Laziness is your greatest internal enemy which prevents you from achieving your goals

Ālasyaṁ Hi Manuṣyāṇāṁ Śarīrastho Mahān Ripuḥ
Nāstyudyamasamo Bandhuḥ Kṛtvā Yaṁ Nāvasīdati

Laziness is indeed a great enemy residing in the body of humans. There is no friend like effort, for with effort, one never faces failure.

🕉️ Let us understand the meaning of the shlok

• Ālasyaṁ: Refers to "laziness" or "indolence." It indicates a lack of motivation or reluctance to take action.

• Manuṣyāṇāṁ: Refers to "humans." This shlok is highlighting a challenge that affects all people.

• Śarīrastho Mahān Ripuḥ: Means "a great enemy residing in the body." Here, laziness is described as an internal enemy that hinders growth and success.

• Nāsti Udyamasamo Bandhuḥ: Indicates that "there is no friend like effort." Udyama means effort or industriousness, and Bandhuḥ means friend, suggesting that sincere effort is the best ally.

• Kṛtvā Yaṁ Nāvasīdati: Means "by making effort, one does not fail or fall into despair." This phrase emphasizes that effort leads to progress and prevents one from sinking into failure.

This shlok conveys a powerful message about the importance of overcoming laziness, which is a hidden but powerful adversary, and embracing effort as our truest friend. Effort not only leads to success but also guards us against despondency and failure.

⌚ When to chant this shlok?

• Recite this shlok at the start of your day to set a proactive, motivated tone.

• It is beneficial to chant when feeling lethargic or procrastinating, as a reminder of the importance of effort.

• This shlok is also helpful to repeat when setting goals, as it reinforces the commitment to take action rather than yielding to laziness.

🧩 Three easy ways to integrate this shlok in your daily lives

Morning Affirmation: Begin your day by reciting this shlok to set an intention of diligence and commitment to your tasks.

Overcome Procrastination: Whenever you find yourself procrastinating, repeat this shlok to remind yourself of the value of effort and to take the next step.

Reflective Evening Practice: At the end of the day, reflect on your efforts. Use this shlok as a reminder to give your best each day, regardless of the outcome.

🙏 Benefits of daily chanting

• Increased Motivation: Helps overcome inertia and inspires positive action.

• Strengthened Work Ethic: Reinforces the value of consistent effort, leading to productivity and success.

• Reduced Procrastination: Encourages taking immediate action, decreasing the tendency to delay important tasks.

💡 Good to know…

In ancient Hindu philosophy, laziness or ālasyam is considered a serious internal obstacle, comparable to external enemies like illness or poverty. Ancient Ayurvedic texts even discuss laziness as a subtle dosha (imbalance) affecting mental clarity and motivation. Additionally, in the Mahabharata, several verses emphasize that victory over laziness is crucial to mastering the self—a feat considered greater than conquering any external opponent. This cultural perspective on self-discipline was so deeply valued that many texts urged rulers and students alike to cultivate udyama (effort) as the surest path to success.

💭 Take a moment to reflect…

How can you incorporate consistent effort into your daily routine to overcome laziness and achieve your goals?

Hari om!

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