Think Like a Monk: Live a Calm, Purposeful, and Fulfilled Life
“Swap ‘Why is this happening to me?’ to ‘What is this trying to teach me?’. It will change everything.” – Jay Shetty
This book teaches us how to live a happier, more meaningful life by learning from monks who have mastered calm, purpose, and clarity. Jay Shetty combines inspiring lessons with practical strategies that, if applied consistently, can help you stay aligned, reduce stress, and lead a life full of purpose.
Three core steps to transform your life:
Embrace who you really are – Stop seeking approval and validation from others.
Decide what you want – Take deliberate actions to move toward your goals.
Lead by example – Share your gifts and make a positive impact in the world.
Key strategies to apply daily:
1. Stay true to yourself
Avoid being overwhelmed by external influences. By finding stillness and reflecting inward, you can make decisions aligned with your values rather than following social pressures.
2. Transform negativity
Challenges and negative experiences are opportunities for growth. Learn from them, let go of self-pity, and consciously rise above recurring negative patterns.
3. Understand and overcome fear
Fear often comes from a desire to control outcomes. Let go of what you cannot control, stay aware of obstacles, and take proactive steps to move forward. Fear diminishes when you release the need for control.
4. Discover your purpose
Identify your passions and talents. When you pursue what truly matters to you, you not only enrich your own life but also contribute positively to others.
5. Improve routines and habits
Small, consistent actions build a better life. Start simple, stay consistent, and gradually create routines that support your goals.
6. Master your mind
Cultivate inner calm to support your mental and emotional wellbeing. Find a mental space to recharge, reflect, and regain clarity.
7. Build healthy self-esteem
Recognize your worth and rise above ego-driven thoughts. Self-respect and confidence are essential for happiness.
8. Embrace gratitude
Begin and end each day with appreciation. Gratitude shifts your perspective and nurtures a positive mindset.
9. Treasure relationships
Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow.
10. Be of service
Compassion and helping others elevate your life. The act of giving enriches both your life and the lives of those you touch.
11. Practice mindfulness
Slowing down and being present helps you enjoy life’s small moments, reduces stress, and increases awareness of yourself and your surroundings.
12. Learn from mistakes
Mistakes are opportunities for growth. Embrace them with compassion, reflect, and adjust your approach to improve outcomes.
13. Aim for alignment, not achievement alone
Focus on doing the right things for the right reasons. True fulfillment comes from aligning actions with values, not simply chasing accomplishments.
Conclusion:
By adopting the mindset of a monk, you can cultivate inner peace, clarity, and purpose. This book shows that happiness is not about external success—it’s about understanding who you are, making decisions aligned with your values, and living a life of meaning and service.