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Embracing the Flow – How Wisdom Transforms Hardships

By Desmond Yeoh SC

Life is a constant ebb and flow, a wave of experiences that shape our journey. The wise understand this deeply—they see reality as it truly is, rather than being swept away by fleeting emotions or external events. As the philosopher Epictetus once said, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.”

Often, what seems like a setback is actually an opportunity in disguise. A lost job might lead to a dream career, a failed relationship might open the door to self-discovery. Steve Jobs famously reflected on his firing from Apple, saying, “It was awful-tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it.” His setback led to the creation of Pixar and his eventual triumphant return to Apple.

Life’s ups and downs are what make it meaningful. We appreciate weekends because of workdays, joy because of sorrow. Without contrast, life would be monotonous. As Khalil Gibran beautifully put it, “The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.”

Solving problems brings a sense of fulfillment. Whether it’s overcoming a personal challenge or finding solutions in work, the process itself is rewarding. Studies have shown that engaging in problem-solving activities boosts dopamine levels, enhancing motivation and happiness.

Overcoming problems is much like bodybuilding—each challenge we face is a weight we lift, strengthening our resilience and character. Just as muscles grow through resistance and recovery, our minds and spirits evolve when we push through difficulties. The pain of failure, the strain of perseverance, and the discipline to keep going shape us into something stronger than before. Without obstacles, there’s no growth; without effort, there’s no reward. Much like how lifters embrace the burn to achieve their peak form, life’s struggles carve out the best version of ourselves, sculpting endurance, wisdom, and confidence. Every setback is just another rep toward becoming unbreakable.

Wisdom teaches us to embrace life’s waves, to find meaning in challenges, and to appreciate the contrast that makes life beautiful. By shifting our perspective, we can turn obstacles into stepping stones and create a life rich in fulfillment.