of chaos, there is opportunity.” If we can keep our heads level and our vision clear, openings appear where others only see obstacles. No matter how dire the circumstances, there is always a way forward. Think of the great men and women who came before us. Those who persevered did so not by panicking or grasping at shortcuts, but by fixing their hearts on noble goals and working tirelessly toward them.

Hours become days, days become months, and months become years. The best time to begin preparing was years ago. The second best time is today. There are an infinite number of ways to grow. If you are feeling weak, train your body. If you are feeling lonely, train your generosity. If you are feeling bored, train your imagination. If you are feeling anxious or depressed, train your gratitude.

Every day we face a choice between two attitudes: reactivity or proactivity. Reactivity leads to unpleasant surprises, blame, and victimhood. Proactivity opens a toolbox filled with hard work, virtues, and the foundation of our dreams. Choose wisely.