Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha: An Unusually Hardcore Dharma Book

by Daniel M. Ingram

One of the keys to mobilizing energy is motivation, so if energy is lacking, try to remember why you are doing all of this. I personally can think of lots of reasons, but will focus on the major ones: Because you are suffering, dissatisfied, or miserable and want to put a stop to the aspects of suffering that can be ended by skillful mental and perceptual development. Because you are curious about how the mind works, who you are and are not, what you can learn to do with your mind, and the like. Because you want to help others and so wish to transform yourself, your understanding, and your abilities for the better to make service to the world easier. Because challenges inspire you, as in, Q: “Why did you climb that mountain?” A: “Because it was there!” Because you can see how much better things could be if you were to transform your mind in specific ways related to practice—the flipside of the suffering coin. Because you want to finish what you have already started. Because waking up is just so totally cool! All the above may figure into your reasons for mobilizing energy in practice, and reconnecting with them when the energy is low can help.