Work Like a Monk: A Buddhist Guide to Embracing What Matters

by Shoukei Matsumoto

An engaging exploration of what makes work meaningful, by a popular Buddhist monk and cultural commentator

In our hectic days filled with long hours, endless emails, and tedious virtual meetings, it’s hard to stay connected to the higher purpose of work – to see past the grind and embrace what we’re really trying to achieve.

In this engaging and illuminating book, Japanese Buddhist monk Shoukei Matsumoto offers a fresh take on what it means to find satisfaction at work. Presented in the form of an imagined conversation between a Western businessperson and a temple priest, this far-ranging exploration covers everything from embracing simplicity and communicating with clarity to the importance of daily rituals, insights on avoiding burnout, and even what it means to be a good ancestor. Along the way, you’ll discover ancient wisdom and contemporary ideas – all thoughtfully presented in the context of modern daily life.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this meaningful guide offers a fresh perspective, and more intentional way forward.

172 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 3, 2026

Reviews

[Henry]

Siddhartha Gautama would be an awesome PM

[Chan Britton · Rating 1 out of 5]

The best part of this book was the afterward where I finally understood what was going on. I didn't resonate this book and found this to be super circular and not at all profound or meaningful. I would say 30 percent of the book was related to the title, the rest seemed like a convincing to become a Buddhist.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice and quiet little peaceful read ; ]