Being Content vs Being Complacent

 ‘Rahul,’ said Rinku on the Zoom call. ‘Why’re you being so chilled about exams? You’re hardly putting in any effort?’

‘Ah,’ said Rahul. ‘That’s because I found the secret to happiness.’

‘What’s it?’ asked Rinku.

‘Contentment my dear,’ said Rahul. ‘Be happy with whatever we get.’

‘What?’ said Rinku. ‘You’re capable of more. With a little effort you can earn better results Rahul. That’ll make you even more content.’

‘But why more?’ said Rahul ‘When whatever I get is enough.’

‘Rakesh bhaiyya,’ said Rinku. ‘There’s something warped about this logic. I’m aware that contentment is good but I get the feeling that Rahul is using ‘contentment’ to not work harder.’

‘That’s a subtle yet important difference you pointed out Rinku,’ said Rahul. ‘On one hand, we can fool ourselves that we’re content and stop working towards fulfilling our potential. On the other hand, we could work ourselves to death, and never be content, peaceful or happy. What’s the balance?’

‘Yes bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘I’m confused. What should I do? Be content or discontent?’

‘There’s a way,’ said Rakesh thoughtfully. ’To be content and also to work towards our potential.’

‘How bhaiyya?’ asked Rinku.

‘First, we must understand the difference between being content and being complacent,’ said Rakesh. ‘Being content is being happy with what we already have –our marks, possessions, the state of things – which is a good place to be in. But what can affect this state of contentment negatively is complacency. Being complacent is being too satisfied with our situation and doing nothing about it which can lead to losing whatever we already have. You see, everything needs some effort to grow, some energy to hold it together, and that’s what keeps it alive.’

‘So,’ said Rinku. ‘The balance is that we must be content with what we already have and at the same time, strive to grow what we have– knowledge, relationships, material possessions or whatever else - to its fullest possible potential. Grow to our fullest potential in other words.’

‘But that’s never ending bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘How can we be both?’

‘By working towards our potential without getting attached to the results as all great men before us have already said,’ said Rakesh. ‘Do things that contribute to our growth, not to show others. That way you’ll be content and also grow.’

‘Thanks bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘I’ll work for my exams to grow towards my potential without worrying myself unnecessarily about topping. I’ll give my best and not be discontent.’

‘Yes bhaiyya,’ said Rinku. ‘This is the real secret to happiness.’

Pro Tip: To grow in a balanced manner, understand the difference between being content and being complacent. Be content with what you have but also work towards achieving your fullest potential in all spheres of your life.

 

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