My 10 Commandments For a Fulfilling Life – Inspired by the book ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’

This is a book that caught a lot of attention when it initially got published – first for its catchy title and then because the word spread that it was one of the best life-altering books prescribed in a manner that did not seem preachy. The narrative adopts a storyline that is easy to follow, with a simple and straightforward plot, making it an effortless read. Contrary to what the title wants you to believe, this is a life journey that is inspired by a monk and not a journey of a monk who sells his Ferrari.

The underlying crux though is about self-awakening, spiritualism, meditation and so much more which is seen through the lens of Eastern philosophy. The book primarily teaches how to work towards a life that promises long-lasting happiness and fulfillment. It enlightens you that focusing on building your inner life is more important than building your outer life.

If you are looking for a strong dose of positivity and motivation without the repetitive tools presented in a thousand different ways which are typically part of self-help books, then you should definitely give this book a try.

I am still not sure why I took so long to pick this one up for a read, but I am thankful I did. What is beautiful about such books is that it can be interpreted in any way that suits your mindset. You can personalise it to incorporate the same positivity but in a million different ways. It is upto you to introduce the insights shared in this book in areas of your life that you see fit. And that is what I want to present to you here. But before getting into that let me share a quick summary of the plot for those who may have not read the book.

The book takes you through the life of the protagonist Julien Mantle, a wealthy, high-power lawyer who has everything that money can buy including a red Ferrari parked outside. He has his life turned upside down when he suffers from a heart attack during a court trial. He then decides to leave his luxurious but stressful life behind and travel to the mysterious land of the Himalayan Mountains in search of his true purpose and meaning in life.

Here he meets sages of Sivana, the monks who live a fulfilled life over 100 years, complete with peaceful integration of the mind, body and soul. Julian learns a lot about how to live life in search of true meaning. He learns about the virtues that can enable him to be more full and happier. He returns after a few months and narrates his experience and findings to his best friend, John.

Although the book revolves around 7 Virtues required for a life of inner peace, joy, and a wealth of spirituality, I have simplified it to suit my daily life ritual and I call them my 10 commandments for a good life which I try to follow every single day. These principles have taught me to be clear about what I want from life and channel my entire focus towards it, and not get affected by the trivialities that surround it.

I have put the 10 commandments down on my Bullet Journal as a reminder to myself and that is testament to the impact this book has had on me.

I know I have the handwriting of a 10 year old, so I have created a digitised version. If you would like to have a copy of the same to incorporate some of these changes in your life too, please do not hesitate to drop me a note and I will be more than happy to share it with you.

Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested; that is, some books are to be read only in parts; others to be read, but not curiously; and some few are to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.

Francis Bacon

It is entirely up to you to decide how you want to digest this book!