The essential factor for self-realization is extreme devotion.
In the Bhagavad Gita it is said, puruäa sa pară părtha bhaktya labhasvananyaya
The eternal Supreme person is realized through unflinching devotion.
What is devotion? Devotion is the foundation for spiritual progress. bhakti parănurakti íävare – devotion can be obtained by unwavering attachment to the Lord. People are attached to the objects of the senses but one should practice perceiving the presence of god in all objects. This is the real attachment to the lord or true devotion. Implicit faith in the words of the Master is the foremost requirement for devotion. Inquiry into the nature of one’s owns self is another aspect of devotion. Emotion is not devotion. Devotion brings proper understanding and stability. Devotion is superior to karma (action) and jnana (knowledge) as devotion brings constant association with the Supreme self.
If one wants liberation and realization, then one must try to love God from the core of the heart. God is life and God is breath. During every breath one must maintain deep devotion to God
Stitha Prajna Oct 2004