Once we have been exposed to these teachings, we have a choice: to make an effort to train our mind in a productive way, or to let our mind train itself. If we choose the second, default, option, our only guide will be our mind’s constant and malicious adviser, self-importance.

As usual, the consciousness changes to meet the task. People in the midst of career consolidation often develop a more individualistic mindset: I am the captain of my own ship, the master of my own destiny. They become better at self-control, at governing their emotions. They possess a greater ability to go against the crowd. They are able to say