3.20 The one key to satisfaction

When a company collapses—or when a person implodes—

is there a common denominator behind it all?

The triggers may differ, but one pattern runs deep:

the focus shifts from contributing to consuming.

The way out is to be selfless.

However, selfless doesn’t mean less for the self—

it means thinking less about the self.

When we live, work, or love, we often start doing profit–loss calculations:

“Is what I’m getting worth what I’m giving?”

Such thinking is natural, but if that’s all everyone thinks

—customers and providers, parents and children—

society itself begins to crumble.

The Bhagavad Gita (3.20) speaks of loka-saṅgraha—working for the world’s welfare.

It urges us to play our part without obsessing over what we’re getting out of it.

When we shift our focus from consuming to contributing,

our relationships deepen,

our work becomes more fulfilling,

and our life gains greater meaning.

Because in a world where everyone strives to contribute,

everyone truly thrives.