Life is a series of ups and downs, and how you handle these peaks and valleys can define your journey. Often, we confuse the concept of “letting go” with “giving up.” However, the art of letting go can help you approach life with a more relaxed attitude, allowing you to face challenges with wisdom and grace.
The unexpected fall
A major corporation was hiring a public relations manager. With fierce competition among the numerous applicants, one individual was fortunate enough to receive an interview invitation after several rounds of rigorous tests. However, during his interview, he tripped and scattered his documents in front of the interviewers. With composure, he picked up each document, and sat down with a smile.
The interviewer in the center asked: “Do you think that fall will affect your interview outcome?”
Unfazed, the man replied: “Life is unpredictable; plans can’t always keep up with changes. We constantly face the unexpected. All I can do is approach situations with a positive attitude, do my best, and wait for the outcome. If I worry too much about the outcome, even a small mishap can lead to a bad result. But if I stay calm, it might turn out well. So whether this affects my interview or not isn’t in my control; it’s for you to decide.”
He was later hired by the company, only to find out that the interviewer who posed the question was the chairman. The chairman humorously wrote in his offer letter: “You literally fell into our company.”
For PR professionals, crisis management is essential. This man, with an unexpected fall, showcased his calm and wise approach, which earned him the chairman’s approval and the job. But if you’re thinking of trying this during an interview, think twice! It might not work in your favor.
The weight of worries
Another individual, overwhelmed by issues in his career, relationships, and family, sought guidance from a wise monk. Upon hearing his woes, the monk instructed him to hold a large water jug while talking, without setting it down.
As the man spoke, his arm grew tired until he had to put the jug down. The monk made him pick it up again and continue sharing his troubles. Confused by the odd request, he wondered why he couldn’t just have a relaxed conversation without the burden of the jug.
After a while, seeing the man’s trembling hands, the monk signaled him to put the jug down.
Puzzled, the man asked: “Master, why did you ask me to hold this heavy jug while speaking to you?”
The monk smiled: “If you don’t like holding such a heavy object while talking to me, why do you choose to carry so many worries in your life? Physical burdens tire our hands, prompting us to release them. But why don’t we think of letting go of the intangible worries in our hearts? Tangible burdens are easy to drop, but we cling to intangible stresses.”
Embracing a wiser approach to life’s challenges
For problems with clear solutions, there’s no need to worry. For those that are beyond your control, worrying won’t help either. If you learn to let go at the right time, you can live a more open and relaxed life, and handle problems more wisely.
Remember, letting go doesn’t mean giving up. It’s about embracing life’s highs and lows with grace and wisdom. So the next time life throws a curveball your way, remember the lesson of the water jug — let go of your worries and face challenges with a clear mind.
Translated article
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