How Buddha's Story Teaches Us to Maximize Resource Utilization at Home and Work

Resource Utilization:

A key factor that adds value to performance is the complete utilization of resources. A powerful illustration is a story I read about Buddha and his principle of using available resources to the fullest extent possible. I'm sure you will find it interesting!

Buddha, one day, was in deep thought about worldly activities and ways of instilling goodness in humans. The following is the text of a conversation between him and his disciple.

One of his disciples approached him and humbly said, "Oh, my teacher! While you are so concerned about the world and others, why don't you look into the welfare and needs of your own disciples as well."

Buddha replied, "OK... Tell me how I can help you."

The disciple continued, "Master! My attire is worn out and beyond decency to wear. Can I get a new one, please."

Buddha found the robe indeed in bad condition and asked the storekeeper to provide the disciple with a new robe to wear. The disciple thanked Buddha and retired to his room.

Although he met his disciple's requirement, Buddha was not entirely content with his decision. A while later, he realized what he should have asked the disciple. He went to his disciple's place and asked, "Is your new attire comfortable? Do you need anything more?"

The disciple replied, "Thank you, my Master. The attire is indeed very comfortable. I need nothing more."

Buddha inquired, "Having received the new one, what did you do with your old attire?"

The disciple responded, "I am using it as my bedspread."

Buddha then asked, "What about your old bedspread?"

The disciple explained, "No, Master. I am using my old bedspread as my window curtain."

Buddha further asked, "What about your old curtain?"

The disciple replied, "I am using it to handle hot utensils in the kitchen."

Buddha continued, "Can you tell me what they did with the old cloth used in the kitchen?"

The disciple said, "They are being used to wash the floor."

Buddha smiled in contentment and left for his room.

If not to this degree of utilization, can we at least attempt to find the best use of all our resources - at home and at the office..?!?!

VENKAT

I hope all of us use the resources available to us to the fullest extent. Remember, the earth and other resources are not an inheritance from our ancestors but a loan from our children!!!

Cheers,
Asawari

Hi Archna,

Contentment matrix differs according to the roles that one plays. In the given story, the Monk practiced contentment, which is a must-criteria for a Monk.

In our life, we play many roles: as a son, as a parent, as a spouse, as a citizen, as a co-passenger, as a colleague, as a friend, as a boss, as a subordinate, as a student, as a teacher, etc. Even religious doctrines define that Dharma is to do one's duty aptly. To play one's role effectively is to practice and do what that role warrants. If one could do it aptly, he/she is bound to feel contented. This applies to professional life too.

The other form of contention, to feel satisfied with whatever one has or with whatever that comes in the way, is not for any ambitious person. I prefer to shun away from such an attitude, as it breeds inaction. When compared to finding peace with oneself, attaining contentment is not so difficult.

Just a thought to share...

Thanks for your comments. Regards, Venkat

Hi,

This is a very practical need in our country. Managers responsible for the replacement of resources should ensure that unused assets are utilized by the economically deprived segment. After all, we are a population of one billion.

Pierson