Chapter 1: The Essence of Being Water

"Be water, my friend," a well-known saying by Bruce Lee encapsulates the idea of being flexible and making the most of every situation. I want to share a personal story that reflects this philosophy.

Choosing to embody the essence of water is one of the most empowering decisions you can make to truly grow and thrive. However, this adaptability should be practiced mindfully.

Simply conforming to every circumstance can lead to exhaustion. You might feel burnt out, but often it’s more about overwhelming your mind with information that doesn’t necessarily guide you toward your aspirations.

This was my experience.

I was like water, fitting into every vessel I encountered. While this isn't inherently a bad trait, it becomes problematic without an understanding of your true self. I didn’t realize I possessed such adaptability.

Now, I remain flexible but consciously select the environments I wish to engage with. What started as a survival tactic has transformed into one of my greatest assets.

Previously, I felt compelled to blend into every environment I entered. As mentioned in my earlier post, "Dare to be different, dare to be you," I yearned for acceptance everywhere, believing it was essential for survival. This mindset encouraged me to actively listen, observe closely, and adapt quickly.

Little did I know how much I could influence my own reality. Even in unsuitable environments, I managed to flourish.

Over time, I recognized that I had been filling everyone else's cups while neglecting to choose the right ones for myself. I was following societal norms and expectations rather than my own path.

From a young age, one objective stood clear: happiness. I didn’t seek fame or vast wealth; I simply yearned to be truly happy.

I understood that happiness was fundamentally connected to love. A colleague once remarked, "Being happy can’t be a goal; it’s a state of being." This statement made me reflect. Why couldn’t happiness be a life goal?

As time progressed, my quest for love and happiness remained steadfast. My diverse experiences allowed me to keenly observe others and their journeys, both personal and professional.

I have always valued love. Unlike wealth, love does not stem from sheer effort or meticulous planning; it emerges naturally when you are open to it.

Interestingly, I have always been receptive to love, but not indiscriminately. Given the high regard in which I hold love and my own self-worth, I’ve been selective about when to open my heart. This discernment often leads others to perceive me as unavailable, saving me from unproductive interactions.

A humorous incident occurred recently. Yesterday afternoon, I accompanied my 3.5-year-old daughter to her kindergarten for a parents’ meeting. On our way out, we encountered one of her classmates, a boy. Later, during a phone call with her grandmother, I prompted her, "Tell grandma who you met after school yesterday."

As she recounted the encounter, she surprisingly stated, "My heart was laughing." Confused, I asked, "Why?" She replied, "Not me, but my heart was happy because we met him." I was both amused and charmed by her unique expression of emotions. Is it possible she truly felt that? It’s fascinating, isn’t it?

In my pursuit of love, I learned the importance of patience. Before confessing my feelings for someone, I would reflect, ensuring my emotions weren't influenced by temporary voids in my life.

Listening to your inner self and instincts is invaluable. They offer personalized guidance that no one else can provide.

Embrace the water within you. Observe, listen, learn, and adapt. Use this wisdom wisely.

Our intrinsic nature resembles water. As life unfolds, we adapt, whether we are aware of it or not. So, how could we desire anything different? Let’s recognize our true selves and align with our essence.

Stay open to exploring new experiences and trust your instincts as you navigate them. Deepen your understanding of yourself and the world around you.

For a life lived without regrets.

-Stavroula Sarri-

P.S. Reflecting on my initial question, "Is happiness a pursuit or a state of being?" From my perspective, happiness is indeed a state of being, but it should be on your list of non-negotiables when setting life goals.

Chapter 2: The Philosophy of Flow

In the video "Bruce Lee Be As Water My Friend," the importance of adaptability is explored through Bruce Lee's timeless wisdom. It emphasizes how embracing fluidity can lead to personal growth and resilience in life.

The second video, "Be Like Water: This Practice Will Transform Your Life FOREVER | The Philosophy Of Flow," dives deeper into how adopting a fluid mindset can drastically change your life for the better. It showcases practical methods for integrating this philosophy into your daily routine.