Finding Means in Chaos
Finding Means in Chaos
Aruba Shehzad
Articles

In the midst of chaos, there is also an opportunity, as Sun Tzu once said. This quote suggests that in chaotic circumstances or maelstrom situations, there lies a hidden chance for growth, turning points, or success. Albert Einstein similarly commented, “Failure is success in progress.”

To find means in chaos, one requires adaptability, leading to new solutions and innovations by recognizing how one’s mind orders and sequences thoughts amidst uncertainty. Suppose a person is contemplating how to overcome unhappiness, loneliness, or chaotic surroundings, where distractions and distress abound.

It has been observed that this state can spark purpose and means, realizing it’s not the end but the beginning. Paulo Coelho once said, “Life is a series of challenges, and each one is an opportunity for growth.”

Peace is not the absence of chaos or conflict but finding oneself amidst turmoil and remaining calm during unrest. Throughout history, we have witnessed countless examples, such as Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, who realized chaos and hardship could catalyze growth and transformation.

Babar was born in Andijan, Fergana Valley, and became the king of Fergana at 12. However, he faced rebellion and lost control of the region; he conquered Samarkand but lost it too. After several attempts to regain control, he was defeated by Uzbek prince Muhammad Shaybani. Babar then turned to India, formed alliances with the Safavid and Ottoman Empires, and defeated Sultan Ibrahim Lodhi in 1526 at the First Battle of Panipat. This victory marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire, which ruled the subcontinent for almost 300 years.

Babur’s story proves that failures can serve as pillars to success. It shows that adversity can lead to possibilities; Babur’s defeat led him to turn to India. Adoptability, resilience, and perseverance can lead to success.

Many of us believe that after unpredictable situations, we find peace in a crowded place and crave to go home to relive and think that’s it. However, if we try to find means in that crowded, uncertain place, we must understand it, give meaning to it, and bring “why” to every sentence before reacting.

The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek, as Joseph Campbell said. Let yourself own the fear, find the cave, and write a new ending.

The World War II era and its aftermath demonstrate how society can rebuild, innovate, and find new paths after large-scale destruction and war disorders. World War II brought extraordinary chaos but also led to significant advancements in technology, international communication, and cooperation.

In a world where uncertainty and chaos reign supreme, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, in these moments of chaos, we must discover our greatest opportunities for growth and transformation.

Victor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, wrote meaningful words in his book “Man’s Search for Meaning” about existential frustration, logotherapy, and paradox intentioning. Logotherapy is built on three principles:

  1. Life has meaning.
  2. meaning is unique
  3. meaning can be found.

Dr. Joseph Murphy’s “The Power of Your Subconscious Mind” suggests discovering means in chaos by cultivating a positive mindset, using affirmations, and visualizing desired outcomes.

Our subconscious mind plays a significant role in identifying goals, resilience, and adaptability. It processes vast data, fosters creativity, and accesses innovative ideas.

There is a famous Chinese curse: “May you find what you’re looking for.” Isn’t it like a blessing? Imagine finding what you’ve looked for; do you relax now? Is that all that means to you? We search for more, exploring possibilities and considering choices.

To find purpose in difficulties, acknowledge chaos, accept adaptability and resilience,

and endorse chaos as an inherent part of life. By embracing uncertainty, we re-evaluate priorities and values.

Finding means in chaos is not passive; it’s a courageous charge. Chaos is not the end; it’s a new beginning. One must embrace it and strive to find means in chaos.

“Nothing can be gained without losing; even heavens demand death.” -The Eagle