What do you think?
Rate this book
Everyday Enlightenment: The 12 Gateways to Personal Growth
EVERYDAY ENLIGHTENMENT may be most complete description available of the entire field generally referred to as personal growth, development, evolution. The "everyday" aspect reflects Dan's emphasis on daily life as the means and source of true spiritual growth (rather than in a cave or ashram). This book reveals how to actually practice an enlightened approach to daily life through twelve “gateways” we all encounter in the course of our lives. These gateways reveal the purpose of the challenges we meet, and radically redefines the meaning (and full scope) of a successful life. These twelve gateways: keys to worth, will, energy, money, mind, intuition, emotions, fear, shadow, sexuality, heart, and service, represent twelve books in one, a clear map of the territory of human potential. Here is a complete guide to the major practical and spiritual challenges (and solutions) we face. It culminates with a final chapter worth far more than the price of the book: “The Practice of Enlightenment” — a radical approach to living wisely and well.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2018
83 people are currently reading
1013 people want to read
About the author
Dan Millman
116 books1,177 followersDaniel Jay Millman is an American author and lecturer in the personal development field. He is best-known for the movie Peaceful Warrior, which is based on his own life and taken from one of his books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 2, 2018
After completing Millman's Peaceful Warrior meditation course I wanted to read something of his work. I think the foundational premise is correct and the organizational structure sound... but the overall tone of the book doesn't sit well with me. Perhaps 20 years ago it would have resonated, but the "just do it" and "act like it (enlightenment) is true makes it true" are outdated. Neuroplasticity research has shown that there is more to our behavioral choices than self-discipline. I wanted to like this book more than I do, and that makes leaning into the work not very attractive.
August 12, 2008
A packaged feel-good self-help book that manages to talk about everything and nothing.
The advice is mostly common sense - the rest is superficial b.s. I'm planning to leave this one somewhere for someone else to pick up - maybe they'll enjoy it more than I did.
The advice is mostly common sense - the rest is superficial b.s. I'm planning to leave this one somewhere for someone else to pick up - maybe they'll enjoy it more than I did.
July 1, 2009
I read one chapter of this book a month, taking time to really absorb it. It takes a look at all aspects of life and how you can make real changes, a little at a time. A practical guide to something nobody can really define, but we all feel on some level.
March 20, 2024
Just no. The main messages I took away from this book were “just do it”, and “daydream about where you want to be when times are tough”. Overall gives me weird culty vibes. Last time I pick up a self help book from the 90s.
November 3, 2010
This makes me feel a lot better about myself. Kinda like, I wished I had a better car, but then I realize my car is fine. I just need to give it some TLC.
You can start reading this from anywhere and it's a pleasure to go back and re-read. This is like spiritual reference material.
On the back cover:
"The time is now. The road is open. Your destiny awaits."
How can one not be compelled to read this?
You can start reading this from anywhere and it's a pleasure to go back and re-read. This is like spiritual reference material.
On the back cover:
"The time is now. The road is open. Your destiny awaits."
How can one not be compelled to read this?
May 28, 2008
After reading the Peaceful Warrior I thought I'd give this one a try since Millman's story and his learnings with his spiritual guide were a true story, and it was actually pretty good. It describes a lot of "little" things one can do in everyday life to make the best of it and live a life of growth and fulfillment.
January 23, 2008
This book is really similar to "No ordinary Moments", so I would recommend that one, but if you are into Millman, read it.
May 24, 2007
I keep this book out and read the different Gateways over and over.
"How good can you stand it today?" ~Millman
"How good can you stand it today?" ~Millman
August 10, 2011
Absolutly will cause emotional and spiritual growth-Loved it.
March 16, 2025
Practical
This book has a very special meaning to me. A woman I dearly love, who was my fiancé and lives on the other side of the world, wanted to watch a movie, and so I offered to watch a movie called "Peaceful Warrior" which we both enjoyed. At the end of the movie, during the credits, it said, written by Dan Milman, based on a true story (or something of that sort).
The next day, we went to a second-hand bookstore, and I went through the bookshelves to find a special book that called to me. She found several, but I had some trouble as I am very picky and allow my intuition to guide me. Finally, I came across "Everyday Enlightenment: The Twelve Gateways to Personal Growth," and I took it. The guy at the bookstore said it was free, and I was happy.
When we arrived home, I looked at the book and saw the name "Dan Milman" at the bottom. I asked myself, where do I remember that name from? Then it hit me, and I said, "Darling! This is a book from the same person that we watched the movie of yesterday!"
