The Art of Being Unflappable
What the Bhagavad Gita teaches about staying steady in a shaky world.
The Bhagavad Gita is one of the world’s most revered scriptures. It is a powerful guide to handling life with a calm mind and a clear intellect, especially during times of stress, change, or emotional upheaval.
Unlike any other scripture, the Gita opens on a battlefield.
Arjuna, a master archer and the greatest warrior of his time, stands ready for battle. For thirteen years, he and his brothers have prepared for war. The kingdom they once ruled was usurped by their cousin, and they were exiled.
But just before the battle begins, Arjuna asks Krishna, his charioteer and friend, to place the chariot between the two armies so he can see who he must face.
What he sees undoes him.
Across the field are not enemies, but his own cousins, teachers, elders, and friends. His composure collapses. His bow slips from his hands. His body trembles — and he refuses to fight.
Witnessing Arjuna’s agitation, Krishna remains silent. He knows there is no point in speaking when someone is emotionally unhinged. Krishna doesn’t say a word until Arjuna surrenders to Him for guidance in Chapter II, Verse 7.
Arjuna’s breakdown is not unique. It’s human.
We remain composed while life is in our favour. But when it turns — when plans fall apart, when relationships fail, when there’s loss or uncertainty of any kind — our composure goes with it.
We forget to pause. We react and take things personally. We become overwhelmed, confused, and unable to act with clarity.
This is where the Gita becomes invaluable as a guide to daily living with calm, clarity, and composure.
What is Unflappability?
Being unflappable is the highest art of living.
It’s the ability to witness your mind and the world with love and attention, without getting emotionally entangled.
Most people do the opposite. They get involved with the hope of satisfaction, only to lose themselves and whatever peace they had.
