Verse 47 says “you have a choice over action alone, never over results, may you not be motivated by the results of action, may you not have an inclination towards non-action.”
Learning this verse has been incredibly liberating for me. I think a great fear in life has been not living up to my “full potential.” I was born with so many privileges and gifts, and the idea of wasting it all has always weighed heavily on my shoulders. It has paralyzed me into indecisive inaction, spending many wasted moments calculating what actions to take based on the expected results. I felt guilty and found it hard to act if I did not think my action would directly lead to a desired outcome.
Going forward, I don’t want to waste any more time thinking about all the “what ifs.” Instead I plan to focus on my immediate actions and enjoy the journey regardless of what comes. Because it has been so easy for me to hide, avoid, or run away in the past due to fear of failure, the part of the verse that emphasizes not having an inclination towards non-action has been particularly enlightening. I understand that no action is futile if it leads to inner growth. I want to act according to dharma and what I believe is right regardless of whether or not my desired outcome comes my way. I will do my part to the best of my ability and surrender the rest to Ishwara. I understand that everything in the universe has been so beautifully orchestrated by a greater divine will so that the very outcomes I receive are purposeful and intentional.