5 Hindrances of Self-mastery [Archive.org URL]

One of the most important [Shaolin] teachings is the “five hindrances of self-mastery.” These are the core mental states that prevent us from seeing clearly, making smart decisions, achieving our goals and living a happier, more harmonious life.

1. Sensual desire. Sensual desire is intertwined pleasure, and it arises when we have a deep craving for something that stimulates one or more of our five senses (vision, hearing, smell, touch and taste). Sensual desires aren’t always bad. The idea is that any desire (healthy or unhealthy) can easily turn into an obsession or addiction that distracts us from our goals.
2. Ill will. Ill will is the opposite of sensual desire. It’s the mental state of not wanting something, because of a strong dislike or rejection towards it. It might involve an activity, situation or person. Instead of ignoring your ill wills, investigate the roots of it.
3. Sloth and torpor. A state of inaction leads to sloth and torpor. It’s a result of having low energy and a lack of motivation. Sloth and torpor can also come in the form of defeat, self-pity, thoughts of futility, complacency or even depression.
4. Restlessness. Restlessness is the result of an unsettled mind. This often happens to people who are constantly worried or anxious about the future, or who judge themselves (or others) for their actions. During times of restlessness, we become more vulnerable to whims and may act in ways that we later regret, thus fueling the hindrance even more.
5. Skeptical doubt. Skeptical doubt leads to uncontrollable hesitation and questioning. You might question your abilities (“Am I capable of doing this?” “What if I fail?”), or a mentor’s advice (“He’s not experienced enough.” “I know more than he does.”), or your decisions (“Am I doing the right thing?” What if something bad happens?”). Doubt can actually be your friend. It might exist as a sign that you need to take step back to reconsider your options, or it might indicate that something (e.g., a decision or given task) is a violation of your values. The key is to challenge your doubts. Ask yourself: Does the reasoning behind my doubt make sense? Is there logic to it? Or is it really just disconnecting me from my goals?