Zen and The Art of Happiness

Notes on the book “Zen and The Art of Happiness” by Chris Prentiss

This is a relatively short book which gives a perspective on being happy and mindful in the name of Zen. Although the book has nothing that distinguishes itself from other generic self-help books, I liked reading the book. The author’s repeated mention of Passages Substance Abuse Treatment Center spoils the reading experience.

The book tries to focus on ideas to live life happily, with mindfulness and being one with the Universe. Every chapter starts with an insightful quote. With the help of short stories the author conveys beautiful ideas/philosophies in the most simplistic and effective manner.

When you are convinced of the truth that everything that happens is the best thing that can happen, life begins to be much more fun. It is like opening a direct channel to happiness. Happiness is there, waiting for you. All you need to do is follow the formula that creates it. Unhappiness is also there, waiting for you. Your response determines which one you will experience.

Here is an example to help clarify how that principle works. Suppose you want to open a coffee shop and your budget is one hundred thousand dollars. Suppose you have that amount of money in the bank. You will go out looking for sites and start interviewing people for positions. You will get prices on equipment, look at furniture, contact sign makers, contact suppliers, arrange your schedule, and do all the things necessary to get the business started. Imagine, instead, that you do not have the money in the bank. If you act on that fact, you’ll do nothing except wonder how you can get the money to start the project. Knowing you do not have the money cripples your actions.