Polarity and Purpose: Transformative Leadership Through the Gita
Anup Talwar
Corporate Trainer | Executive Coach - NLP | Enabling a sustained path to personal and professional development. I deliver training sessions that focus on enhancing EI, conflict management, team building and leadership.
From Krishna to Cosmos: Unveiling the 12 Universal Laws
Day 10: The Law of Polarity
In the Art of Living basic meditation and breath workshop, you are introduced to five principles, one of which is that "Opposing values are complementary to each other". This principle teaches that life's opposing values—such as joy and sorrow or success and failure—actually complement each other. Understanding this concept is key to living a balanced and fulfilling life.
This means that where there is light, there is also darkness; where there is good, there is also bad; where there is success, there is also failure. It proposes that all things exist as dualities or pairs of opposites. These opposites are not just random but are interconnected and define each other. For instance, you can't fully understand what "hot" means without understanding "cold." The existence of one pole (e.g., positive) is dependent on the existence of the opposite pole (e.g., negative). They are inseparable aspects of the same phenomenon. The nature of each pole is relative and depends on its comparison to the other. What may be considered "big" in one context might seem "small" in another.
We need to understand that these perceived opposites actually complement and define the very existence of each other. We appreciate good, but without the existence of bad, the significance of good is lost. This doesn't mean we should appreciate bad too; it simply means that it exists and we should maintain equanimity without getting carried away by extremes.
The Law of Polarity is a concept often discussed in various spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical teachings. It suggests that everything in the universe has its opposite or contrasting counterpart. This means that where there is light, there is also darkness; where there is good, there is also bad; where there is success, there is also failure.
In both the Bhagavad Gita and the Mahabharata, the Law of Polarity is manifested in the dynamic interplay of opposites, the necessity of contrast for growth, and the movement towards a higher understanding and integration of these dualities. The teachings encourage individuals to recognize and transcend these opposites to achieve spiritual maturity, wisdom, and inner peace. By understanding and embracing the inherent dualities of life, one can navigate the path of dharma with greater clarity and purpose.
Yudhishthira and Duryodhana
Yudhishthira and Duryodhana embody the classic duality of dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness). Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, is known for his unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and righteousness, even to his own detriment. His adherence to dharma, despite the trials he faces, highlights the virtues of integrity and morality. In contrast, Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, is driven by greed, envy, and a relentless pursuit of power, often resorting to deceit and treachery. This stark opposition between Yudhishthira’s virtuousness and Duryodhana’s unscrupulousness underscores the significance of each other's roles. Yudhishthira’s righteousness gains prominence and meaning in the face of Duryodhana’s evil, while Duryodhana’s actions, though condemnable, serve to highlight the challenges and importance of adhering to dharma.
Arjuna and Karna
Arjuna and Karna represent the dualities of divine favor and tragic heroism. Arjuna, a central figure among the Pandavas, is blessed with divine guidance and exceptional skills in archery, which he uses to uphold righteousness. His journey is marked by internal struggles and moral dilemmas, yet he ultimately acts in accordance with dharma under Krishna's counsel. Karna, on the other hand, is the tragic hero of the Mahabharata, born with divine qualities but cursed by circumstances and his loyalty to the flawed Duryodhana. Despite his valor and generosity, Karna’s life is a series of misfortunes and conflicts. The contrast between Arjuna’s fortune and Karna’s misfortune enriches the narrative, as Karna’s tragic fate and noble qualities evoke sympathy and respect, highlighting the complexities of fate and destiny. Their rivalry underscores the interplay of divine will and human effort, each enhancing the narrative of heroism and struggle.
Bhishma and Shakuni
Bhishma and Shakuni illustrate the opposition between steadfast loyalty and cunning manipulation. Bhishma, the grand patriarch of the Kuru dynasty, epitomizes duty, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty to his kingdom. His life is marked by his vow of celibacy and his commitment to protect and serve the throne, even when the throne itself is corrupt. In stark contrast, Shakuni, the wily and vengeful uncle of the Kauravas, represents manipulation and deceit. Driven by a desire for revenge against the Kuru dynasty, Shakuni uses his cunning to influence Duryodhana and orchestrate events leading to the Kurukshetra war. The interplay between Bhishma’s noble but tragic adherence to duty and Shakuni’s malevolent schemes underscores the complexities of loyalty and manipulation. Bhishma’s virtues shine brighter against Shakuni’s treachery, and Shakuni’s cunning, in turn, highlights the tragic flaws in Bhishma’s unwavering loyalty.
Krishna
Krishna, in the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, masterfully navigates the continuum of polarities to uphold the spirit of dharma, transcending the rigid confines of the law. His actions and teachings often reflect a deep understanding of the underlying principles of righteousness, rather than a strict adherence to conventional norms. For instance, Krishna's role in advising Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the results, embodying the essence of dharma over mere legalistic interpretations. Additionally, Krishna's strategic interventions, such as his counsel to use unorthodox tactics in the war, highlight his pragmatic approach to achieving a just outcome. He balances compassion with sternness, truth with strategic deception, illustrating that true adherence to dharma sometimes requires transcending the letter of the law to honor its spirit. This ability to fluidly move between polarities while steadfastly pursuing the greater good exemplifies Krishna's profound and dynamic embodiment of dharma.
