Natural talents are not enough, if one doesn't put consistent effort

Udyamena Hi Siddhyanti Kāryāṇi Na Manorathaiḥ
Na Hi Suptasya Siṁhasya Praviśanti Mukhe Mṛgāḥ

Success is achieved through effort, not merely by desires. Just as animals do not walk into the mouth of a sleeping lion, success does not come to those who only dream without effort.

🕉️ Let us understand the meaning of the shlok

• Udyamena: Refers to "effort" or "diligence." This term emphasizes that action and perseverance are essential for achieving success.

• Siddhyanti: Means "are accomplished" or "achieved." This suggests that goals are realized through active engagement.

• Kāryāṇi: Refers to "tasks" or "goals." It signifies the objectives one aspires to attain.

• Na Manorathaiḥ: Means "not by desires alone." This phrase points out that mere wishful thinking, without action, will not bring results.

• Suptasya Siṁhasya: Describes "the sleeping lion." Although the lion is powerful, if it remains inactive, it will not fulfill its needs.

• Praviśanti Mukhe Mṛgāḥ: Means "deer do not enter its mouth." This illustrates that even the most capable or powerful being cannot achieve results without taking action.

This shlok reminds us that while ambition and vision are essential, they must be backed by persistent effort. The analogy of the sleeping lion conveys that regardless of inherent strength or potential, success requires proactive steps.

⌚ When to chant this shlok?

• Chant this shlok to inspire motivation and productivity, especially when beginning a challenging task.

• It is beneficial to recite when feeling discouraged, to remind yourself that consistent effort brings success over time.

• This shlok is also helpful before goal-setting exercises, as it aligns your mind with a proactive and focused approach.

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

Morning Motivation: Begin your day by chanting this shlok as a reminder to pursue your goals with action, not just intention.

Before Goal-Setting: Use this shlok as a grounding thought before planning your tasks, reinforcing the need for effort and diligence.

Reflect During Challenges: When facing obstacles, reflect on this verse to reaffirm the importance of perseverance, regardless of temporary setbacks.

🙏 Benefits of daily chanting

• Enhances Motivation: Reinforces a strong work ethic, encouraging persistence in achieving goals.

• Encourages Self-Reliance: Cultivates a sense of responsibility and reduces dependence on external factors for success.

• Strengthens Focus on Action: Helps shift the focus from wishful thinking to concrete, actionable steps for accomplishment.

💡 Good to know…

The imagery of the sleeping lion in this shlok is a powerful reminder found in several ancient texts. It illustrates that natural talents, strengths, or positions alone do not guarantee success; only when these qualities are combined with effort can one achieve true accomplishment.

💭 Take a moment to reflect…

What specific steps can you take today to move closer to one of your long-held goals, putting aside mere thoughts for concrete actions?

Hari om!

Before you go, I want to let you know that your feedback is invaluable. Reply to this email with your thoughts or suggestions and help shape Shlok Pathshala more valuable.