It is only natural to feel emotionally and energetically drained when surrounded by negativity. People who constantly complain or criticise can deplete our inner energy and lower our “prana” — the life force that sustains us. In contrast, individuals with a positive disposition uplift us. They radiate warmth and optimism, qualities that make them naturally likeable and often deeply inspiring.
True success in life is not merely measured by financial wealth. One may be a millionaire or an industry leader, but what truly matters is the legacy one leaves behind — a legacy that inspires future generations to innovate, create, and live with purpose. Take, for instance, Steve Jobs — co-founder of Apple and one of the most iconic innovators of our time. His life story is not just about creating revolutionary technology, but about a mindset — one rooted in curiosity, creativity, and resilience.
Despite his eccentric habits, including experimenting with LSD and following a strict fruitarian diet, Jobs maintained a sharp, forward-thinking mind that propelled Apple to unimaginable heights.His vision continues to influence the tech world long after his passing. Jobs wasn’t perfect, but he embodied the power of positive action. Apple has continued to evolve, recently releasing the iPhone 16 — a testament to the enduring spark Jobs ignited. He proved that positively inclined individuals are capable of achieving the extraordinary. To them, the word “impossible” doesn’t exist. As His Holiness the Dalai Lama once said, “In order to carry a positive action, we must develop here a positive vision.”A person with such a vision is generous, productive, and constructive. They are not ego-driven or self-absorbed, but instead see their challenges as small compared to the larger suffering in the world.
Even when Steve Jobs faced a terminal illness like pancreatic cancer, his passion didn’t waver. He continued to innovate, inspire, and strive for excellence. His life, though marked by physical deterioration, was also filled with immense creativity and unwavering drive. Khalil Gibran aptly described the selfish and self-absorbed, saying, “Wisdom ceases to be wisdom when it becomes too proud to weep, too grave to laugh, and too selfish to seek other than itself.” Negativity, selfishness, and jealousy are detrimental to personal growth. We encounter such individuals in our lives — be it in families, workplaces, or social circles. They are quick to ask for help, but rarely offer it. In the long run, they lose the trust and respect of others. Positively inclined people, on the other hand, view money as a means, not an end. They live for a larger cause — one that includes serving society and uplifting others. This gives them inner peace and a sense of fulfilment that money alone cannot buy. Negativity, in contrast, leads only to dissatisfaction, strained relationships, and a hollow sense of existence. Creative and enthusiastic individuals are often deeply immersed in their passions — whether it’s technology, music, science, or art. This devotion becomes a form of meditation, bringing joy and meaning to their lives. Jobs led a remarkably simple life despite his wealth. Similarly, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, India’s beloved “Missile Man,” owned little material wealth, yet his vision and humility inspired an entire generation. Both men were spiritual in their own ways — Jobs drew from Zen philosophy and Indian meditation, while Kalam found solace in music and literature. Their lives remind us that success is as much about the spirit as it is about science. Truly productive individuals don’t wear masks.They are authentic — what you see is what you get. Sports legends like Kapil Dev and Virender Sehwag, for instance, were aggressive on the field but warm and genuine off it. They didn’t waste energy on gossip or criticism but channelled their focus into their craft. Another hallmark of such individuals is their refusal to wallow in self-pity. They don’t let others’ opinions define them.
Instead, they stay focused, take responsibility, and act with purpose. They step outside their comfort zones to help others, finding deep satisfaction in doing so. As Steve Jobs once said, “Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me. Going to bed at night and saying we’ve done something wonderful — that’s what matters to me.” That sentiment captures the essence of a life well-lived — one that goes beyond wealth to create meaning, impact, and inspiration.
(The writer is the CEO of Chhattisgarh East Railway Ltd. and Chhattisgarh East West Railway Ltd. He is also a faculty member of the Art of Living. Views are personal)