Krishna's Addressing of Dualities
Acceptance
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna repeatedly emphasizes the importance of accepting life's dualities.
मात्रास्पर्शास्तु कौन्तेय शीतोष्णसुखदु: खदा: | आगमापायिनोऽनित्यास्तांस्तितिक्षस्व भारत ||
This, in essence, means, the nonpermanent appearance of happiness and distress, and their disappearance in due course, are like the appearance and disappearance of winter and summer seasons. They arise from sense perception and one must learn to tolerate them without being disturbed. Like just accept and move on. This teaching encourages Arjuna to see beyond the immediate dualities of pleasure and pain, success and failure.
Transcending Dualities
Krishna advises to rise above dualities by performing his duty without attachment to the results.
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सुखदुःखे समे कृत्वा लाभालाभौ जयाजयौ। ततो युद्धाय युज्यस्व नैवं पापमवाप्स्यसि।।
This, in essence, means one must treat alike pleasure and pain, gain and loss, and victory and defeat, and engage in battle for the sake of duty. Thus, you will not incur sin. Krishna further says,
ज्ञेयः स नित्यसंन्यासी यो न द्वेष्टि न काङ्क्षति। निर्द्वन्द्वो हि महाबाहो सुखं बन्धात्प्रमुच्यते।।
This, in essence, means one who neither hates nor desires the fruits of their activities is known to be always renounced. Such a person, free from all dualities, easily overcomes material bondage and is completely liberated. This teaching promotes the idea of Nishkama Karma (selfless action), where one focuses on duty rather than the dual outcomes of success or failure.
Unity in Opposites
Krishna often speaks about the unity underlying apparent opposites. He says:
समोऽहं सर्वभूतेषु न मे द्वेष्योऽस्ति न प्रिय: | ये भजन्ति तु मां भक्त्या मयि ते तेषु चाप्यहम् ||
This, in essence, means I am equally disposed to all living entities; I am neither inimical nor partial to anyone. But those who render service unto Me in devotion are very dear to Me. This statement underscores the non-dual nature of the divine, where all dualities merge into a singular divine will.
Practical Applications of Understanding and Using the Law of Polarity in Today's VUCA World
In today's VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, understanding and applying the Law of Polarity can be a powerful tool for managers and leaders in multinational corporations (MNCs). The Law of Polarity, which states that everything has an opposite, suggests that both positive and negative aspects coexist and define each other. As a manager, embracing this concept can lead to more effective leadership and organizational success. Firstly, recognizing that challenges and opportunities are two sides of the same coin helps in maintaining a balanced perspective during crises. For instance, viewing setbacks as learning opportunities can foster resilience and innovation within the team. Secondly, embracing diversity in thought and approach can lead to more robust problem-solving and decision-making processes. Encouraging open dialogue where differing opinions are valued can help in harnessing the creative potential of the team. Thirdly, balancing short-term goals with long-term vision is crucial. While immediate results are important, keeping an eye on future sustainability ensures the organization’s growth and stability. Lastly, understanding the importance of work-life balance is vital. By promoting policies that support employee well-being, such as flexible working hours and mental health resources, managers can enhance productivity and job satisfaction. In summary, utilizing the Law of Polarity in leadership involves leveraging the interplay of opposites to create a dynamic, adaptive, and resilient organization capable of thriving in the face of VUCA challenges.
When I integrate...
When I integrate these learnings and the divine knowledge from the Gita into my role as a leader in the modern world, I cultivate a leadership style that is not only effective but also deeply rooted in wisdom and compassion. By embracing the Law of Polarity, I develop the ability to navigate challenges with a balanced mindset, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. My decisions are guided by a sense of duty and righteousness, ensuring that my actions benefit both the organization and its stakeholders. This holistic approach fosters a positive and resilient organizational culture, where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels valued. Ultimately, by embodying these principles, I inspire my team to achieve excellence, fostering an environment of trust, innovation, and sustainable success. As a leader, I become a beacon of equanimity and purpose, steering my organization through the complexities of the modern world with grace and integrity.
This is possible only through the Guru's grace and blessings. I extend my deepest gratitude to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar Ji for his illuminating teachings, which have been a guiding light on my journey of self-discovery and spiritual evolution. Additionally, my heartfelt appreciation goes to Shri Balvinder Chandiok Ji for introducing me to the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and fueling my passion for its profound insights. It is through their inspiration that I continue to delve deeper into the depths of spiritual exploration.
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Day 6: Energy Transmutation and Dealing with Energy Vampires: Exploring the Bhagavad Gita Perspective
Disclaimer:
As mentioned earlier, I am not a know-it-all. I am a student and a good learner, continuously seeking knowledge and wisdom. I am learning and seek your blessings and guidance. Bless me! I understand that the Bhagavad Gita is infinitely vast, and this is my humble attempt to explore its depths and practical applicability.