As arguably the wisest individual on the planet, the Dalai Lama’s life advice is definitely some of the best going around. Ever since attending one of his discussions in Melbourne in 2011 and subsequently having poured over ‘The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living’, I am utterly convinced that no other person exists in this world who is as learned and enlightened in the ways of the world as he is.
Here are 10 inspirational quotations to guide your life in the right direction.
The very purpose of our life is to seek happiness.
Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive. I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all human beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.
Our prime purpose in life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.
Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.
Whether one is rich or poor, educated or illiterate, religious or non-believing, man or woman, black, white or brown, we are all the same. Physically, emotionally and mentally, we are all equal. We all share basic needs for food, shelter, safety and love. We all aspire to happiness and we all shun suffering. Each of us has hopes, worries, fears and dreams. Each of us wants the best for our family and loved ones. We all experience pain when we suffer loss and joy when we achieve what we seek. On this fundamental level, religion, ethnicity, culture, and language make no difference.
Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.
Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.
If a problem is fixable, if a situation is such that you can do something about it, then there is no need to worry. If it is not fixable, then there is no help in worrying. There is no benefit in worrying whatsoever.
If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.
When you are discontent, you always want more, more, more. Your desire can never be satisfied. But when you practise contentment, you can say to yourself, ‘Oh yes — I already have everything that I really need.’
It all just makes sense, doesn’t it? Which piece of advice speaks to you the most?
Although they’re all good, I love the one about seeking happiness. More often than not, we focus on material things because we think they’re going to make us happy when in fact all we should focus about is what truly makes us happy. I always say “do more of what makes you happy” now because it’s truly all that matters! Thanks for the reminder 🙂
It’s a good one isn’t it, Valerie? I think we all need little reminders like these once in a while! My favourite quote is the one about being thankful for life itself — every moment we have is a true gift. Thanks for your thoughts! x