You may recall the Greek story about Sisyphus? As punishment for wrongdoing, Zeus condemned him to roll an enormous boulder up a hill, only for it to roll down every time it neared the top. This action would be repeated for eternity.
I remember hearing this story when I was in college, and my professor introduced us to French philosopher Albert Camus, who said, “I imagine Sisyphus happy.”
Happy? How could anyone be happy pushing a large rock up a hill, only to watch it roll back down and start all over again for eternity? I was baffled by this idea that Sisyphus could be happy under those circumstances and I thought about this for years.
I don’t know about you, but I feel like many of us have been rolling a massive rock up a hill these past few years–we get up and do the same routine every day, only to start all over again the next day. That routine and burden can be challenging, especially if our rock is so enormous it feels impossible to overcome.
My interpretation of Albert Camus’ quote is that we all have a rock to push. The struggle, the push of the rock is what we have in common with each other, and I believe we can find solace knowing that no matter who you meet or where you go, others have a burden of pushing their rock up a hill, too.
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
Now that you know everyone is pushing a rock up a hill, just like you, here are some things to keep in mind to make it much more manageable.
Know how big your rock is. Is my rock feeling really heavy? If so, I know it’s time to ask for help. And when my rock is light, it’s time to help others.
It’s okay not to be okay. Sometimes the burden of the rock is too much to bear. Whether you’re burdened by home, work, or school, it’s okay to have a hard time, but you must acknowledge it and ask for help.
Push your rock with a smile. Keep calm and push your rock. Push your rock with the hope and desire that you will get it to the top. Use this time to rest, reflect, and embrace the journey. You’ll get to the top with the right attitude. The Bamboo Farmers I know have a great attitude and make time for rest and reflection.
Stay in the moment with your rock. Sometimes, when you’re pushing your rock, you have to put blinders on and concentrate on your task. It’s crucial not to compare your rock to others’ because comparison is one of the most significant ways to kill your joy and get you off track.
If you use these tips, you will undoubtedly have an easier time pushing your rock up a hill–and you might even enjoy the process much more!
This post is based on a podcast episode by Greg Bell.
Listen below for the full episode: