12 Essential Rules to Live More Like a Zen Monk

“We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.” - Thich Nhat Hanh

I’m not a Zen monk, nor will I ever become one. However, I find great inspiration in the way they try to live their lives: the simplicity of their lives, the concentration and mindfulness of every activity, the calm and peace they find in their days.

You probably don’t want to become a Zen monk either, but you can live your life in a more Zen-like manner by following a few simple rules.

Why live more like a Zen monk? Because who among us can’t use a little more concentration, tranquility, and mindfulness in our lives? Because Zen monks for hundreds of years have devoted their lives to being present in everything they do, to being dedicated and to serving others. Because it serves as an example for our lives, and whether we ever really reach that ideal is not the point.

One of my favorite Zen monks, Thich Nhat Hanh, simplified the rules in just a few words: “Smile, breathe and go slowly.” It doesn’t get any better than that.

However, for those who would like a little more detail, I thought I’d share some of the things I’ve discovered to work very well in my experiments with Zen-like living. I am no Zen master … I am not even a Zen Buddhist. However, I’ve found that there are certain principles that can be applied to any life, no matter what your religious beliefs or what your standard of living.

“Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual everyday routine.” - Shunryu Suzuki

Do one thing at a time. This rule (and some of the others that follow) will be familiar to long-time Zen Habits readers. It’s part of my philosophy, and it’s also a part of the life of a Zen monk: single-task, don’t multi-task. When you’re pouring water, just pour water. When you’re eating, just eat. When you’re bathing, just bathe. Don’t try to knock off a few tasks while eating or bathing. Zen proverb: “When walking, walk. When eating, eat.”
Do it slowly and deliberately. You can do one task at a time, but also rush that task. Instead, take your time, and move slowly. Make your actions deliberate, not rushed and random. It takes practice, but it helps you focus on the task.
Do it completely. Put your mind completely on the task. Don’t move on to the next task until you’re finished. If, for some reason, you have no choice but to move on to something else, try to at least put away the unfinished task and clean up after yourself. If you prepare a sandwich, don’t start eating it until you’ve put away the stuff you used to prepare it, wiped down the counter, and washed the dishes used for preparation. Then you’re done with that task, and can focus more completely on the next task.
Do less. A Zen monk doesn’t lead a lazy life: he wakes early and has a day filled with work. However, he doesn’t have an unending task list either — there are certain things he’s going to do today, an no more. If you do less, you can do those things more slowly, more completely and with more concentration. If you fill your day with tasks, you will be rushing from one thing to the next without stopping to think about what you do.
Put space between things. Related to the “Do less” rule, but it’s a way of managing your schedule so that you always have time to complete each task. Don’t schedule things close together — instead, leave room between things on your schedule. That gives you a more relaxed schedule, and leaves space in case one task takes longer than you planned.
Develop rituals. Zen monks have rituals for many things they do, from eating to cleaning to meditation. Ritual gives something a sense of importance — if it’s important enough to have a ritual, it’s important enough to be given your entire attention, and to be done slowly and correctly. You don’t have to learn the Zen monk rituals — you can create your own, for the preparation of food, for eating, for cleaning, for what you do before you start your work, for what you do when you wake up and before you go to bed, for what you do just before exercise. Anything you want, really.
Designate time for certain things. There are certain times in the day of a Zen monk designated for certain activities. A time for for bathing, a time for work, a time for cleaning, a time for eating. This ensures that those things get done regularly. You can designate time for your own activities, whether that be work or cleaning or exercise or quiet contemplation. If it’s important enough to do regularly, consider designating a time for it.

Devote time to sitting. In the life of a Zen monk, sitting meditation (zazen) is one of the most important parts of his day. Each day, there is time designated just for sitting. This meditation is really practice for learning to be present. You can devote time for sitting meditation, or do what I do: I use running as a way to practice being in the moment. You could use any activity in the same way, as long as you do it regularly and practice being present.
Smile and serve others. Zen monks spend part of their day in service to others, whether that be other monks in the monastery or people on the outside world. It teaches them humility, and ensures that their lives are not just selfish, but devoted to others. If you’re a parent, it’s likely you already spend at least some time in service to others in your household, and non-parents may already do this too. Similarly, smiling and being kind to others can be a great way to improve the lives of those around you. Also consider volunteering for charity work.
Make cleaning and cooking become meditation. Aside from the zazen mentioned above, cooking and cleaning are to of the most exalted parts of a Zen monk’s day. They are both great ways to practice mindfulness, and can be great rituals performed each day. If cooking and cleaning seem like boring chores to you, try doing them as a form of meditation. Put your entire mind into those tasks, concentrate, and do them slowly and completely. It could change your entire day (as well as leave you with a cleaner house).
Think about what is necessary. There is little in a Zen monk’s life that isn’t necessary. He doesn’t have a closet full of shoes, or the latest in trendy clothes. He doesn’t have a refrigerator and cabinets full of junk food. He doesn’t have the latest gadgets, cars, televisions, or iPod. He has basic clothing, basic shelter, basic utensils, basic tools, and the most basic food (they eat simple, vegetarian meals consisting usually of rice, miso soup, vegetables, and pickled vegetables). Now, I’m not saying you should live exactly like a Zen monk — I certainly don’t. But it does serve as a reminder that there is much in our lives that aren’t necessary, and it can be useful to give some thought about what we really need, and whether it is important to have all the stuff we have that’s not necessary.
Live simply. The corollary of Rule 11 is that if something isn’t necessary, you can probably live without it. And so to live simply is to rid your life of as many of the unnecessary and unessential things as you can, to make room for the essential. Now, what is essential will be different to each person. For me, my family, my writing, my running and my reading are essential. To others, yoga and spending time with close friends might be essential. For others it will be nursing and volunteering and going to church and collecting comic books. There is no law saying what should be essential for you — but you should consider what is most important to your life, and make room for that by eliminating the other less essential things in your life.

