The Dalai Lama is the main representative of Buddhist teachings on Earth. His advice is based on simple yet transcendental teachings of a religion and philosophy that searches for human happiness and pleasure without resulting in the selfishness pertaining to other doctrines. By only caring about ourselves within this shared universe can result in apathy, intolerance, and, consequently, destruction.
The answer does not lie in abstinence or over-zealousness, but in a middle point where the person enjoys and suffers, gives and receives, loves and is loved. Schopenhauer applied this symmetry to his own philosophical thought by disapproving of individualistic desires while claiming two methods of escaping the vicious cycle: compassion and art.
After applying the following tips you will be able to understand Schopenhauer and Buddha’s lessons better, so that you can become a better person and encounter true happiness amidst this chaotic world.
Be compassionate
The Dalai Lama believes that compassion is not merely a religious attribute but a human one, as well as a matter of survival. Compassionate people experience pleasure similar to that resulting from sex, a delicious dinner, or a holiday vacation.
Cultivate friendship
Never underestimate your friends, because they will become the best support during the most difficult moments of your life. If you provide love and care, you will be rewarded with trust and affection. The Dalai Lama makes it clear that true friendships don’t depend on money or political influence, so let go of those that seem to focus on convenience.
Be kind and help others
The Dalai Lama sees no need for temples or the complications of religion. Our own brain and heart can be our sanctuary and kindness our philosophy.
Don’t let technology take over your life
The Dalai Lama has over eight million Twitter followers and yet continues to live his life freely. He believes that the constant use of technology deters human relationships and limits people from being compassionate. Buddhism searches to find balance in all aspects of life, including social media.
Find happiness
The media bombards people with messages concerning material possessions, but never portrays values of forgiveness, patience, and tolerance. When people start to adopt these attitudes, they’ll be able to discover happiness.
Negotiate instead of arguing
Non-violence implies dialogue. Dialogue comes with compromise and respect for the rights of others. Arguments never result in a winner because all those involved are hurt or affected in some way. Negotiation means to find equal common ground between all parties involved.
Find inner peace
In order to encounter inner peace, the Dalai Lama suggest spending some alone time every day. This will provide you with space to reflect and shun negative thoughts such as anger, resentment, jealousy, and exhaustion. He believes that a calm mind is the source of happiness and health.
Be kind to the Earth
In order to survive, the Dalai Lama says we should all care for our planet by learning to recycle and searching for alternative energy options. Understanding about the problems we currently face will help deter humanity and nature from reaching the point of no return.
Learn from your mistakes
After we make a mistake it’s important to reflect on what went wrong. Self-examination will help us grow as people as well as aid us in finding a balance between mind, soul, and heart. In the words of this wise man, “When you lose, don’t miss the lesson.”
Don’t hurt others
Any damage you wreak will come back to you. Whether it’s lies, nasty gossip, or unkind gestures, no matter how small the action is, it will turn against you. “If you can help, help. If not, don’t obstruct.”
Living in peace is to be in harmony with yourself and the world. Wellbeing starts within and projects itself to our surroundings. Try inserting these suggestions into your daily life and see how they transform your everyday life.
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Translated by María Suárez
Illustrations by @cuervo_ibanez
