Explanation for Karma - Universal self

As you sow so shall you reap" This is the Law of Karma. Interestingly, both science and religion recognize this law. In science it is often stated, “For every action there is an equal and opposing reaction.” Its religious counterparts are, “An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth”;; and “As you do unto others, it will be done unto you.” Even today’s common knowledge expresses this principle in the saying, “What goes around, comes around.” This is the law of karma, of cause and effect.

Though most people intutively understand the concept of Karma, there isn't an explanation as such for it. The explanation is that we all have something in common, which is the universal self. When we recognize the universal self in others (as well as in ourselves) and act in their best interests of the whole, we therefore act in our own best interests.

Reincarnation and Karma as truth

The Gita states Reincarnation and Karma as absolute truth.

If we could for one moment, hold this thought of reincarnation as truth, how would we change the life we are in now?

Would we treat people with more kindness and empathy? Perhaps we would cherish our loved ones more? Would we be responsible for our actions or even our words, knowing that we would be held accountable in our next incarnation?

When unsure, reflect

There are times when we don't know what to do. Or, we may know exactly what is to be done, but we may not be able to get ourselves to do it. During these times, rather than just forcing ourselves to do it while giving less than our best, we should take some time to reflect and reexamine. During this re-examination, things become clearer, and we are able to develop creative solutions to our problems rather than the straight forward ones that we might have forced ourselves to adopt. The ego just wants problems to go away, and wants to be occupied in doing things that it believes will alleviate the problems. However, our actions that are motivated by the ego often make things more difficult for ourselves, and kill creativity.

Sometimes, that which appears to be inaction (medidation, contemplation, reflection) is superior to action. When we are 100% sure, we give our best. When we put in a half-hearted attempt, it shows. Also when others notice that we are not giving our best, we lose credibility. Hence, if you are not sure, do not jump into doing things. Instead pause, meditate and reflect. The answers will come to you automatically.

Delayed Gratification

"Deferred gratification or delayed gratification is the ability to wait in order to obtain something that one wants. This ability is usually considered to be a personality trait which is important for life success. Daniel Goleman has suggested that it is an important component of emotional intelligence. People who lack this trait are said to need instant gratification and may suffer from poor impulse control."


This may be a valuable trait for those trying achieve useless things by making themselves miserable till they achieve them. This is the carrot effect.

However, nothing is worth making yourself miserable. Happiness is in the now, and not in the future. You are successful based on who you are, and not on what you have. If you are miserable now because you are deferring gratification for later, you are not successful.