The “mind” essentially represents the data—whether learned intentionally or incidentally—that has been recorded within us throughout our upbringing. However, the actual device upon which this data is recorded is the body. The brain, the physical form—all of this constitutes the body.
In movies and through the words of motivational speakers, we often hear the assertion that if the mind is determined, nothing is impossible. The implication is that if one subjects the body to extreme physical exertion, the desired task becomes achievable. Consequently, some individuals end up trapped in the grip of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Furthermore, when individuals suffering from psychological disorders consult a psychologist, they are often advised to engage in physical activity. As people reach their 30s and 40s, many tend to gain weight and find that their bodies no longer cooperate as they once did; they may also begin to struggle with conditions such as diabetes. The advice a psychologist typically offers in such cases is to engage in physical exercise. In response, patients frequently ask: “For how long must I do this?”
Many people tend to engage in a constant competition with others—setting rigid benchmarks such as “I must study for this many hours” or “I must exercise for this specific duration.” However, one should never compare oneself to others. We alone truly understand the nature of our own bodies; we alone know exactly how long we are capable of studying.What we need to consider here is the extent to which our body has performed in the past. We must take that into account; if, for instance, I suddenly declare—claiming to have had a sudden epiphany today—that I am going to lift heavy weights and strive for a six-pack, some form of physical damage is bound to occur somewhere along the line. It could manifest as spinal injury, knee pain, or some other physical ailment.
Similarly, consider a young woman who has never been particularly academically inclined. If she compares herself to others and decides—out of a desperate desire to secure a job—to study for 18 hours a day, what is the likely outcome? She may find herself in a situation where she fails to comprehend even the slightest bit of the material.
If asked, “Who is your inspiration?”, one might readily name a specific individual. However, from a psychological perspective, it does not work that way. Psychology posits a specific model:
Aspiration → Performance → Inspiration.
And again: Aspiration → Performance → Inspiration.
According to this model, what you should do is derive your inspiration from your own past performance. Drawing upon that inspiration, you should then set your aspirations for the next level.
For example, suppose you previously scored 30 marks. It is unrealistic to suddenly aim for 80 marks simply by comparing yourself to someone else. Instead, if you invest a reasonable amount of effort, you might reach 40 marks; subsequently, you could progress to 50, then 60, and so on—demonstrating a gradual, steady growth.
This is how the process functions psychologically.
Physically, too, the principle holds true: a person who has never engaged in walking exercises will likely develop back pain if they suddenly attempt to walk for a full hour.
While the mind may be brimming with enthusiasm and eager to take on such challenges, the body, unfortunately, does not always cooperate.
Mind and Body Mind and Body Mind and Body
