What exactly is self-discovery? I’ve been thinking about it a lot for the past few days. And I began to question myself – Why I was chasing those external validations? Why I was seeking happiness in fleeting moments, and ignoring the gentle whispers of my heart? I’ve always believed in being governed by society’s laws, the customs, following what ‘they’ are telling me, that would bring me happiness.
But what truly is happiness? Who decides it?
Recently, I made the most important discovery of my career, the most important discovery of my life. The Self-discovery.
Self-Discovery – those two words can conjure up images of mountaintops or long retreats to a yoga ashram (which, don’t get me wrong, can be fantastic experiences). But for most of us, the truth is a little messier.
I believe we all have this inherent goodness within us, just waiting to be unearthed. Maybe it’s a passion for helping others, creativity, or even a wicked sense of humor.
Now, I’m no self-discovery guru, but at least I’m beginning to realise self-discovery isn’t about finding some hidden treasure or becoming a superhero (though that would be cool). It’s more about understanding who you are, what makes you tick, and what makes your heart sing. It’s about truly knowing the good stuff within – the kindness, the creativity, the weirdness that makes you, you. It’s about the goodness within you.
(There was actually an incident that made me realise this, and it of course a long story that I’ll explain to you in some other blog post)
They say negativity is around every corner, which seems true when you deal with things around you. It’s internal struggles like self-doubt and anxiety or external challenges. These negativities can rob us of the peace we yearn for in life. Our lives are busy, and it’s very common to feel busted by work pressures and the complexities of relationships.
Disappointment frequently stems from the weight of societal norms and our own self-imposed standards. When we experience a sense of letdown, it’s typically due to unmet expectations. Such feelings may emerge when we measure our achievements against those of others.
The search for meaning and beauty often leads us to external sources, overshadowing the incredible richness within our own hearts. Each one of us carries unique and wonderful qualities that make us special yet these treasurers often go unnoticed.
The Beauty Of Goodness
There’s a special beauty in the goodness you discover within yourself. It’s like finding a hidden gem. A strength you never knew you possessed. Sharing this goodness with the world, whether through a random act of kindness, a helping hand, or simply a goofy grin, makes the world a brighter place.
Imagine goodness as a source of light that shines from within. When we act with kindness, empathy, and generosity, this light illuminates not just ourselves, but also those around us. And you know what, I assure you this happens, I’ve lived those moments recently.
It’s a beautiful ripple effect, and you’re the pebble that starts it all.
If you’ve watched The Hobbits by J.R.R. Tolkien, remember what Gandalf said?
Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. It is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Simple acts of kindness and love.
Gandalf
And as I’m talking about Self-Discovery and the beauty of goodness, I think I should share these beautiful lines that we posted around 4 years ago 🙂
Life is strange, isn't it? You wake up every day not knowing what's in store You go to sleep only to journey yet again. Our universe is so vast and yet it is so detailed. Everything has a story including you. You may not be the first person to exist, you definitely won't be the last. But you are the only you that exists. You're unique from everyone else in your own special way. Life is a journey You will hit many bumps along the way. But you'll keep moving on. As cheesy as it sounds it's not the destination that matters, it's the journey That's what makes life so wonderful. The good and bad moments we go through The people we meet The places we go, and the goals we accomplish It shows how incredible we can be and what we can do if we keep pushing on If we keep on living If you keep being you So life may be strange but it's also very beautiful and you are part of it. So live your life the way you want to Do what you wanna do Be who you wanna be Just be you and never stop being you So don't cry, keep pushing on And smile for all the universe to see I wish you the best on your journey through this strange thing which we call Life
I haven’t posted for so long and it feels good to be back, to again interacting with you all 🙂
March 20, 2024 at 7:24 pm
Appreciate this conten. Very well written and presented.
March 20, 2024 at 7:57 pm
Thank you, Deepak, for your excellent post, and the philosophical take on our happiness.
Joanna
March 20, 2024 at 9:43 pm
Thank you Joanna for your appreciation.
