Mind Your Own Business

It's tough enough trying to create a life of serenity when dealing with our own mental tendencies, issues, real-life problems, habits, and the contradictions and complexities of life. But when we feel compelled to deal with other people's issues, our goal of becoming more peaceful becomes all but impossible.
How often do we find ourselves saying things like, "I wouldn't do that if I were her," or "I can't believe he did that," or "What is she thinking about?" How often are we frustrated, bothered, annoyed, or concerned about things that we not only cannot control or be of actual help with, but are also none of your business?
This is not a prescription to avoid being of help to people. Rather, it's about knowing when to help and when to leave something alone. We can be the type of person who would jump in and try to solve a problem without being asked. Not only did our efforts prove fruitless, they were also almost always unappreciated, and sometimes even resented. When recovering from our need to be overly involved, our life can become much more simpler. And, now that we're not butting in where we're not wanted, we are far more available to be of help when we are asked or truly needed.
Minding our own business goes far beyond simply avoiding the temptation to try to solve other people's problems. It also includes eavesdropping, gossiping, talking behind other people's backs, and analyzing or trying to figure our other people. One of the major reasons most of us focus on the shortcomings or problems of others is to avoid looking at ourselves.
When we catch ourselves involved where we really don't belong, congratulate ourselves for having the humility and wisdom to back off. In no time at all, we'll free up tons of extra energy to focus our attention where it's truly relevant or needed.