We can approach anything in two ways. One is inside out approach and the other is outside in approach and we wonder which one is better. The inside out approach seems better and more appropriate but that is not always the case. Both the approaches have their own benefits. While the inside out approach works well in most of the situations, there are times when we feel that we are not motivated enough to carry out certain tasks and in such cases, the inside out approach loses its significance as we no longer are able to use it. For example, if we want to finish a project, the inner drive and enthusiasm is inside out approach that helps us to finish given tasks but when we feel tired, lost or demotivated, which is quite often experienced in this pandemic, the outside in approach is something that we need to lookout for. We may benefit from giving ourselves some pep talk or a change of environment or buying something or treating ourselves with something and that can help the inner drive and motivate us to finish the task. Doing something outwardly is totally outside in approach but it works perfectly for us if we are lost. It is also helpful when waiting for inner zest to surface is not an option and it is rather quite damaging.
We can find the different approaches in everyday lives and see how they affect us. All the cultures around the world have festivals especially designed to keep our inner zest alive with this simple principle. When the nights are darker, longer and the weather is colder, there comes the biggest festivals of the year and that is apparent throughout the world. In India, it is Diwali which comes in the darkest time of the year and in the west, Christmas falls on the coldest and darkest time of the year and thus the festivities, the rituals, the food, socializing, community spirit, lights, decorations, celebrations all help to build the enthusiasm and ward off boredom and lethargy that comes along with the weather conditions and without these festivals the difficult time of the year can be quite daunting.
We can find different approaches in other fields of life as well. If we take example of Vastu Shastra or Feng Shui, we can understand how outside environment can affect our mind and how rearranging things outside can reset our mood, change perception and affect subconscious mind as well as our attitude and once we change from inside, the outside also start to change. Our subconscious affects our environment and our environment affects our subconscious mind so depending on what we change at the given time and our capacity, we can choose what approach suits the best. The inside and outside aspects are interconnected and often bidirectional.
Similarly, if any life goals are not met or we are not feeling motivated to do something, we can use the same technique to build our enthusiasm up and can motivate ourselves to get up and get working. If we want to start a new diet or exercise regimen, we can’t wait for inner motivation as our mind will quickly start giving us excuses and in such cases, an outside-in approach can work well. Getting yourself proper equipment, gadgets or attire can initiate the much needed health journey.
Sometimes in order to feel good we can also use outside in approach. For example, mental health which is an inside issue can be addressed by doing exercises and taking a good diet which is an outside approach. We can use exercise to feel happy inside. Exercise can secrete the happy hormones which can make you feel happy from inside. The inside and outside are quite interconnected and interchangeable and we must not give more importance to one approach.
Another example can be spiritual practices and rituals. Many people meditate to feel calm and peaceful but some people experience the same calmness in chanting, prayers and other rituals which are outside approaches and they both work perfectly. Many people worship idols and do rituals while others prefer to connect to formless higher self/divine and both approaches are perfect depending on what you need or what you prefer at the given time and also at what stage are you in your path as well as your personality type and your preferences. Each method has its own significance and they are designed for the same purpose. We always have a choice and choosing what is appropriate at the given circumstance and scenario is the best way forward.
Although the main purpose is always functioning through inner self and being driven by inner quest and drive and reach a state where we do not get affected by any external stimulus or conditions but until we reach the state, it is good to use outside in approach and work on inner self so that we can change our outer world. Once we change our inner world, our world will automatically change so it is wise to make a balance between both the approaches and use them as and when needed. So what do you think is the right approach? Do let me know.
Parul Rana 