What Is Happiness: A Monk's Guide to a Happy Life

by Pomnyun Sunim

FROM KOREA'S MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

With profound wisdom and even greater warmth, Korea's best-loved monk Pomnyun Sunim shows us how to unlock inner happiness and become more resilient in the face of setbacks, small or large.

Pomnyum explains why we are all are prone to self-sabotage, and redirects that energy towards finding inner stillness and contentment. With gentleness and humour, he shows us that even when we are in the grip of events outside of our control, we can guide our reactions towards a state of wellbeing.

This transformative book has already touched countless lives and uplifted spirits in Korea, and this translated edition makes his insights available to a new audience of English readers.

Genres: Self Help

206 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 6, 2025

Reviews

[Rahdika K · Rating 3 out of 5]

In today’s fast-paced world, even the simple act of slowing down can feel countercultural. We are constantly encouraged to chase success, productivity, and external validation, often at the expense of our inner peace. So it is refreshing to come across a book that invites readers to pause and reflect on what truly brings happiness.

Rooted in Buddhist philosophy, this book offers a quiet, thoughtful exploration of happiness, not as a grand achievement, but as a daily practice.

It is structured in five parts, each addressing themes like why life rarely goes as planned, how our habits shape our emotions, how to live alongside differing opinions, and the importance of rethinking what happiness means. It closes by encouraging us to simply aim for being a little happier today than we were yesterday.

Each section is broken into short, digestible chapters, making it easy to read in small moments. The tone is calm and encouraging, and many of the ideas feel both grounded and universal. I found myself pausing often, not because the content was heavy, but because it gently invited reflection.

That said, some of the advice might feel overly simplistic or even a bit tone-deaf, especially if you are navigating deep personal struggles or trauma. It's important to note that this is not a substitute for therapy or individualized support.

While the book speaks in general terms about emotional resilience and peace, it occasionally assumes a level of stability or privilege that not all readers will relate to.

Still, I appreciated its sincerity and quiet wisdom. For those familiar with Buddhist principles, or anyone seeking a gentle nudge toward living more mindfully, this book offers plenty to reflect on. Not every idea will resonate equally, but many of them are worth carrying into everyday life.

Review copy sent by Definitelybooks #pansing.

[myliteraryworld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ven. Pomnyun Sunim, a revered Buddhist monk, Zen teacher and an advocate for social change offers a profound exploration of inner fulfillment in a world often obsessed with external validation. The book challenges to prioritize passion and purpose over societal markers of success thereby urging a shift from chasing wealth or status to embracing authenticity.

Central to Sunim’s philosophy is the notion of the “false self”, a rigid self-image we cling to which breeds insecurity or arrogance. By disentangling from this illusion, he argues we uncover a more genuine existence which is free from shame or self-deception.

Sunim delves into the ephemeral nature of emotions and their sudden emergence to sparks from flint. He encourages to interrogate the roots of feelings like anger or fear through mindful reflection. This critical self-awareness can dissolve destructive patterns replacing reactive outbursts or suppression with calm acceptance. Equally compelling is his discussion on habits. By consciously cultivating new behaviours we reshape our subconscious thereby altering not only daily routines but our life’s trajectory.

Structured into five sections, the book addresses why life often defies expectations, how habits shape emotions, navigating interpersonal conflicts, redefining joy and actionable steps to nurture happiness. Whether for a student grappling with existential doubts, a professional stifled by routine or a retiree seeking purpose, Sunim’s insights resonate universally.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm still processing my thoughts on this book, but it definitely struck a chord. The author brilliantly articulated the everyday emotional battles with anger, anxiety, and disappointment that many of us face, and I particularly appreciated their candid struggle with practicing kindness in a sometimes unkind world. However, I found myself questioning some of the starkly presented examples, feeling that real-life situations often demand more than a black-and-white approach. Despite this, the book ultimately provided a powerful nudge to re-examine my perspective and actively seek happiness in a less-than-perfect world.

[G C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a must read for anyone struggling with direction and everyday anxiety. This book was much deeper and profound than I originally expected. Pomnyun Sunim encourages us to ask the hard questions and look within ourselves to truly move forward. The message is so simple yet profound and I think many can benefit from his teachings in everyday life.

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buddhist monk Pomnyun Sunim provides coherent and useful advice on dealing with our daily anxiety, insecurity, anger, and discouragement to consistently find our inner truth and happiness.

[I received an advanced reader copy via Netgalley.]

[Sameer · Rating 3 out of 5]

decent read to clear your mind n get a perspective on basics.