“Before enlightenment chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood and carry water.” - Wu Li

If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us, StumbleUpon or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)

12 Essential Rules to Live More Like a Zen Monk

“We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.” - Thich Nhat Hanh

You probably don’t want to become a Zen monk either, but you can live your life in a more Zen-like manner by following a few simple rules.

One of my favorite Zen monks, Thich Nhat Hanh, simplified the rules in just a few words: “Smile, breathe and go slowly.” It doesn’t get any better than that.

“Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual everyday routine.” - Shunryu Suzuki

Do one thing at a time. This rule (and some of the others that follow) will be familiar to long-time Zen Habits readers. It’s part of my philosophy, and it’s also a part of the life of a Zen monk: single-task, don’t multi-task. When you’re pouring water, just pour water. When you’re eating, just eat. When you’re bathing, just bathe. Don’t try to knock off a few tasks while eating or bathing. Zen proverb: “When walking, walk. When eating, eat.”
Do it slowly and deliberately. You can do one task at a time, but also rush that task. Instead, take your time, and move slowly. Make your actions deliberate, not rushed and random. It takes practice, but it helps you focus on the task.
Do it completely. Put your mind completely on the task. Don’t move on to the next task until you’re finished. If, for some reason, you have no choice but to move on to something else, try to at least put away the unfinished task and clean up after yourself. If you prepare a sandwich, don’t start eating it until you’ve put away the stuff you used to prepare it, wiped down the counter, and washed the dishes used for preparation. Then you’re done with that task, and can focus more completely on the next task.
Do less. A Zen monk doesn’t lead a lazy life: he wakes early and has a day filled with work. However, he doesn’t have an unending task list either — there are certain things he’s going to do today, an no more. If you do less, you can do those things more slowly, more completely and with more concentration. If you fill your day with tasks, you will be rushing from one thing to the next without stopping to think about what you do.
Put space between things. Related to the “Do less” rule, but it’s a way of managing your schedule so that you always have time to complete each task. Don’t schedule things close together — instead, leave room between things on your schedule. That gives you a more relaxed schedule, and leaves space in case one task takes longer than you planned.
Develop rituals. Zen monks have rituals for many things they do, from eating to cleaning to meditation. Ritual gives something a sense of importance — if it’s important enough to have a ritual, it’s important enough to be given your entire attention, and to be done slowly and correctly. You don’t have to learn the Zen monk rituals — you can create your own, for the preparation of food, for eating, for cleaning, for what you do before you start your work, for what you do when you wake up and before you go to bed, for what you do just before exercise. Anything you want, really.
Designate time for certain things. There are certain times in the day of a Zen monk designated for certain activities. A time for for bathing, a time for work, a time for cleaning, a time for eating. This ensures that those things get done regularly. You can designate time for your own activities, whether that be work or cleaning or exercise or quiet contemplation. If it’s important enough to do regularly, consider designating a time for it.

Devote time to sitting. In the life of a Zen monk, sitting meditation (zazen) is one of the most important parts of his day. Each day, there is time designated just for sitting. This meditation is really practice for learning to be present. You can devote time for sitting meditation, or do what I do: I use running as a way to practice being in the moment. You could use any activity in the same way, as long as you do it regularly and practice being present.
Smile and serve others. Zen monks spend part of their day in service to others, whether that be other monks in the monastery or people on the outside world. It teaches them humility, and ensures that their lives are not just selfish, but devoted to others. If you’re a parent, it’s likely you already spend at least some time in service to others in your household, and non-parents may already do this too. Similarly, smiling and being kind to others can be a great way to improve the lives of those around you. Also consider volunteering for charity work.
Make cleaning and cooking become meditation. Aside from the zazen mentioned above, cooking and cleaning are to of the most exalted parts of a Zen monk’s day. They are both great ways to practice mindfulness, and can be great rituals performed each day. If cooking and cleaning seem like boring chores to you, try doing them as a form of meditation. Put your entire mind into those tasks, concentrate, and do them slowly and completely. It could change your entire day (as well as leave you with a cleaner house).
Think about what is necessary. There is little in a Zen monk’s life that isn’t necessary. He doesn’t have a closet full of shoes, or the latest in trendy clothes. He doesn’t have a refrigerator and cabinets full of junk food. He doesn’t have the latest gadgets, cars, televisions, or iPod. He has basic clothing, basic shelter, basic utensils, basic tools, and the most basic food (they eat simple, vegetarian meals consisting usually of rice, miso soup, vegetables, and pickled vegetables). Now, I’m not saying you should live exactly like a Zen monk — I certainly don’t. But it does serve as a reminder that there is much in our lives that aren’t necessary, and it can be useful to give some thought about what we really need, and whether it is important to have all the stuff we have that’s not necessary.
Live simply. The corollary of Rule 11 is that if something isn’t necessary, you can probably live without it. And so to live simply is to rid your life of as many of the unnecessary and unessential things as you can, to make room for the essential. Now, what is essential will be different to each person. For me, my family, my writing, my running and my reading are essential. To others, yoga and spending time with close friends might be essential. For others it will be nursing and volunteering and going to church and collecting comic books. There is no law saying what should be essential for you — but you should consider what is most important to your life, and make room for that by eliminating the other less essential things in your life.

