A large number of people joining the various spiritual institutions like the Ramakrishna Ashram, the order of Samarth Ramdas at Sajjangad in Maharashtra and many others are persons of high academic achievement. For many intellectuals however there are many initial problems and mental hurdles to be overcome before he becomes a seeker. The first hurdle is the misconception that one has to renounce the world and be a Sanyasi for taking up the spiritual path. The second hurdle is the fear that spiritual exercises would divert the mind from the duties of the office and impede success. This is also not correct.
Spiritual exercises instill a discipline into one s person, remove fear and make one more efficient.
In fact, many yoga and meditation techniques have been adapted for pacifying the mind and instilling a positive approach to life. Many executives pay high fees to attend such courses and workshops where these techniques are taught and find then beneficial. Even big commercial companies send their executives to such courses. The philosophy of the Gita goes much beyond that. The Third hurdle is the mental impediment about the availability of time.