The Cup Theory
Sharing Your Energy to Empower Others
Have you ever felt that your energy is like a cup—sometimes full, sometimes half-full, sometimes nearly empty? Today, I want to share my thoughts on what I call the “Cup Theory” and how it can transform not only your life but also the lives of those around you.
A Reservoir of Energy
We all carry an inner reservoir of energy. There are days when our cup is overflowing with passion, strength, and drive. On other days, we might feel drained or overwhelmed. The Cup Theory reminds us that when we have an abundance of energy, it’s not just for our own benefit—it’s also an opportunity to help others.
A Day of Self-Development
Yesterday was one of those days for me—a day where I pushed my limits and experienced significant personal growth. I challenged myself with a long run, something I never thought possible, and even started my first video. By being honest with myself and embracing these challenges, I ended the day feeling empowered and proud.
That surge of energy wasn’t just for me. It became a catalyst for giving back. Later that night, I spent time offering advice to a friend from the UK who was at a crossroads about moving out of his house. This simple act of sharing my insights not only reinforced my own progress but also helped someone else on their journey.
The Moment That Changed Everything
In the early hours of the morning, a moment arose that truly put the Cup Theory into practice. In the communal area of my hostel, I heard a young woman in distress—she had been sick and was suffering through a relentless bout of vomiting. In that vulnerable moment, I had a choice: to remain passive or to act on the strength I had built during my day.
I chose to act. I got up, took a short walk, and purchased a small “goodie bag” of essentials—electrolyte drinks, vitamin supplements, and vitamin jelly. I knew these items wouldn’t cure her instantly, but they would help boost her immune system and hopefully bring her some comfort when she woke up.
The Power of Merits
This experience reminded me of a powerful lesson I learned during my time at a Buddhist monastery: life is about the merits we accumulate. Every positive action—every moment we choose kindness over indifference—is a good merit that adds up. While the challenges we face (like a bout of sickness or the struggle of self-doubt) may seem overwhelming, our capacity to contribute positively to the world is boundless when we commit to doing good.
Every time we share our energy, whether through advice, support, or a kind gesture, we’re not only filling someone else’s cup—we’re also enriching our own lives. When our cup is full, why not pour a little into the lives of others?
Embrace Your Strength
I hope that my story inspires you to reflect on your own day. Consider the moments when you felt strong, fulfilled, and capable of making a difference. Next time you’re faced with someone in need, remember: you have the power to share that strength, no matter how small the gesture may seem.
Let’s commit to creating as many good merits as possible. Every act of kindness, every piece of advice, and every moment of genuine care contributes to a better, more compassionate world.
Take care, and remember to keep your cup full—so that when the opportunity arises, you have the strength to pour into others’ lives.
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. How do you keep your cup full?