Real Happiness at Work

November 11, 2013
Given that a “dream job” may be unlikely for most adults, influential American Buddhist teacher and author Salzberg (Real Happiness) presents “pragmatic tools… for becoming more productive, satisfied, and peaceful at work.” While her fundamental advice—meditate—is a given, non-practitioners will find many useful strategies to shift inner attitudes towards common challenges. Using as a framework eight “pillars” such as balance, compassion, resilience, and integrity, Salzberg explores how Buddhist principles can be applied to the workplace. Richly detailed testimonies illustrate the ways in which individuals—police officers, business executives, and many others—have found ways to change their experiences on the job; observations are supported by current findings in science and psychology. In addition to detailed meditation practices, Salzberg includes quick “stealth meditations,” such as reading an email twice before responding, or focusing on just one task at a time. This wise guide offers hope that employees can find meaning in even the most mundane jobs, learn to start over, and have a positive impact, however small. Among the many books that apply Buddhism to everyday life, this is a standout.

November 15, 2013

According to New York Times best-selling author Salzberg (Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation; A 28-Day Program), one of the best ways to become happier at work is to practice meditation. While we can't change the circumstances of our lives, she writes, we can change how we feel about them. Salzberg offers a series of five core meditations, such as letting go of thoughts and practicing loving kindness, and provides narratives and exercises in what she considers the eight pillars of happiness at work: balance, concentration, compassion, resilience, communication, integrity, meaning, and open awareness. Salzberg has walked the walk and is all too aware of the struggles of the workplace. VERDICT Ideal for those open to meditation and helpful for those ready to question their own strategies and responses to problems.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.