The book itself was good, and some gateways spoke to me more than others, which is understandable. It's a dialectical process through all the gateways, reaching deeper layers in each one. I think that living every moment from an enlightened position slowly allows you to step into enlightenment or rather tune back to your being.
This book has a very special meaning to me. A woman I dearly love, who was my fiancé and lives on the other side of the world, wanted to watch a movie, and so I offered to watch a movie called "Peaceful Warrior" which we both enjoyed. At the end of the movie, during the credits, it said, written by Dan Milman, based on a true story (or something of that sort).
The next day, we went to a second-hand bookstore, and I went through the bookshelves to find a special book that called to me. She found several, but I had some trouble as I am very picky and allow my intuition to guide me. Finally, I came across "Everyday Enlightenment: The Twelve Gateways to Personal Growth," and I took it. The guy at the bookstore said it was free, and I was happy.
When we arrived home, I looked at the book and saw the name "Dan Milman" at the bottom. I asked myself, where do I remember that name from? Then it hit me, and I said, "Darling! This is a book from the same person that we watched the movie of yesterday!"
The book itself was good, and some gateways spoke to me more than others, which is understandable. It's a dialectical process through all the gateways, reaching deeper layers in each one. I think that living every moment from an enlightened position slowly allows you to step into enlightenment or rather tune back to your being.
August 19, 2024
With enlightenment, everything changes and nothing changes. And that makes all the difference in the world. You already have it. You already are it. And you must find it.
I am awake.
Constructive unhurried compassionate relaxed good humored balanced.
Energy clarity, courage, authenticity, kindness and service.
Be gentle with yourself.
Life is to enjoy.
I am awake.
Constructive unhurried compassionate relaxed good humored balanced.
Energy clarity, courage, authenticity, kindness and service.
Be gentle with yourself.
Life is to enjoy.
February 2, 2025
Great book
I loved this book especially the last chapter on service and enlightenment. For those seeking enlightenment Dan suggests acting as if you were enlightened which I thought was good advice. I really love his writing style which makes for a great book. Would highly recommend. I’ve read several other books by Dan and I loved them as well.
I loved this book especially the last chapter on service and enlightenment. For those seeking enlightenment Dan suggests acting as if you were enlightened which I thought was good advice. I really love his writing style which makes for a great book. Would highly recommend. I’ve read several other books by Dan and I loved them as well.
July 5, 2017
Not earth shattering here but at the same time I think there were some good takeaways particularly about keeping it in perspective. I did enjoy some of the discussion about what enlightenment means all in all not necessarily highly recommended but not a waste of time either.
March 15, 2022
pretty good and somewhat thought provoking, I read it years ago. I read it at a time when I needed confirmation that I mattered, but it is more than that. He provides new ways of looking at events in our lives. I’m not religious but it provides aspects of spirituality that I hadn’t before pondered.
February 24, 2024
Enlightenment is not about becoming the Buddha but the awareness that I am already the Buddha and practice His Wisdom, Compassion and Loving Kindness moment by moment. The Way? Give intensive attention to What is and see the Beauty in it. 🥳🎉🥰
October 14, 2024
I took this all in 20 years ago. It doesn't stick though. No replacement for therapy and meds. But they. Might not work either. I still remember quotes from this. Hasn't hugely changed my life like it promises too tho
November 7, 2007
This guidebook by Dan Millman has useful and wise information for everyone. This book is not your typical trite self-help book that's been rehashed 1000 times.
Dan Millman has done extensive training in meditative disciplines, mystical practices, and other endeavors in the search for enlightenment. While he found these practices to be highly inspirational and wise, he also realized that these practices didn't do any good if you couldn't perform your everyday tasks in an enlightened manner. Thus-Everyday Enlightenment.
The book offers 12 practical and well thought-out-of areas or gateways to pass through for optimal growth as a person emotionally, physically and spiritually. Some of the gateways are: self-worth, money, health, emotions, taming the mind, trusting your intuition, sexuality, love, and serving others. As you apply the suggestions in each chapter you'll find yourself becoming more successful with that particular gateway. When you combine all the insights and wisdom you've learned from the gateways you can't help but live in a more satisfied way.