“Before enlightenment chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood and carry water.” - Wu Li

If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us, StumbleUpon or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)

Posted on 18 March 2008 in Simplicity |
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Comments (137)

Ryan Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:26 pm

Nice tips, thank you for sharing them.

Simple Zack Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:32 pm

I have been really into zen for about a year now. Although I am not a Zen monk, nor a Zen Buddhist either, I agree with you completely, that their lifestyle and way of simplicity can influence anyone to live better lives. This list is indeed, a wonderful list to help anyone be more mindful, peaceful, and of course, simple. Great post.

Evan Meagher Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:33 pm

Good post. Zen Buddhism’s always interested me. It’s part of the reason why I initially subscribed to this site.

I love the Thich Nhat Hanh quote. A wonderful mantra to live by, plus the ultimate zen that’s-what-she-said.

Teejay Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:34 pm

I have found this list very easy to follow. I have read the Tim’s 4-hour work week which has a similar theme. Elimination of the unimportant is really nice. It has helped me a lot dealing with my work.

mark @ mytropicalescape Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:48 pm

Hey Leo - when I lived in the rainforest in Papua New Guinea for two and a half years it was probably the closest to a Zen like existence that I will ever have.

Essentially, we had NO material possessions and there were no roads, no electricity, no running water…you get the idea.

Very simple, yet very happy :)

Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:

March 18th, 2008, 21:51 pm

Smile and serve others. You can’t beat that! Life is so much more enjoyable when you are helping those around you. Things just flow.

Great phrase, “Smile, breathe and go slowly.”

Eric Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:01 pm

Thanks for suggestions! These can keep our priorities clear…

Sean Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:02 pm

Thanks for sharing. I hope to try and live a more zen like life with every day.

Aadel Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:16 pm

I love these tips. I am trying my best these days, especially with the arrival of my second child, to become more thoughtful and peaceful. Your writing really helps. God Bless

Marelisa Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:29 pm

Very nice post. Life is about focus, purpose, and priority. There’s a great book called “Do Less, Achieve More”. A lot of people think that in order to “be successful” they need to run around frantically doing 10 things at the same time (pick up the dry cleaning, while on your cell phone on a business call, while spending quality time with your kid, while . . .). If you slow down, are mindful about what you’re doing, and take time to meditate (slow down mind chatter) you will put yourself in harmony and be able to accomplish a lot more than by rushing about.

banji - LessonInLife.com Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:46 pm

Great list! Just by scanning them through, I’m actually able to have an idea of what Zen is all about. It’s about being present..

From the look of it, can I assume that everything we do in our daily routine can be made a meditation.? We just need to be aware of everything we do. For example, why we are scratching our head? :) or describing the taste of plain water (in the mind of course) while drinking.

Do you think my conclusion of the post accurate?

Carole Fogarty Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:49 pm

It’s all in the smile. Thanks Leo. You rock!

We also need to be teaching our children about living life more simply and enjoying the moment.

Our beautiful children can so easily get caught up in a lifestyle that over stimulates and over excites their every moment.

I believe there is only one zen gift to give our children and that is stillness.

http://thehealthylivinglounge.com/2007/11/24/the-one-and-only-zen-gift-to-give-your-children/

Peace, love and stillness,

Carole Fogarty

Shilpan | successsoul.com Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:51 pm

Leo -

Great post. Simple life is essential in enriching one’s spirituality and mindfulness. Often, we tend to live life to please others. Often, we try to engage our mind in thoughts leading to self engaging pleasures that never provide happiness. I’ve read that Zen monks are some of the happiest people on earth. Your post justifies that argument.

Shilpan

Phraktyl Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:55 pm

That’s an excellent list! I’ve only been reading for a few weeks, but the more I read, the more I see that my life is full of clutter (as is my apartment), and it’s killing me. I will be printing that out, and putting copies on my fridge, and on my wall at work.

Before I do that, in number 10, will you correct “are to of” to “are two of”?

Thank you!

Doug Says:

March 18th, 2008, 22:58 pm

The article was good, however I take some offense at the title. Listing an article as “12 ESSENTIAL rules to live more like a zen monk” implies that these are basic tenets pertaining to the zen monk/buddhist lifestyle.

However in your opening statement you make it clear that not only are you simply interested in zen, but that you also consider these to be “essential rules” for your lifestyle.

I know you are trying to create a catchy title, which leads to more readers and more money, but this world really is too full of fake/cliche wordings. Blogs in particular seem to abuse language to bring for an emphasis that isn’t really necessary. It has gotten to the point where when people use terms like “essential” “must-have” “life-changing” etc. I find myself more likely to tune them out because I assume they are actually offering a sub-par product and need a catchy title to sell it,

In summary, let your titles titillate the reader but make sure the substance of the writing can back it up!

Courtney Moore Says:

March 18th, 2008, 23:13 pm

thanks for another great post. these always come just when I most need to simplify and center.

Leo Says:

March 18th, 2008, 23:52 pm

Thanks for the responses, guys!

@Doug: I appreciate your feedback and actually welcome the chance to clarify.

While I hear what you’re saying about not just creating a catchy title, I do think the title for this post is justified. You wrote that the title “implies that these are basic tenets pertaining to the zen monk/buddhist lifestyle”, but I don’t think that’s true. What it implies, or at least is intended to imply, is that these are basic tenets to living more like a Zen monk. And the article backs that up — it’s not just rules for my own lifestyle, but things I’ve done in my life to live more like a Zen monk.

