Will Quotient – A Profound Tool to Move from Preya To Shreya
Will Quotient – A Profound Tool to Move from Preya To Shreya
In a previous blog post, I discussed the notions of Preya (immediate gratification) and Shreya (long-lasting fulfillment). Inspired by Eknath Easwaran’s “Essence of Upanishads, I emphasized how these variables shape our decisions and how easily we might be attracted toward the brief joys of Preya while ignoring the deeper rewards of Shreya.
However, recognizing the difference is only the beginning. The key question is, how do we always select Shreya? I have been captivated by this thought and struggle every day. I know many of my impulsive actions put me in a cycle of default mode. I know what the right thing is to do. However much I want to opt for Shreya, a part of my mind pushes me to go for Preya. I can see most people around me indulging in activities and habits, which, by their definition, are only for instant gratification and are harmful in the long run. But we all do the same.
The solution resides in a force more powerful than our constant desires: the will. In this blog, I look at Chapter 6 of the above-mentioned book, exploring the deep insights from the Upanishads on developing a strong “will quotient” (WQ), which the author believes is superior to IQ. Think of WQ as your willpower’s stamina for making mindful, challenging decisions that bring long-term joy, well-being, and fulfillment.
Preya's pull is not a moral flaw on our part. Preya is hardwired into our biology and reinforced by the environment. It's natural to be attracted often to some indulgence. Preya offers fast bursts of pleasure, whereas Shreya needs time and is generally less exciting at that moment.
Will vs. Desire has been a constant struggle with everyone since the dawn of time. You are not the only one experiencing the conflict between will and desire. It's a universal topic that has persisted throughout human history. Since ancient times, when Odysseus compelled his sailors to tie him to the mast to resist the sirens' alluring melodies and to Aristotle's philosophical reflections on the ethics of desire versus reason-based action, this internal conflict has fascinated civilizations.
Recent neuroscience and psychology research shows that our biological composition influences our impulses. Our brains respond to rewards and how self-control works. According to research, our brain's desire for happiness frequently smashes the perseverance required to achieve long-term goals.
This never-ending conflict unfolds within each of us. Our appetites, powered by genetic instincts and cultural conditioning, are like the loud merchants at the market, calling out offers of sugary delights and transitory entertainment. They are formidable forces, offering delight with each transient purchase.
The will quotient serves as the charioteer in this concealed battle. The aspect of ourselves that assesses the intrinsic value of our desires and chooses the trajectory of our journey drives the will to choose what is appropriate. However, this charioteer, particularly at first, is frequently outmatched. The horses of desire are strong and well-trained, and they are used to leading us to Preya's attraction.
However, as a competent charioteer can control misbehaving horses, you can also develop autonomy. Meditation could be a profound training platform. You could gain the ability to observe your desires without becoming entangled in them. By enhancing concentration, you can develop the cognitive endurance required to make deliberate decisions rather than impulsive responses.
Building the will quotient is not about renouncing everything or deprivation. It does not imply being a joyless person. Consider a world in which every delightful treat is marked "forbidden." This technique may work briefly, but it is unsustainable and eventually destructive.
Think of a masterful artist. They grasp the power of colors and brushes to create an aura to stimulate our creative senses. Similarly, a strong WQ lets us negotiate the world of desires with insight rather than restriction.
The key to developing a strong will quotient is to have a perceptive mind. We learn to distinguish between the passing highs of Preya and the deeper satisfaction of Shreya. Consider a lazy or postponing approach to work and relationships; it can have long-term consequences for your quality of life and leave your actual potential untapped.
AI-generated image of a person expressing strong willpower and focus on goals
Building WQ is like building muscle. We start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty and consistency of our exercises. Instead of promising never to eat another cookie, we should begin by fighting the desire for another. As our willpower grows, we may face larger difficulties, such as scheduling devoted study time even when social media calls.
A strong will is more than saying “no” to temptations. It opens a whole new world of possibilities. Here are some of the transforming abilities of a high WQ:
Resilience: Life offers surprises, and a strong will enables us to withstand storms, overcome obstacles, and progress toward our goals. Consider encountering a setback at work. With a weak will, despair can lead to giving up. However, a high WQ enables us to assess the situation, learn from setbacks, and get back on track.
Deep Connections: Relationships take effort, not simply dopamine bursts from short-term or digital engagements. A strong will enables us to put in the effort required to establish and maintain meaningful friendships. We may be there for loved ones, demonstrate compassion, and devote time to sustaining connections.
Inner Peace: Life is fast-paced, and slowing down is paramount for developing will quotient. Imagine being continually inundated with demands, each demanding immediate attention. This is a formula for anxiety and restlessness. A strong will instills a sensation of calm control. We learn to manage our desires, not the other way around. This liberates us from the tyranny of impulse and allows us to enjoy the peace of being the chariot of our decisions.
A strong Will Quotient is about unlocking our full potential. The will quotient allows us to navigate life by choice, not impulses. It allows us to become the architects of our lives, creating our fates with intention and purpose. The will quotient leads us to a journey of self-discovery and a life filled with meaning, resilience, and true satisfaction.
What are your challenges, and how do you overcome them? Let’s discuss this in the comments section and explore our true potential together…