FAQ on Meditation 030
How should one proceed if success comes early?
If one has insufficient will-power, one can become attached to success. If you are successful early, you should tell yourself that you can lose your success at any time. The wise man is neither overly joyful at his own success, nor overly discontent. When things come unexpectedly or at a time of despair, it hasn't come by willpower but may be due to other factors: merit or proper technique. It is difficult to control the mind from being delighted by success, but one shouldn't be reckless. If you are not reckless, but just gladdened by success, that's all right. Tell yourself that the world has two sides, a bright side and a dark side, always.
If one has insufficient will-power, one can become attached to success. If you are successful early, you should tell yourself that you can lose your success at any time. The wise man is neither overly joyful at his own success, nor overly discontent. When things come unexpectedly or at a time of despair, it hasn't come by willpower but may be due to other factors: merit or proper technique. It is difficult to control the mind from being delighted by success, but one shouldn't be reckless. If you are not reckless, but just gladdened by success, that's all right. Tell yourself that the world has two sides, a bright side and a dark side, always.