The article isn’t about Buddhism, but about finding ways to live a simpler, Zen-like lifestyle that is focused on the present. These are the essential rules for doing that, not just for my lifestyle but for anyone’s. I think the article’s title captures the essence of that, but if you disagree, I will gladly note your disagreement. :)

Albert | UrbanMonk.Net Says:

March 19th, 2008, 0:07 am

A very cool introduction to mindfulness, Leo! Great to see the Zen returning in Zen Habits!

Cheers,
Albert | UrbanMonk.Net
Modern personal development, entwined with ancient spirituality.

The Daily Mind Says:

March 19th, 2008, 0:23 am

I am surprised that you didn’t include “meditate”.

Becoming mindful and aware is the most important thing about being a monk. There is no point living simply or reducing your workload unless it serves the purpose of creating a situation where you can look inwards and conquer your own mind.

Don’t you think?

The Daily Mind

The Daily Mind Says:

March 19th, 2008, 0:24 am

Sorry - you’ve got meditate in there!

Some people read others READ.

Apologies…

Guin White Says:

March 19th, 2008, 0:34 am

I agree with banji. Being more present–a theme that keeps repeating itself in my life lately–is the way to achieve all these tenets. If you are living in the present, you’re less likely to spend too much, clutter your space and your life, realize what you actually need (time to yourself, work, play, or service to others for example). Of course, I think we all agree here that living simply is key to a harmonius life (note, I did not say happy…an overused sentiment in my opinion). The most difficult part about living simply is actually doing it. How many of us would actually walk or bike to work once a week or even once a month? How many would stop buying things we don’t really need–which is most things? How many of us make time daily to meditate (20 minutes) or exercise (30 minutes)? Nourish our minds and our bodies? Just thinking about my own answers makes me think I have a ways to go before my life is zen-like, but it’s encouraging just to know that and to know that I can make some small changes to improve–difficult, yes, but simple.

Vered Says:

March 19th, 2008, 1:02 am

“Smile, breathe and go slowly.”

I do smile, especially to my kids, but I often forget to breathe properly because I am so caught up in doing stuff and in stressing over stuff.

Go slowly? I don’t think I have the “slow” gene. But I will try.

Your posts have a calming effect on me, which is great, since not many things do.

Kelly Rigby Says:

March 19th, 2008, 1:26 am

This is a timely reminder to me as I seem to have fallen into a pattern of rushing about lately. Maybe it’s trying to catch up on tasks that have fallen aside while nursing a sick household back to health, maybe it’s just bad habits rearing their ugly head. But as I read this, I suddenly became aware I was holding my breath and my shoulders were slumped and stiff.

Time to exhale, re-evaluate and focus on the essentials.

“Smile, breathe and go slowly”

Just what I needed to read today. Thanks.

Smiling back at ya
:) Kelly

Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:

March 19th, 2008, 1:49 am

Great post, Leo! I read three books that totally changed my life last year: Stumbling Toward Enlightenment, The 4-Hour Workweek, and How to be Idle. It really is all about eliminating all the noise and clutter in your life and choosing to embrace simplicity, have less, and do what you do slowly. Who knew eating at the dinner table and turning the radio off could be so satisfying?

living without limits Says:

March 19th, 2008, 2:14 am

great post!

Annikka Says:

March 19th, 2008, 2:16 am

Thank you so much, Leo, for sharing these tips. It’s certainly one way *you* serve others, and they give me much to think about — and much inspiration.

Cait Says:

March 19th, 2008, 2:34 am

Reading your posts with no distractions has become one of the most calming, meditative parts of my day. Also, your blog was one of the influences in my return to vegetarianism a few months ago. Another great post, Leo.

Thank you, from a healthier, happier me. :)

Ellie Walsh - LivingTheLawOfAttraction.com Says:

March 19th, 2008, 2:40 am

I really like my refrigerator! Hmmm actually I do enjoy technology and my closet with clothes….

However….

I also love some of these tips:
*Do it slowly and deliberately -
*Put space between things -
*Smile and Serve

I can incorporate these things within this technology age that I have chosen to born into —

Great Post

A Reader Says:

March 19th, 2008, 3:55 am

Read:

On Zazen by Uchiyama Kasho Roshi

http://www.abuddhistlibrary.com/Buddhism/C%20-%20Zen/Modern%20Teachers/Uchiyama%20Roshi/On%20Zazen/onzazen.html

Mins Says:

March 19th, 2008, 3:56 am

I really get motivation and inspiration from your article.
I am a regular reader of Zen habits.

Keep Going
It is helping millions of people.

Thanks

J.D. Says:

March 19th, 2008, 3:56 am

Narrowing your focus to this moment, your thoughts, your feelings, and your actions is immediate and powerful — it’s everything you control, no matter what’s going on around you.

It’s interesting how you can use temporal skills and focus to improve your life. The trick is to know when to focus on the past, the future, or the present. I carve out time for reflecting, planning and doing. When I’m doing, I’m in the moment.

The best way I know how to underperform, or miss the moment, is put your focus on a clock, scoreboard or scorecard.

Amir | Passion-Based Learning Says:

March 19th, 2008, 4:54 am

Great list!

Jeff - Science Says Says:

March 19th, 2008, 6:13 am

If I could add only one to your list, Leo, it would be “smile.”

