Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day

Shetty, host of the On Purpose podcast and a former Vedic monk, debuts with a peppy and persuasive work that guides readers through a process of personal growth by “training our minds to focus on how to react, respond, and commit to what we want in life.” Shetty covers a wide range of topics, including diffusing fear, reconsidering career direction, and improving relationships. The common thread of his suggestions is his “spot, stop, and swap” method: spot the issue, stop to consider it, and swap in a new approach. He also recommends a variety of meditative techniques and offers stories from his time in the ashram, and is at his most inspiring when focusing on practical matters. For instance, his chapter on routine offers advice for more structured living, such as establishing a morning regimen and creating “found time” (for gratitude, meditation, and exercise) to help bring more “intentionality” into one’s day. Though Shetty draws on the Vedas and uses some Sanskrit terminology, his approach is nonsectarian and will appeal to anyone who is, at minimum, open to trying meditation. Shetty’s take on Hindu spirituality delivers practical wisdom for anyone looking to create better daily habits. [em](Sept.) [/em]