Ramakrishna: 'If you want to go east, don't go west.'

If you want to go east, don't go west.

The quote by Ramakrishna, "If you want to go east, don't go west," is a straightforward expression of the importance of clarity and focus in our intentions and actions. It is a simple reminder that if we want to achieve a particular goal or reach a certain destination, we must direct our efforts towards it, rather than diverting our attention elsewhere. Whether taken literally or metaphorically, this quote speaks to the value of alignment and purpose in our lives.At first glance, this quote may seem obvious and unremarkable. Why would anyone want to go in the opposite direction of their desired destination? However, when we look deeper, it becomes apparent that this quote carries a broader philosophical implication. It challenges us to consider the nature of choice, the power of intention, and the consequences of our actions.In our everyday lives, we often find ourselves pulled in different directions, distracted by various desires or obligations. We may have conflicting wants or be enticed by short-term gratification that steers us away from what truly matters. Ramakrishna's quote serves as a poignant reminder that staying focused on our objectives and making conscious choices aligned with our deepest desires is crucial if we wish to achieve what we set out to accomplish.Consider, for instance, the individual who dreams of achieving career success but continually engages in actions that hinder their progress, such as procrastination or prioritizing instant gratification. If this person truly wants to go east, metaphorically representing their desired achievement, they must resist the temptation to go west, symbolizing distractions and detours. This could involve cultivating discipline, setting clear goals, and making deliberate choices aligned with their ultimate aim.However, this quote can also be approached from a more abstract perspective. It invites us to reflect on the nature of reality and the interconnectedness of our choices. In this context, going west does not merely represent a physical direction but a philosophical concept. Going west implies deviating from our true path and engaging in actions or holding beliefs that are contradictory to our goals or values.In this sense, going west can represent the pursuit of instant gratification at the expense of long-term fulfillment, or the adoption of beliefs that hinder personal growth and understanding. It warns against the dangers of getting caught up in societal expectations, peer pressure, or conforming to the status quo when it contradicts our inner compass.To contrast, going east can symbolize the pursuit of truth, personal growth, and self-realization. It embodies the courage to follow our intuition, even when it may seem unconventional or pose challenges. Going east represents a deliberate choice to align our actions with our deepest values, embracing curiosity, open-mindedness, and the willingness to explore uncharted territories in pursuit of our goals.Ultimately, Ramakrishna's quote highlights the importance of self-awareness, intentionality, and the power of choice in shaping our lives. It calls us to examine our actions and motivations, to assess whether they bring us closer to our desired destination or pull us further away. This quote serves as a gentle reminder that if we want to go east, we must resist the allure of going west, both in the physical and metaphorical sense. By doing so, we pave the way for a more purposeful and fulfilling journey in our personal and professional lives.