Recently, I encountered a subtle but powerful lesson that left me so eloquently captured in my imagination. It has since broken an iceberg of a thousand lessons in my thoughts and personal reflections. Since I was employed in my current position, I’ve channeled all my energy into the service of others. Whether supporting fish farming initiatives, or advocating for the welfare of cultured fish, my work has always been driven by a sense of purpose. Like many people in public service, I have engaged many stakeholders, spearheaded many activities and realized many deliverables. Sometimes, I have extended beyond the call of duty, defying strenuous times and working through the quietness of chilly darkest nights to complete the assignments.
As would any human being, I have also had my share of expectations: that one day, my efforts will be noticed, recognised and appreciated or even reciprocated. But the sad reality has often dawned on me opposite of my expectations.
Being a good, kind or hardworking person doesn't entitle us to being rewarded or recognized by people around us and those who we work with. Most unfortunately, the realization that holding onto such expectations can weigh us down with disappointment, mostly expressed through unspoken resentment is something we should contend with to free our conscience from the weight of expectations.
If you are providing services, give free without any conditions attached. Serve without seeking validation from anyone. Lead from a place of inner conviction, not motivated by external rewards. This can help you shift your focus from expectation to empowerment.
Although the world often equates success to effort that leads to achievement, often rewarded with entitlement, this expectation is often flawed. Success is not what we achieve but what we become as a result of the achievement. We have to find inner peace by liberating others from the obligation of meeting our silent expectations in order to regain control over ourselves. Let's begin to give our all and love, expecting nothing in return, and build from fullness and fulfillment rather than emptiness and neediness.
So I work with the joy of service, not because of expectations of a hefty compensation, neither applause nor gratitude, but because it aligns with the purpose I live for and the person who I am. My service to humanity is my personal signature. That said eloquently is sufficient and in itself it is a great fulfilment. It is enough. It is my conviction.
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