5 Ways to be Happy with the Happiest Man on Earth | GQ

Summary

Matthew Ricard, a Buddhist monk, shares insights from his journey transitioning from a scientist to a spiritual seeker in the Himalayas. He discusses the importance of cultivating fundamental human qualities like attention, loving-kindness, inner freedom, and peace, emphasizing that these are skills to be developed through practice, not instant traits. Ricard stresses the significance of altruism, compassion, and the wish for all beings to find true happiness by addressing the root causes of suffering. He highlights the importance of service to others, as this brings meaning and purpose to life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Inner peace and attention are crucial for optimal human flourishing.
• 😀 Worrying about things without solutions only compounds problems—focus on what can be done.
• 😀 Training and practice are essential to develop skills like compassion, just as with any other discipline.
• 😀 At the age of 20, it's important to reflect on what truly matters and seek meaningful paths in life.
• 😀 True education is about lighting a flame of passion and purpose, not just filling a vessel with knowledge.
• 😀 Altruistic love and wishing happiness for others should stem from a genuine desire for their well-being.
• 😀 Compassion for others does not mean excusing harmful behavior; it involves wishing for transformation and prevention of harm.
• 😀 You cannot separate true happiness from ethical actions—cheating or bullying do not lead to lasting happiness.
• 😀 Altruism is not about soft wishes but about addressing the root causes of suffering in society.
• 😀 Service to others should be the motivation for one's actions—if not, it is a waste of time.

Q & A

What was Matthew Ricard's journey before becoming a Buddhist monk?

Matthew Ricard began his career as a scientist and then transitioned to living as a Buddhist monk in the Himalayas at the age of 26. He has spent most of the last 50 years in this pursuit.

What advice does Matthew Ricard offer when facing difficulties in life?

Matthew Ricard suggests that if there is a solution to a problem, take action to solve it. If no solution exists, there's no point in worrying. Instead, focus on other productive activities that could be beneficial.

How does Matthew Ricard describe the importance of fundamental human qualities?

He emphasizes that qualities like attention, loving-kindness, inner freedom, and inner peace are crucial for flourishing and functioning optimally in life. These qualities can be developed through training, similar to learning a skill.

Why does Matthew Ricard compare learning compassion to learning a musical instrument?

Matthew Ricard compares learning compassion to learning an instrument because, just like with playing the piano, you can't instantly master these skills. It requires practice, time, and consistent effort to enhance one's abilities in compassion and emotional regulation.

What question does Matthew Ricard encourage young people to ask themselves?

He encourages young people to ask themselves what truly matters in their lives. It's important to reflect on what gives meaning and purpose, rather than simply following external expectations.

What is the Greek poet Ariston's perspective on education that Matthew Ricard mentions?

Matthew Ricard quotes Ariston, who said, 'Education is not just filling a vessel, but lighting a flame.' This emphasizes the importance of finding what truly inspires and motivates you, instead of just acquiring knowledge for the sake of it.

How does Matthew Ricard describe altruistic love and its role in happiness?

Altruistic love, according to Matthew Ricard, is the wish for others to find true happiness. It involves wishing people to find the real causes of happiness, like compassion and freedom from suffering, rather than simply desiring happiness through harmful actions.

What does Matthew Ricard say about wishing for the happiness of those who cause harm?

Matthew Ricard clarifies that wishing for the happiness of harmful people, like dictators, doesn't mean excusing their actions. Instead, it means wishing for their transformation and the prevention of their harmful actions, free from hatred.

What is the essence of compassion in Matthew Ricard's view?

For Matthew Ricard, compassion is about wishing that others, even those who have caused harm, find a way to change and stop causing suffering. It's about addressing the root causes of suffering, not just the symptoms.

Why does Matthew Ricard travel around the world, including places like New York?

Matthew Ricard explains that he travels and engages with people around the world to be of service. He believes that if he can be of little help to others, there's no reason for him to stay in one place.