Inside us, there is the “present me,” which refers to the person as we are right now, with our needs, cravings, comforts, and indulgences. The “potential me” refers to the talents and virtues that are inherent within us and could be developed through discipline and training.

If we cater to the “present me” at the expense of the “future me,” we underutilize our potential and may eventually embark on a path of self-destruction. On the other hand, if we solely focus on the “future me” and neglect the legitimate needs of the present, we may end up suffocating ourselves. Finding the balance between the two is the art of self-actualization.

(Inspired by Bhagavad-gita 03.39)

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The tension between the present me & the potential me