Career Success
American Buddhism teaches that those who live and work in the world can pursue a fulfilling meditative lifestyle. Rama – Dr. Frederick Lenz taught that one of the greatest mistakes that people make who pursue self-discovery and meditation is to neglect to develop a strong career.
Rama suggested that individuals who meditate should seek to develop the mind through their career and should consider a career in computer science, law, medicine, the arts, etc. – any career which strengthens the mind.
Rama also suggested that you choose a profession that will give you enough money to have economic freedom. Money enables you to travel, to live in a place that is suitable, to not be brought down or drained. Also, money can be used to aid others.
“I know nothing that hurts a person spiritually more than being poor. If you’re always trying to think about how you’re going to pay the bills, if you’re living in a place that has a lower vibration because you can’t afford a better one, if you’re worried about money … You can’t meditate or make good spiritual progress if you’re all wrapped emotionally because of a lack of money.” Rama – Dr. Frederick Lenz
Rama explained that as an individual practices higher meditation techniques, a tremendous volume of energy and creativity flows through them. Since we spend a great deal of time at work, Rama suggested we use our time at work – no matter what kind of work we choose to do – to build our skills and focus in support of our career and meditative practice.
“When you work with excellence it adds to your consciousness. Work is a chance to exercise control, restraint, discipline, creative inspiration. If you are mindful in your work, if you put your best effort into it, then something comes back to you.” Rama – Dr. Frederick Lenz
Rama taught that the mental structures that are used in computer science are very similar to exercises for developing the mind done in Buddhist monasteries.
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