Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese Zen master, wrote and spoke widely about mindfulness in everyday life, including at work. He often encouraged people to ask what success really means and whether chasing it is making them happy.
A question worth asking
Many people chase success without stopping to ask what they truly want. Thich Nhat Hanh invited people to reflect: Is this bringing me peace and joy? Is it helping others?
Mindfulness isn’t only a productivity tool
He cautioned against using mindfulness only to get more done. Mindfulness, he taught, is about being present and caring for yourself and others.
Bringing mindfulness to work
He suggested simple practices, like pausing to breathe when the phone rings, or walking mindfully between meetings. These small moments can bring calm into a busy day.
When we cover pain with things
He spoke about how people sometimes try to cover difficult feelings by consuming more. Noticing this pattern gently, without judgement, can help us find other ways to care for ourselves.
A treat is still allowed
This isn’t about rejecting comfort or enjoyment. It’s about noticing what truly nourishes you.
How little is enough
Next time your phone rings, take one calm breath before answering.
For more, read Some simple rules to maintain a conscious lifestyle.
For a quiet place to write your way through this season, you’ll find a guided journal on the Guides page.