Today, I came to terms with a quote I saw long time ago — Life is suffering. And we have to find meaning in the suffering.
I never understood it. I enjoy life and I don’t feel like I am suffering. But then I reflected today and realised everything I do is suffering. Starting 1 company is tough for many, yet I’m starting many, with them surviving, because it brings me closer to the big picture I am building. A sprint for 2-3 months and I have a terrible week then I rejoice in the accomplishment of the sprint. And that is it. I enjoy what I do, even if it looks like torture to others (and sometimes I feel like I’m torturing myself).
But life is suffering. It isn’t always rainbows and butterflies. There are good days and bad. And that is okay. I find meaning in what I do. And I celebrate my success (75th Percentile) in silent, alone, and hanging out with just me. I find so much peace in having a whole weekend to myself. It’s a luxury I wouldn’t get after having kids and family. But the process before that celebration is suffering. With a terrible ROI, mind you. 3-4 months suffering, followed by about 2-10 days of celebration.
I like this philosophy. Lots of life is pain because there is so much goodness. The suffering of saying goodbye to someone you love, because love brings about suffering. The suffering of failing and trying over and over, because business/product excellence requires such a rigour. The suffering of only eating certain food in certain countries, because living to eat makes food an art that should not be disrespected. And of course, flying around the world and being shut in a metal cylinder so I can teach people in person.
Life is good and I’m grateful for the sufferings.
Love,
L