I’ve had the great privilege of meeting a number of Buddhist monks, although most were admittedly Tibetan - HOWEVER - it was my honor to attend a teaching of Thich Nhat Hanh’s here is Los Angeles a few years ago.

Despite the differences between Tibetan Buddhism and Zen, I would say that the greatest practice they share, other then contemplation, is to smile.

There is something about Hanh’s peaceful, knowing grin that can make your spine tingle, and even more than his words, I think back to that calmness and satisfied smile when I look to him for guidance.

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 6:40 am

@Jeff - Science … great points … however, I would like to point out (with a smile) that “smile” is on my list already. :)

Organyk Khayos Says:

March 19th, 2008, 6:52 am

namaste…

Organyk Khayos Says:

March 19th, 2008, 6:55 am

namaste…we are called human beings and not human doings for a good reason most of us really do need to find time to just be instead of constantly trying to fill our lives with unnecessary actions and items just let it flow be blissful all

Adam William Henderson Says:

March 19th, 2008, 7:00 am

Leo,

Your response to criticism is commendable. I continue to be impressed by the way you react (and don’t react) to those who have something less than complimentary to say about what you do. I believe your patient and balanced replies speak volumes about your character.

Keep up that good work!

Chris Blackwell Says:

March 19th, 2008, 7:09 am

I liked the article although I think it lacked some more specific advice. A couple of the points were tied together and really could have been consolidated into a single point. Generally pretty good though, and I agree that we can find happiness in living simpler lives.

Tess Says:

March 19th, 2008, 7:57 am

This came at just the right time for me, and reading it was an interesting experience, as I was conscious all the time that there were emails to check, papers crowding my desk, other distractions. One thing at a time. That’s going to be my new motto.

Rich Says:

March 19th, 2008, 8:22 am

Your first point really resonated with a post I wrote a couple weeks ago on Finding Peace. The idea of doing one thing and being in the moment is so liberating…

Rob Says:

March 19th, 2008, 8:22 am

I once did a 3-day retreat with Thich Nhat Hanh in Scotland. I even shook his hand! What a lovely, peaceful man.

I try to bring some Zen principles into my daily investing activities - and it’s easier some days than others!

Keep up the good work.

ricardo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 8:33 am

very nice, but how do you apply these in a business environment? seems impossible.

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 8:45 am

@ricardo: That’s a great question. I don’t think it’s impossible, but I do admit that it’s not always easy, especially if you don’t have much control over your work or your schedule.

My recommendation is to find which rules can be applied to your situation. For example, is it possible to do your tasks more slowly? Or is it possible to do fewer tasks, and to pad your schedule so that there are tasks in between? Is it possible to designate times in your day for certain activities (checking email, for example, or making phone calls)? Is it possible to find time in your day (even before or after work) for thoughtful meditation, even if that’s during exercise?

I would submit that many of these things are possible in a business environment, to some degree at least. Not all of them, perhaps, but some. And if you focus on the parts of your life you can control — perhaps your mornings, or your personal time, or your lunches — you can at least make some headway to finding a more peaceful, more now-centered life.

polaralex Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:09 am

One of the main problems of our society is the “too much” factor. Everyone seeks for the most in quantity, not knowing that less is more.

Having less things to care about is the first step to a peaceful mind. Zen is right at this.

Jeff Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:18 am

I travel to Thailand once or twice a year on business & find that when I return I’m very mindful of all these practices. It seems effortless. After a week or so I get stuck back in the garbage of American life & all the wonderful feeling goes away. I’m torn between capitalism & living. The illusions are endless.

Brothajohn Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:19 am

and really Leo, when you get to the heart of things like GTD, or a Covey based system, or even ZTD don’t they all come back to focus, one thing at a time, and mindfullness. For me just that work, ‘mindfullness’ helps to bring me back to center.

Great post Leo.

Wendi Kelly Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:34 am

Thanks Leo,

I wrote them all down to put in my morning journal. I think if I can look at this list each morning when I wake up, maybe I’ll have a fighting chance???

Doing things in a mindful, thoughtful and deliberate way is the hard one for me. How do you do that?

As a writer, I find that I am sometimes “writing in my head” as I am walking around doing other tasks and that my body is out there fuctioning on auto-pilot. I am not even aware that I have “poured the water”. Later when I check back in to earth I am asking myself…Did I pour the water???

I have a hard time keeping my brain and my body in the same place a lot of the time!

skyz Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:41 am

there is elegance in simplicity - i am a vajrayana buddhist - there is an inner splendor to varjayana which is realized more easily through the outer simplicity of zen - simple splendor - ’simple grace no blame’

Philip Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:48 am

Leo -

Thanks for another well-constructed and practical post. Breaking down the barriers between our mental projections and the direct experience of life is an unbelievably difficult thing for most of us in the modern world.

Compassion, equanimity, and absolute fearlessness come from seeing things just as they are, without bringing any of our expectations and other ego-contrived notions to the experience. While this can be done in any environment, cluttered or not, simplicity certainly helps eliminate destractions so we can get to the serious work of chilling out. Thanks for reminding us of these practical and time-tested ways to see the world more clearly.

Dan Says:

March 19th, 2008, 9:56 am

First off, I just want to say that I started reading Zen Habits about a month or so ago, and I really enjoy it.

I worked at a retail hardware store for 6 years, and as soon as I left that position, I started working as a civilian government employee. It’s certainly been an adjustment, and quite the test of will to adjust my high-speed approach to the pace of my current work (as a note, I’m getting out of here soon enough to pursue endeavours that I’m more passionate about). Your articles have been really great in reminding me how to keep centered, and they’ve been valuable as a different point of view.

