Ladder of Horizon and the River of time

Imagine yourself floating down the river of time, its currents varying between calm waters and turbulent rapids. Your position in this river dictates the challenges you face and the efforts required to stay afloat. If you find yourself born into turbulence or inadvertently swept into it, perseverance becomes your companion as you struggle to maintain stability. In the middle zone, a balance of tranquility and turmoil defines your journey, while those fortunate to reside in the calm zone glide effortlessly, spared the need for constant vigilance.

Yet, regardless of our placement in this metaphorical river, our eyes are fixed on the distant calm, viewing it as the ultimate destination. Driven by the desire for peace and stability, we often become consumed by the pursuit, forgetting our mortal nature and neglecting the pursuit of happiness and contentment essential to our transient existence. As mortal beings, our primary goal should be to accrue as much joy as possible before our inevitable departure from this world.

However, the revelation of a limited lifespan serves as a sobering reminder of our mortality. As the CEOs of our own lives, it falls upon us to make decisions with full awareness of our temporal nature. While striving for the calm zone may seem enticing, it risks limiting our experiences and inhibiting our pursuit of fulfillment across all aspects of life. Instead, adopting a holistic approach, viewing life as a multifaceted project with various departments, ensures that happiness and contentment are not sacrificed in the relentless pursuit of tranquility.

As a personal trainer, I advocate for progress without complacency, introducing my clients to the concept of the ladder of horizon. Picture yourself climbing a ladder, surrounded by countless individuals above you. Though progress may feel slow, each step forward is a testament to your perseverance. However, there comes a point where further ascent seems impossible, leading to frustration and discontent. In such moments, it is vital to gain perspective: look down and appreciate the progress made, while also finding inspiration in the achievements of those above you, fostering gratitude and motivation.

Yet, whether navigating the river or ascending the ladder, it is imperative to acknowledge the transient nature of our existence. While striving for the calm may be tempting, it should not come at the expense of our present happiness and contentment. Ultimately, we must embrace the reality of mortality, living our lives with purpose and fulfillment, mindful of the journey's ephemeral nature.