Summary
- Surya Das walks us through how to live completely in the now, in “Buddha Standard Time.” We have the power to manipulate time by altering how aware and mindful we are of the present moment. The practices outlined within are increasingly important in today’s hectic day and age.
Key Takeaways
- Buddha Standard Time – timeless time, wholly now
- Issue trying to solve – how to wean yourself from the addictions that sap time and energy, to clear out all the debris and distraction. You have much more time than you think. In fact, you have all the time in the world
- The more concentration and awareness you can achieve, the more time disappears. It’s not time that we lack in our rushed lives, but focus
- Do not chase the small, ephemeral things that result only in loss and suffering if you become dependent on them (social media, fame, money, etc.)
- Become mindful of what you pay attention to and become more intentional, objective and observant to the minutiae of your life, the transient experiences. Increases self-control and mental discipline, transforms our attitudes and shifts more towards being more responsive, thoughtful, intentional and aware
- Nobody can make us angry if we don’t have seeds of anger in our own heart
- It is not what happens to us, but how we respond that determines our character and our destiny
- Smiling often is a great practice – it is free and spreads love and kindness
- People are terrible multitaskers
- Master the lost art of waiting and you’ll make friends with time and grow less bored, irritated or annoyed. Read, enjoy and appreciate the people and sites around you
- Take time to slow down – slow cooking, slow showers, slow walking, etc. All help you get back into the moment and appreciate the world around you
- The Sacred Pause – practice of creating a moment to respond consciously by breathing, waiting and considering things objectively before responding
- True realized masters are not beyond suffering and dissatisfaction but one with it
- Cultivate a beginner’s or “don’t know” mind – eliminates ego and wasteful thinking
What I got out of it
- Really got a lot out of this book and its tips, techniques and recommendations on how to slow down, be present and mindful. It’s not time that we lack, but focus.