That said, I think it’s best for some people, myself included, to think of your Zen Monk hints as guidelines, or ideals to strive for, rather than rules; of course, I’m sure that was the intent in the first place.

For example, in the hectic world of retail (at least in my experience at a small store where on a busy day it was impossible to get away with slacking), you’re kidding yourself to believe that you can handle one thing at a time, or do just about anything slowly. I think the key is finding out how many things you can really do at once, and trying to avoid overloading yourself beyond that limit. Likewise, I think your message to do things “slowly and deliberately” could be reduced to just “deliberately.” Make sure you take care in what you’re doing, don’t waste effort in vain, and — with practice — it’s not hard to learn to do things well and do them quickly.

Hey, great blog, keep up the good work!

Dan Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:09 am

Great stuff! Thanks. “Do it completely” - how often I forget that one!

I love practicing “The Heart of the Rose” which I learned from the book: The monk who sold his Ferrari…

Every day for 15 minutes I concentrate on a rose (I don’t have a never ending supply so I just imagine one) and I think of nothing else but that rose for the whole 15 minutes, if my mind strays I bring it back to the rose again. It’s a great method to learn to control your wandering mind and get focused on the task at hand.

TPI News Daily Update Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:19 am

Hi Collin,

This was a great article. There’s so much to learn from these tips. Although they sound easy, it is a challenge to practice them at all times, but one must never give up.

The mind is often pulling us to the past or projecting the future, but only present exists and we end up missing it.

Thank you!

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:20 am

@Wendy Kelly, who wrote:

“Doing things in a mindful, thoughtful and deliberate way is the hard one for me. How do you do that?”

Practice. :)

robbin@brainsonfire.com Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:24 am

What a great post. I find when I am not living my simple rules of life and staying focused that if I take time to have clear my desk of clutter and piles,I can get back to a more centered state of mind.

Laurie Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:24 am

Super ideas. I tend to multi-task which many times does end up with unfinished projects. I am looking forward to the summer when I have some time off. I am wanting to purge and simplefy my life. I can’t wait!

ZENATOR Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:29 am

Awesome Tips! Thanks for the wisdom and inspiration, Zenator

EscapeVelocity Says:

March 19th, 2008, 10:38 am

Mindfulness is a really tough one for me–I learned as a child to daydream to escape boring classes, and it’s a tough habit to break. And when I’m doing something nonboring, my mind is always partly on how I’m going to report it later. Do you ever find yourself slipping from being in the moment to mentally starting to compose a blog entry about whatever it is you’re doing?

fire-pixel.com Says:

March 19th, 2008, 11:55 am

Great advice to take stress out of your life.

It seems everything has been said that I would say above. So I guess I’ll reciprocate with another article you might enjoy.

Top 10 Awesome Websites That Sell Cool Products You Probably Have Never Visited But Need To.

http://www.comember.net/blogs/firepixel/

Thanks!

Dot Says:

March 19th, 2008, 12:06 pm

Great post! I’m saving it to calm me when things get too crazy at work. I have learned that mindfulness and doing one thing at a time enhance efficiency and accuracy, but it’s so easy to rush around.

ShaunMac Says:

March 19th, 2008, 12:26 pm

Leo,

Thanks for the post. I have a book called Zen Guitar which this reminds me of. You should pick it up as it is a good read, and, you may end up with a guitar!!!

Peace

Clay Says:

March 19th, 2008, 12:31 pm

Dan, regarding retail . . . I’m in it too and know what you are talking about. In reality we are doing only one thing at at time, only in rapid succession or shifting focus constantly. Doing things slowly often isn’t an option, but as you note, mindful deliberation is possible. Following the breath, mindful breathing, is a key for me. I teach my people to let the phone ring 3 times before answering and to breathe slowly for each ring (a Thich Naht Hanh tip).

Leo - great post, as usual. I’ve been a subscriber from the early days and you never disappoint.

JoLynn Braley Says:

March 19th, 2008, 12:56 pm

I read one of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books - I don’t remember the title at the moment but I always think of it when I’m washing dishes. It’s all about being in the Now, the present moment and focusing on only what you’re doing Now. I don’t always stay in the present moment but when I become aware of it I bring my focus back to the present.

Thanks Leo!

Rob Says:

March 19th, 2008, 13:08 pm

Leo,

I don’t know if you are familiar with him, but you might be interested in Brad Warner. He has written a couple of books about Zen and how he has integrated it into his life. He is technically a Zen monk now, but he doesn’t come across quite like your classic Zen monk. Definitely an interesting take on Zen in the modern world.

http://www.hardcorezen.blogspot.com/

BTW, I’ve been reading your site for a while and I really enjoy it! Thanks for writing!

Tom Stine Says:

March 19th, 2008, 13:13 pm

I couldn’t agree more with your list, Leo. Especially “sitting.” I don’t think it is possible to over-emphasize the importance of taking time to sit. And not necessarily in a meditative, Zen way. But just sit. Just allow everything to be as it is. Just allow.

Thanks for the good post!

Beth Says:

March 19th, 2008, 13:35 pm

Mindfulness is, I think, the hardest thing to do in the world. It used to be easier, but these days, life is designed to distract us and to give us more and more to do without really questioning whether we need to do those tasks.

