Kabir Das, a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, did not explicitly address modern concepts like time management. However, his verses and teachings often carry profound wisdom that can be interpreted and applied to various aspects of life, including time management. While Kabir’s poetry doesn’t directly discuss time management as we understand it today, his spiritual insights and philosophical perspectives can offer valuable lessons. Here’s a creative interpretation of what Kabir might say about time management:
- Live in the Present:Kabir emphasised the importance of being present in the moment. In terms of time management, this could mean focusing on the task at hand without getting overly anxious about the past or future. By fully engaging in the present, one can enhance productivity and the quality of work.
“Kaal kare so aaj kar, aaj kare so ab, pal mein pralay hoyegi, bahuri karega kab?”(Do today’s and tomorrow’s work now. If the moment is lost, how will the work be done?) - Avoid Procrastination:Kabir might advise against procrastination, encouraging individuals to take prompt action. Procrastination often leads to unnecessary stress and a backlog of tasks.
“Kal kare so aaj kar, aaj kare so ab, pal mein pralay hoyegi, bahuri karega kab?”(Do today’s and tomorrow’s work now. If the moment is lost, how will the work be done?) - Simplicity and Focus:Kabir often spoke about the simplicity of life. In time management, he might advocate for simple tasks, avoiding unnecessary complexity, and focusing on what truly matters.
“Ghat ghat mera saai, ghat antar ka mai, Ja ko sahib samjhe, so mai bhi saai.”(My Lord is within every heart, and I am the inner self. The one who understands this is my true master.) - Balancing Work and Inner Life:Kabir’s teachings often emphasise the importance of spiritual growth and inner reflection. Regarding time management, he might encourage individuals to balance their work responsibilities with time for self-care, reflection, and spiritual well-being.“Moko kahan dhoondhe re bande, main to tere paas mein, Na teerath mein, na moorat mein, na ekant niwas mein.”(Where are you searching for me, my friend? I am right within you, not in pilgrimage, idols, or solitary retreats.)While these interpretations are creative and speculative, Kabir Das’s timeless wisdom can offer insights into living a balanced and purposeful life, which includes adequate time management.
Why does the Kabir Learning Foundation take Inspiration from the mystic saint Kabir Das in Organisational development programmes and Executive Coaching? How does it help to drive efficiency, effectiveness and productivity?
Ultimately for any leader, if the business objectives and tasks are clearly understood, it helps in building a positive change in the ecosystem. And you get these inputs from mystics. We believe in intersectional learning, where poetry can help to build business wisdom.
Kabir Das, a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, left a legacy of spiritual wisdom and social commentary. His teachings continue to resonate with people, and here are three great things about Kabir Das that hold relevance for the modern world:
Universal Spirituality and Unity.
Kabir’s poetry transcends religious boundaries and emphasises the universality of spirituality. In a world marked by diverse religious beliefs, Kabir’s teachings promote the idea that spirituality’s essence is beyond any particular faith’s confines. This perspective encourages tolerance, understanding, and unity among people of different religious backgrounds in the modern, multicultural world.
“Dheere dheere re mana, dheere sab kuch hoye. Mali seenche sau ghada, ritu aaye phal hoye.”(Slowly, O mind, everything in its own pace happens. The gardener may water with a hundred pots, but the fruit arrives only in its season.)
Simplicity and Equality:
Kabir often spoke against rituals, dogmas, and unnecessary complexities in religious practices. His emphasis on simplicity, humility, and equality is relevant in a world that sometimes grapples with materialism, social hierarchies, and complex structures. Kabir’s teachings advocate for a simple and compassionate way of life that values the inherent dignity of every individual.
“Pothi padh padh jag mua, pandit bhaya na koi. Dhai aakhar prem ke, padhe so pandit hoi.”(Reading books, people died, none became any wiser. One who reads the word of Love only becomes wiser.)
Social Justice and Compassion:
Kabir’s verses often addressed social justice, discrimination, and the importance of compassion. His messages on equality and love for all resonate strongly in the modern world, where societies strive for inclusivity and justice. Kabir’s teachings inspire individuals to engage in acts of kindness, empathy, and social responsibility.
“Bura jo dekhan main chala, bura na milya koye. Jo dil khoja aapna, mujhse bura na koye.”(I searched for the wrong person, but I did not find anyone. When I searched within myself, no one was worse than me.)
Even in the AI and ML world, Kabir Das’s teachings offer timeless wisdom that remains relevant today. His emphasis on universal spirituality, simplicity, equality, social justice, and compassion can guide individuals and communities towards a more harmonious and humane existence. All that certainly helps to manage your time and energy very well.