Title: "Seeking Numbers Like Sales, Annual Income, and Performance Won't Lead to Happiness: Knowing Enough"
Prologue: The Curse of Numbers
In the society we live in, numbers govern nearly everything. Annual income, sales, performance, rankings—these serve as measures of our worth and seemingly promise happiness. But is the relentless pursuit of these numbers truly the path to happiness?
Many people are conditioned to believe that achieving certain figures will bring them joy. For instance, reaching an annual income of 5 million yen might satisfy someone, but soon they’ll aim for 6 million, then 8 million, and eventually 10 million. This infinite pursuit resembles an endless marathon. Ultimately, no matter how much one achieves, true inner peace remains elusive.
The chase for numbers breeds fear and anxiety. The fear of losing what little financial success or achievements we possess binds us. For example, when a person's annual income suddenly drops, anxiety can overwhelm them, robbing them of peace of mind.
Chapter 1: The Life of Chasing Numbers
We live under the belief that happiness can be attained through achievement. However, this mindset often becomes a source of suffering. The pursuit of money is particularly pronounced. We work tirelessly to earn money, hoping that it will lead to happiness.
Even when one reaches a certain income level, the next target looms large. One might think, "I'll be satisfied at 10 million yen," only to find themselves aiming even higher. Consequently, we become ensnared in a cycle where numbers dictate our worth and our peace of mind eludes us.
Chasing numbers leads to constant fear and anxiety, particularly regarding the potential loss of money or success. The worry about declining income can plague many, disrupting their inner tranquility.
Chapter 2: What is Happiness?
So, what is happiness? Many equate it with "achievement" or "success," but these feelings are often fleeting. Sustainable happiness relies on our state of mind.
Buddha once spoke of “knowing enough,” which encourages us to find contentment in our current circumstances and to avoid craving excess. We must realize that we already possess much of what brings us happiness. The small joys in daily life, such as conversations with friends or enjoying a delicious meal, are often the true sources of happiness.
When we pursue happiness, we unconsciously desire "more." However, learning to be content allows us to appreciate our present selves and feel fulfilled.
Chapter 3: Breaking Free from Numbers
To escape the chains of numerical pursuits, it’s vital to “reduce what we seek.” This can be achieved through the following methods:
- Cultivating Gratitude
Make it a habit to find things to be thankful for in your daily life. Even small moments of appreciation can enrich your spirit. - Letting Go of Desires
Distinguish between what you truly need and what you don't. Releasing attachment to materialism and numbers lightens your heart. - Being Satisfied with the Present
Accept your current situation and find satisfaction in who you are now. This acceptance liberates you from unnecessary comparisons and competition.
Chapter 4: The Importance of Knowing Enough
“Knowing enough” means discovering an appropriate standard for oneself. Understanding what you truly seek regarding money and numbers is crucial.
For instance, by identifying your necessary income level, you no longer need to pursue unrealistic financial goals. Finding this standard stabilizes your mind and brings you closer to true happiness.
Chapter 5: The Difference Between Desire and Attachment
Having desires isn’t inherently bad; it’s essential to have goals and grow. However, understanding the difference between desire and attachment is key.
Attachment involves a strong need to attain something. As long as we remain attached, achieving peace of mind is challenging. In contrast, desire is simply a wish, and there’s no need to blame ourselves if it remains unfulfilled.
Masakatsu Kobayashi teaches us that “even if our desires remain unfulfilled, there are ways to live happily.” This is an important lesson we should keep in mind.
Conclusion: The Journey to Find Happiness
As long as we fixate on numbers and material possessions, we cannot discover true happiness. We must break free from the pursuit of figures and shift our focus to the small joys present in our daily lives.
Through Buddha's teachings, let’s learn to know enough and find satisfaction in our current selves, as this understanding leads to true happiness. Moving forward in life, we should seek a path that enables us to live richly without being bound by numbers.
To lead lives filled with lightness and happiness, we must continue this journey.
Thank you for watching until the end today. I look forward to seeing you in the next video. I appreciate all your views, comments, and likes. I love you, I cherish you, I am thankful for you.
