Hi, all!
I’m back! It’s been how long? (sorry!) But I’ve got a good one for you! This week’s review is going to be on Think Like A Monk, by Jay Shetty.
Think Like A Monk provides readers with so much insightful advice that I’ll never forget. I’m super happy I found this book and can share my thoughts on it here.
Shetty was a monk for three years, learning profound lessons during his time at an ashram in India. Taking what he learnt, Shetty has since adopted the corresponding values and applied them to his everyday life. He thus, shares them, including useful tips on how people are able to live meaningfully.
An overarching theme Shetty discusses throughout encompasses achieving one’s “dharma” – establishing what you are skilled at, then finding a way to harness it and serve others.
Another specific takeaway for me is more effectively using negative emotions, which obviously are inevitable. This incorporates being anxious regarding future, potentially unpleasant events, but in experiencing these emotions, going through a careful analysis and ensuring you take the proper measures to, depending on the situation, avoid possible unfavourable outcomes, or make the best of them.
Essentially, channel the negativity and turn it into productivity.
For example, he presents an illustration involving complaining. Say, you don’t like that your partner consistently comes home late from work. It won’t help long-term if you complain to friends about the issue even though, for some, expressing this to them may offer some temporary relief. Rather, directly bring the concern up with your partner. Conflict could arise, but you’re taking necessary steps to resolve it.
Overall, Think Like A Monk is so inspiring. The suggestions Shetty make are hard-hitting and, more importantly, realistically achievable. I have the utmost appreciation for his work. Please, please read this novel!