We are continually in a state of tension because we don't know ourselves, our inner nature. We are continually trying to do things because we feel we ought to, even, though it might be contrary to our nature. There is a continual conflict between that which is and that which we want. We are always motivated to become something instead of just being.

Satyananda – Meditations from the Tantras - p. 14 - Yoga Publications Trust.