JEMi | Tips for Life, Love, You Says:

March 19th, 2008, 14:28 pm

you know whats funny about the timing of this post is I’m doing a “purging” of sorts of most media..and generally things that disturb my thinking right now

That includes eating better, working on my focus and personal balance

so the timing couldn’t be better for this post :) in fact, evry tip you listed here is like some sort of affirmatioin because these are things I’ve decided to do - and wrote em in my journal

*shivers*

well hmm about your number 11. No ones going NEAR my wardrobe :-P

Mike Says:

March 19th, 2008, 14:31 pm

Loved this post today, I have always been fascinated with the lives of monks. Just the pure simplicity of a life like that can often be enticing.

oakling Says:

March 19th, 2008, 14:48 pm

I did need a reminder to start eating more pickled vegetables! I want to start making my own kimchi, and claim that ZenHabits made me do it.

Mick Says:

March 19th, 2008, 14:49 pm

I love this post! Keeping it simple in telling us how to keep it simple. It really resonated with me. keep up the good work

http://www.crazanity.com

William Mize Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:03 pm

Wonderful post, Leo.
I thought you might be interested in this film:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Into_Great_Silence

It’s on my Netflix list, and I think you would enjoy it as well.

Jeff Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:04 pm

Thanks for the post - well done!

While I’m no editor, may I respectfully point out one line in topic 11 which may contain a grammatical error?

Shouldn’t:

“there is much in our lives that aren’t necessary”

read:

“there is much in our lives that isn’t necessary”

(Feel free to delete this comment after consideration.)

chris Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:12 pm

Thich Nhat Hanh is not a Zen monk. He is a Buddhist monk. Zen Buddhism is a Japanese branch of Buddhism. Hanh is Vietnamese and joined a Vietnamese Buddhist monastery. He now lives in France.

However, he writes about many things that are very significant in Zen Buddhism.

sterling | bizlift Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:15 pm

I like the point on rituals. They can help bring mindfulness to every aspect of life.

Love the photo from Kanzeon Zen Center. I met my soulmate at a Zen workshop there 4 years ago.

@William Mize - Beautiful movie. Saw it at Sundance in Park City a few years ago.

Juddy Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:21 pm

Grated cheese!

Alan Watts would love it!

Bruce from Brucisms.com Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:40 pm

Leo,

I appreciate the dexterity you bring to the difference between “Zen-like advice” versus advice on Zen practice.

For those who have taken offense, I would only suggest that the Buddha would think a little zen is better than no zen. :)

Thanks for another insightful article. You are an example to all of us in the blogosphere who are trying to carve out our own little niche - and hopefully help others along the way!

Bruce

Dave Says:

March 19th, 2008, 15:52 pm

Enlightening as always, thank you.

mijazma Says:

March 19th, 2008, 16:21 pm

i truly doubt this has anything to do with zen, except perhaps superficial appearances. zen isn’t a god damned recipe, there is no faking it with zen. so please, before you get any ideas, go hump something else.

SpaceAgeSage Says:

March 19th, 2008, 16:48 pm

“When walking, walk. When eating, eat.”

Mindfulness deliberation instead of being a pinball running amok among the bells, chimes, and flashing lights — yes, I like that. I can often live too much in the past or future, spinning “what ifs” and “I wish I hads.” I appreciate how you put the focus on the moment, which after all, has only enough time for itself.

Frank Jerome Says:

March 19th, 2008, 17:05 pm

Hello Leo,
I have never posted a comment on your blog, but for some reason it is happening this time. Your blog is amazing and I always look forward to the new articles. The content is so reflective of the way I live my life and would like to live it, that I am inspired on a regular basis by merely reading it.

This one touched me because I really believe that if we do get rid of the non-essentials, and live life like a Zen Monk, we would truly understand ourselves better through inner reflection and we would also view the world in a more peaceful and compassionate way.

Thank you for your contributions. They are truly blessings to us all.

God bless.

mijazma Says:

March 19th, 2008, 17:42 pm

I find my self urging to reply to these comments, so I’ll have a one more go and then I’ll lay it to rest.

I personally find zen to be about NO MIND, no words, about reality in it’s entirety. For me it’s a philosophy to end all philosophy, a path of rebellion and awakening to true and ultimate freedom, freedom from self.

Developing habits is the very worst of things from a zen point of view - zen is about burning, about fire of being alive in this very moment, and about all the possibilities of the NOW. I believe Buddha himself said “after you cross a bridge, burn it”. Osho said if Ma Tzu was alive today, he would probably put people in cars, drive them and flip the car over on the edge of a cliff - it’s about shaking people from their sleep, not condoning them with these lullabies. Keep in mind that it is not uncommon for a zen teacher even to kill a monk, it’s been known to happen.

I feel very irritated with the watering down, user friendly, instant ready attitude toward this pure and raw force of zen-experience, and this jerking each other off with words like “peace” and “compassion”.

…it’s probably me.
Oh yeah, and “god bless”.

thomas e Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:00 pm

I think this is very interesting, but I wonder if the zen principals can really be practiced in western life, where there is so much chaos.

Michael Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:01 pm

Thanks - again.
That’s the good thing about things ‘zen’ - each time you read them they seem to be new - seems to be for the first time.
One small comment. You referred a number of times to monks as ‘he’ - but I recently lived near a monastry run by women monks.
Just to include all your women readers. :-)

99ppp Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:06 pm

Terrific post, Leo. This is the kind of content that distinguishes your space here from other “time management/productivity” blogs.

Jacqueline Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:15 pm

This reminds me of a great quotation, “Discipline brings liberation.”

ellis Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:36 pm

The interesting thing for me is that as a pastor I have taught on similar lines to these points. These expressions seem to work regardless of creed.

