Peace to you!

After attending Oxford and Harvard and working in investment banking, I had a spiritual experience that led me to leave the path of success to live in monasteries for over 7 years.

Through this newsletter, I share practical wisdom from my experience in the monastery. I hope it’s fruitful for your journey!

Each week, the Monk Mindset newsletter comes with:

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 3
Be More Human at Work: Work & Study

Reflection on the Monk Mindset and Quote

Growing up I’d largely been spared the responsibility of cleaning and chores. So, naturally I avoided doing them in college and beyond.

But during my first weeks in the monastery, I was assigned to clean the chapel. With a tiny mop, I stepped into the chapel. The glossy floor seemed to stretch forever. It was like being asked to clean St. Peter’s Basilica with a toothbrush. I remember grumbling to myself as I scrubbed, “Wouldn’t it be more efficient if we hired others to do this? Couldn’t my time be spent better elsewhere?” 

I ended up cleaning that chapel every week for two years along with countless toilets, floors, old junky rooms, and much more. My realization? I needed to do this. I came to discover that work is less about what you do and more about why and how you do it. 

Household tasks such as cleaning and cooking are fundamental human activities. In performing them, I came to see myself mystically united with others who share the same burdens and joys. In manual labor, there can be a temptation to frustration and angst because we don’t want to work. However, performing manual tasks with serenity of heart and patience is actually incredible spiritual training. 

Work can be where meditation ceases to be something you do and starts becoming something you live. By performing tasks and chores calmly and well, I can also demonstrate love and respect for myself, others, and even God. 

Put It Into Practice This Week

Where do you struggle most with frustration or angst in your work? 

What is one thing you can do differently to bring more peace, calm, and love into those situations?

Wishing you abundant peace this week,

John

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