I often feel an existential dread, questioning the very purpose of my actions, in fact of my life. And then everything seems pointless, including this series. Why bother when others have already said everything there is to about the Bhagavad Gita? And do I even have anything worthwhile to add? Each time this happens, it's easy to give up.

Then a new shiny object comes along.

Rinse. Repeat. Forever and ever.

So how do I overcome obstacles and doubts in my creative work and persist? How do I cultivate a positive and grateful attitude towards my creative work?

The following verse is, for me, a way out of the muddled waters.

यत्करोषि यदश्नासि यज्जुहोषि ददासि यत्। यत्तपस्यसि कौन्तेय तत्कुरुष्व मदर्पणम् ।।९.२७।। Yatkaroshi yadashnasi yajjuhoshi dadasi yat. Yattapasyasi kaunteya tatkuruushva madarpanam.

Chapter 9, Verse 27

Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer, whatever you give. Whatever austerities you practice, do that, O son of Kunti, as an offering to Me.

The shlok suggests that by dedicating my creative work to a higher purpose or source, I can stay inspired and committed.

So how do I find my calling and align my creative work with it?

I started by listing down the purposes that I most resonate with:

1. Expressing creatively

2. Finding inner peace and happiness

3. Creating a positive impact on the world

4. Pursuing personal growth

5. Exploring spirituality & philosophy

And now, I evaluate anything that I am working on or plan to do using the above criteria. If it does not meet at least three of them, I either rethink the project or task or say no.

This exercise helps me align my creativity with my purpose, giving me clarity and fulfilment, which keeps me motivated and allows me to remain persistent.

So, have I banished the dread? I wish it were that easy. But each step reveals new uncertainties but also possibilities.

Do you also struggle to stay motivated and persist? I invite you to share your experiences and insights in the comments section below. Additionally, I eagerly await your suggestions and feedback. Thank you for your time and attention, the greatest gift you can give me.

I am Saurin Desai, and every week, I delve into the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Reach out to me at gitacreativesoul@gmail.com. Together, we can build a community of creative souls on this journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

And from this moment forward, I am on a quest to maintain resilience and stay committed to my craft, even in the face of adversity and doubts.