Internal reward systems

External reward systems are based on parameters that we cannot control or control to a limited extent such as short term financial gains, power over others or things, recognition, and approval of others. When our actions are based on external reward systems, we are able to exercise little control over our lives. To be in control of our lives, we need to base our actions on reward systems that are determined by us. The scenario of having no reward systems at all where our actions are entirely spontaneous and inspired is more difficult to achieve without passing through the intermediate stage of being motivated by internal reward systems, especially since the lack of reward systems may take us backwards by making it difficult for us to overcome inertia or inaction.

Internal reward systems are put in place by us. They establish that what is good for others is also good for us. They enable win-win situations. Internal reward systems clarify the link between what is beneficial to us in the long run, and what is beneficial to others in the long run. Personal internal reward systems include self-knowledge, self-awareness, wisdom (from experience), peace, and bliss. In addition to giving us the priceless states of confidence, peace and bliss, the internal rewards of self-knowledge, self-awareness, and wisdom provide us with unlimited potential to generate external rewards, such as money and recognition. External rewards that are achieved without achieving internal rewards first, come with the price of loss of peace of mind, and are short lived.

Karma Yoga in the Gita

The following extracts from the Bhagavad Gita help us understand Karma Yoga

1) Not even for a moment can man be without action. Helplessly all are driven into action by the forces of nature

2) Not by refraining from action can a man be free of action; nor can he attain perfection by mere renunciation

3) The world is held in bondage to action,unless action is a sacrifice

4) The ignorant act while attached to their actions. The wise act, free of attachment. for the welfare of the world

5) The actions of a great man are an inspiration to the world. Whatever he does, becomes a standard for others to follow.

6) The state achieved by the wise is also that achieved by those of selfless action. He who sess that both paths are the same, he truly sees

7) Thy rights is to thy actions alone, but never to the fruits of the actions; let not the rewards of action be thy motive; nor yet be attached to inaction.

Is Work Worship?

Each of the definitions of work, such as

Work: exertion or effort directed to produce or accomplish something; labor; toil, the result of exertion, labor, or activity; a deed or performance

point to something that is hard and relates to motives to accomplish results.

Worship: adoring reverence or regard: excessive worship of business success.

It seems that given these definitions of work, the cliche "Work is Worship" can be used to justify not having a life and being a workaholic.

Work is not Worship

Can i do everything that i love doing?

YES! The answer is yes. The first step to doing everything that you love doing is to accept that you can! The other steps of knowing, planning, prioritizing, executing, and moving on happen once we say YES! Nobody can stop us from doing everything that we love doing, but we, ourselves. so say YES!