Laurel Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:39 pm

A lot of people think that being a monk is something exotic, or something one does away at a monastery(and to an above post, if it’s about No Mind, it’s also about Mind–both are true). My teacher (of Suzuki Roshi’s lineage) started an organization called Everyday Zen, and those of us who partake are just ordinary people living our lives. Zen principles such as the above stated help bring meaning and peace into my life, and the habitual, repetitive forms of Zen practice work to free my mind–it helps to have access to them to deepen this practice, and access to wise teachings (Everydayzen.com). Many assumptions are made about Zen practice. It helps to have a teacher who can clarify the many misconceptions out there. There are branches of Zen, and branches of Buddhist practice, and little deep cultural understanding about all of these variances. So please take very lightly any statements about what Zen is, or means, or should mean…even my statement–take it with a grain of salt…

Laurel Says:

March 19th, 2008, 18:43 pm

You know, I just have to add to my message above that having a tradition to follow (mine being Soto Zen) makes all these forms you are describing much more meaningful. I kind of doubt people will follow such articulated styles of eating and behaving for very long unless it makes them feel connected to something. When I do them, as a part of my lineage, I am connected to ancestors all the way back to Buddha, and I am connected to the sangha of practitioners who are trying to live a more conscious life. It makes a difference…

Neil Keleher Says:

March 19th, 2008, 19:53 pm

Hi Leo, loved the article and the comments. Reading one of the other comments about applying these ideas in a business setting, (Ricardo) or when we are in the throws of life, one possible way is by asking ourselves what it is we are doing at this moment in time. Walking slowly it’s easy to walk slowly, we feel our feet, our center, our breath. Likewise washing the dishes or cleaning the house. But what about when we’re are working at our desks doing a job we dislike or working with people we aren’t the best of friends with, or just in a difficult situation?
If we can create the space, even just for a few seconds, to ask ourselves what we are trying to do, or what the purpose of what we are trying to do, then what we are doing can become a moving meditation.

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 19:57 pm

@chris: regarding Thich Nhat Hanh not being a Zen monk … would you mind providing your sources? I’ve done a lot of reading on him, and every source I’ve read says that he’s a Zen monk.

The following sources (to give just a couple examples) say that he is from Vietnam, but joined a Zen Buddhist monastery — including his own website (Plum Village):

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thich_Nhat_Hanh

http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?NewsID=1096334

http://www.plumvillage.org/HTML/ourteacher.html

He’s also written books on Zen Buddhism … for example, this guide to Zen practice.

@William Mize: Thanks for the film recommendation — it looks interesting!

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 20:01 pm

@mijazma, who wrote:

“I feel very irritated with the watering down, user friendly, instant ready attitude toward this pure and raw force of zen-experience, and this jerking each other off with words like “peace” and “compassion”.”

I appreciate your feedback! I find that when I get irritated, deep breathing helps to calm me, and then I take a step back and try to see the situation with perspective. In the grand scheme of things, I think encouraging people to be more mindful and present in their daily lives is one of the lesser crimes of humanity. :)

kumar Says:

March 19th, 2008, 20:11 pm

I love those 12. But even I love the following too.
1. Not attach much importance to results. Enjoy the process.
2. Keep assumptions realistic or don’t make.

Travis Says:

March 19th, 2008, 21:01 pm

Good stuff. My wife, and I, spent a week living as guest students at Green Gulch Zen Farm mid-last year and it was an amazing experience to be immersed in the points you outline above. The experience informed my meditation practice, and continues to do so. It has also touched (as far as I can tell) all aspects of my life. We recently went back to Green Gulch (just this last Sunday) on a random lark and were treated to a delightful talk by the son of the founder of San Francisco Zen Center and its sister facilities, Green Gulch and Tassajara, Hoitsu Suzuki Roshi. He was amazing; funny, playful, energized and wise. Zen is a treasure in the world. Thanks!

Rachel Says:

March 19th, 2008, 22:06 pm

“Before enlightenment, chop wood and carry water, after enlightenment, chop wood and carry water” the essence of being a mom.

kevin Says:

March 19th, 2008, 22:21 pm

Great that you are showing some respect to your bogs name-sake (so many publications or products simply use the word ‘zen’ without understanding it’s true meaning).

However, was surprised you don’t actually meditate - the foundation of any Zen Buddhist practice. How can you understand the true depth of meaning to Zen without ever actually meditating….?

Leo Says:

March 19th, 2008, 22:35 pm

@kevin: Rule #8, Sitting, is meditation. :)

ARC Says:

March 19th, 2008, 22:53 pm

Leo - I am a brand new reader of your blog - came here from Lifehacker a few days ago. Your writing is clear and your posts have been extremely helpful for me as I’m trying to sort out a stressful existence.

I especially enjoyed this post.

Thanks very much!

special K Says:

March 19th, 2008, 23:16 pm

I can’t agree with task no.2, 3 and 4. It’s just not efficient enough. and I’m quite impatient with things. I guess not all lives (read: jobs) can follow these rules.

kevin Says:

March 19th, 2008, 23:53 pm

@Leo

Well, I didn’t say meditation wasn’t in the list…I remarked that the writer jogs - as a way of being present. But it can not compare to sitting.

Without a regular sitting practice Zen is practically meaningless…Zen is sitting:

Being still and silent in an upright position for 15 to 30 minutes daily. As the Buddha realized and millions since, nothing can compare to this fundamental experience of being present and still with oneself.

Shaun Says:

March 19th, 2008, 23:56 pm

Thank you