Let’s be real, life is an absolute circus, and you? You’re just out here trying to juggle flaming chainsaws while dodging emotional wrecking balls. Whether it’s toxic relationships, career nightmares, or that one “friend” who somehow makes everything about themselves, staying sane feels like an Olympic sport.
Enter Buddhism, the chillest philosophy ever that somehow helps monks stay unbothered while sitting in caves for years. Lucky for you, you don’t have to become a monk to steal their wisdom. Here are seven Buddhist-inspired life hacks to keep you grounded when everything (and everyone) is testing your patience.
1. The Art of Non-Attachment: Stop Clutching at Straws
You know that ex you keep stalking on social media? Or that dream job you didn’t get? Buddhism says, Let. It. Go. Clinging to things, whether it’s people, status, or the fantasy that your life will start “once everything is perfect”, only brings suffering. The more you chase after happiness, the more it dodges you like a ghosting situationship.
TRY THIS: Write down everything you feel like you need to be happy. Now, burn that paper (safely, please). You are not your attachments. You are a whole vibe on your own.
2. Mindfulness: Be Where Your Feet Are
Your brain is either stuck in the past (regretting that dumb thing you said in 2014) or spiraling about the future (Will you ever retire? Will you die alone?). Mindfulness says, “Girl, breathe. Be here.” Because let’s be honest, overthinking has never actually solved your problems, it just gives you imaginary ones.
TRY THIS: Next time you catch yourself doom-scrolling, pause. Feel your feet on the ground. Listen to the sounds around you. Take a deep breath. Exist. Congrats, you just practiced mindfulness.
3. Impermanence: Nothing is Forever, So Stop Freaking Out
That horrible day you had? Won’t last forever. The gut-wrenching heartbreak? It’s temporary. Even that one coworker who lives to test your patience? One day, they’ll quit (or get fired, fingers crossed).
TRY THIS: When life sucks, repeat: This too shall pass. When life is amazing, repeat: This too shall pass. It’s both terrifying and freeing.
4. Compassion: Even Your Worst Enemy is a Hot Mess
That person who cut you off in traffic? The friend who ghosted you? They’re all just struggling humans with their own baggage. Buddhism teaches that compassion isn’t just for people who deserve it, it’s for everyone, including those who make your blood boil. (Yes, even Karen from HR.)
TRY THIS: Next time someone annoys you, instead of plotting their downfall, take a deep breath and say (internally, of course), “May you find peace… and better life choices.”
5. The Ego is a Scam: You’re Not That Special (In a Good Way)
That voice in your head telling you you’re not enough? Or, conversely, that you’re better than everyone else? Both are lies. Your ego wants you to believe you’re either a failure or the main character of the universe. The truth? You’re just another human doing their best, and that’s liberating.
TRY THIS: The next time you take something personally, remind yourself: No one is thinking about me as much as I think they are. Free yourself, queen.
6. Simplicity: More Stuff, More Problems
Buddhists live by simplicity, which is ironic considering most of us are drowning in clutter and impulse Amazon purchases. The truth? More stuff, more distractions, more stress. The less you own, the less owns you.
TRY THIS: Pick one thing to declutter today, your closet, your toxic friendships, your 237 unread emails. Breathe in, breathe out, and let go.
7. Joy in the Small Things: Stop Waiting for Happiness
If you keep thinking, “I’ll be happy when…” then you’ll never be happy. Joy isn’t in grand achievements, it’s in the little moments: the first sip of coffee, a dog wagging its tail, your favorite song coming on shuffle. Buddhism says happiness is now, not later.
TRY THIS: Keep a daily “small joys” list. Write down three tiny things that made you smile today. It rewires your brain to see the good (because let’s face it, your brain loves drama by default).
Final Thoughts (AKA Your Wake-Up Call)
Listen, life will always be messy. People will annoy you. Unexpected disasters will strike. But you? You can choose to stay grounded. You don’t have to be a full-on Buddha to apply these tips, just a slightly more zen version of yourself.
Now go forth, take a deep breath, and remember: You are not your overthinking, your ex, or your overflowing inbox. You are a whole, radiant being, just trying to survive in this chaotic, beautiful world.
Namaste, and may your WiFi always be strong.
