When
we have the idea of self we want some reason for why we work on something. But
if you do not have the idea of self, you can remain silent and calm whether or
not you work on something.
You will not lose your composure. So to remain silent and calm is a kind of test we receive. If you can do it, it means you have no idea of self. If your life is based on the usual idea of self, what you do will not be successful in its true sense. There will be success in one way, but in another you are digging your own grave. So to work without the idea of self is a very, very important point. It is much more important than making a good decision. Even a good decision based on a one-sided idea of self will create difficulties for yourself and others.
Excerpt from Shunryu Suzuki lecture 65-12-11 as found on shunryusuzuki.com. Edited by DC