March 21, 2024 at 7:23 am
A Beautiful and inspiring blog with insights I Certainly would say LIve it and ENJOY every moment and be a blessing to others you meet. Creativity and inner goodness are life’s treasures but I have to add here when faith is added to the mix, certainty of eternal destination makes the journey more meaningful and worthwhile. That is a search to encourage others. WHO do you put faith in?. Certainly not someone or a building or an ideal but in ONE who has lived, died and points the WAY towards our souls eternity. Life indeed is truly WONDERFUL if we never be shaped by anyone’s ideologies, Be inspired by example. Thank you for your post and appreciation from me for who you as a unique person already are.
March 21, 2024 at 5:49 pm
Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful reflection! Your perspective on adding faith to life’s journey resonates deeply. It’s true, finding meaning and purpose in something beyond ourselves can truly enrich our experiences. Your emphasis on being inspired by example rather than rigid ideologies is both refreshing and profound. Thank you for sharing your insights and appreciation.
March 21, 2024 at 11:06 am
Glad to have you back, Deepak! Loved this post.
March 21, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Thank you Ritish for your appreciation.
March 21, 2024 at 11:16 am
This post totally resonated with me. Especially the part about chasing external validation – I can definitely relate to that! So glad you’re on this journey of self-discovery. (Curious about the story behind your self-discovery moment 🤔)
March 21, 2024 at 5:52 pm
Thank you for your appreciation, I am glad that you are able to connect with the blog. Story behind my self discovery starts during my college days when my father passed away and in lot of hurdles and new challenges keeps me finding myself. And still I’m working on it.
March 21, 2024 at 4:31 pm
This is beautiful, Deepak! I think growing empathy for others comes from accepting ourselves. It’s hard to judge someone harshly if we understand them, and experience is a wonderful teacher. Happy spring! ❤️
March 21, 2024 at 5:53 pm
Thank you so much Cheryl, I completely agree with you. Accepting ourselves helps cultivate empathy for others, making it easier to understand and relate to them. Experience truly is a valuable teacher in fostering compassion and understanding. Happy spring to you too! ❤️
March 24, 2024 at 7:36 pm
Such a wonderful uplifting post! Discovering who we are and diving in everyday to who we are today is a gift as are your words. Wonderful post my friend.
I was confused is this from Ritish or Deepak or both of you? 💓
March 26, 2024 at 11:31 am
Thank you for your appreciation Cindy, this post is written by me. Good to hear from you again😊 How are you?
March 27, 2024 at 5:58 am
I love this post. It’s so uplifting. Are you familiar with Groundhog Day, that 90s movie with Bill Murray where he keeps repeating the same day over and over? The funny thing is a lot of people hate that movie, but I think they might be missing the point. Basically, he keeps reliving the same day over and over… until he begins to improve himself and also help other people in a variety of situations. Then the “spell” ends. To me, empathy was the key, and he found it and evolved. 🙂
April 2, 2024 at 2:25 pm
Thanks so much for your comment! That Groundhog Day totally cracked me up! I haven’t seen it in ages, but you’re absolutely right. On the surface, it’s a silly comedy, but there’s this whole hidden layer about self-improvement and helping others.
Maybe we all need a little Groundhog Day in our lives to nudge us in the right direction. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
March 28, 2024 at 5:56 pm
Hi… Friend, I am new to this portal. Started following you. Please follow me 😊
March 28, 2024 at 6:15 pm
Thank you for following the Aspiring Blog. Indeed we will follow you.
March 28, 2024 at 7:23 pm
Thankyou 😊❤️
April 3, 2024 at 1:11 am
I’m forwarding your Gandalf quote to my readers with grateful mention 🙏
April 3, 2024 at 7:29 am
Thank you very much. It means a lot for us.
April 3, 2024 at 12:51 pm
Good post.I subscribed. Have a good day🍀☘️⭐️💝
April 24, 2024 at 2:28 pm
Thank you for stopping by 😊
April 24, 2024 at 5:13 am
Great post! Thanks for sharing 🙂