Dan makes it clear that none of us are ever going to perfect these gateways. They serve as signs and guides to lead us on the path of continual improvement. After all, enlightenment is what you do in the moment. In other words, it's the moment-to-moment awareness and actions that we bring to the present that make us enlightened. No one is ever completely enlightened-they just act more enlightened than others in their day-to-day affairs.
I found many of the anecdotes in the book to be inspirational. Especially inspirational was the chapter about serving others. There are many wonderful stories of people doing extraordinary acts of kindness to help others. If you don't find these moving you might want to get your pulse checked.
The wonderful thing about this book is that Dan writes in a clear fashion that is highly accessible to anyone. He also offers practical examples that aren't just fancy esoteric abstractions. Another thing of importance is that the information in this book doesn't depend on your personal beliefs, sexuality, religion or anything similar. The information rises above factional differences to a unified place that works for all humanity. However, you have to have the effort and willpower to apply the lessons taught.
What makes Dan's writing so impressive is that from these common bonds of enlightenment that apply to all of humanity he elaborates on them in a way that has personal meaning. He doesn't preach to people but accepts them as they are and shows them a path to take. He realizes that everyone's path is a little different but at the same time it's the same as well...The paradox of enlightenment. Read this book for yourself and start applying the techniques and lessons contained therein. This will open up a move vivid picture of reality that creates happiness, enlightenment, and awakening.
Dan Millman has done extensive training in meditative disciplines, mystical practices, and other endeavors in the search for enlightenment. While he found these practices to be highly inspirational and wise, he also realized that these practices didn't do any good if you couldn't perform your everyday tasks in an enlightened manner. Thus-Everyday Enlightenment.
The book offers 12 practical and well thought-out-of areas or gateways to pass through for optimal growth as a person emotionally, physically and spiritually. Some of the gateways are: self-worth, money, health, emotions, taming the mind, trusting your intuition, sexuality, love, and serving others. As you apply the suggestions in each chapter you'll find yourself becoming more successful with that particular gateway. When you combine all the insights and wisdom you've learned from the gateways you can't help but live in a more satisfied way.
Dan makes it clear that none of us are ever going to perfect these gateways. They serve as signs and guides to lead us on the path of continual improvement. After all, enlightenment is what you do in the moment. In other words, it's the moment-to-moment awareness and actions that we bring to the present that make us enlightened. No one is ever completely enlightened-they just act more enlightened than others in their day-to-day affairs.
I found many of the anecdotes in the book to be inspirational. Especially inspirational was the chapter about serving others. There are many wonderful stories of people doing extraordinary acts of kindness to help others. If you don't find these moving you might want to get your pulse checked.
The wonderful thing about this book is that Dan writes in a clear fashion that is highly accessible to anyone. He also offers practical examples that aren't just fancy esoteric abstractions. Another thing of importance is that the information in this book doesn't depend on your personal beliefs, sexuality, religion or anything similar. The information rises above factional differences to a unified place that works for all humanity. However, you have to have the effort and willpower to apply the lessons taught.
What makes Dan's writing so impressive is that from these common bonds of enlightenment that apply to all of humanity he elaborates on them in a way that has personal meaning. He doesn't preach to people but accepts them as they are and shows them a path to take. He realizes that everyone's path is a little different but at the same time it's the same as well...The paradox of enlightenment. Read this book for yourself and start applying the techniques and lessons contained therein. This will open up a move vivid picture of reality that creates happiness, enlightenment, and awakening.
September 28, 2015
"When people ask me abstract questions about time, or space, or reincarnation, I may respond by asking whether they exercise regularly, eat a wholesome diet, get enough sleep, show kindness to others, and remember to take a slow, deep breath on occasion--because it seems important to bring our spiritual quest down to earth. Of course, there's nothing wrong with philosophical speculation. But let's not mistake conceptual thought for the spiritual practice of everyday life. After all, what does it serve to know whether angels wear earrings if we can't hold a regular job or maintain a long-term relationship? What good does it do to pray like a saint or meditate like a yogi if we are unchanged when we open our eyes? What good to attend a place of worship on Saturday or Sunday if we lack compassion on Monday?"
~ Dan Millman from Everyday Enlightenment
Dan Millman has easily been one of the biggest influences in my life.
I was given his book Way of the Peaceful Warrior almost exactly a decade ago when I was a 25- year old CEO running my first business (eteamz.com) during the dot com boom of the 90's. The market had just crashed and we were about to go from 45 employees to 14 before selling the biz. Dan's wisdom helped navigate that juncture of my life... and many since!
In fact, he was the first author I loved so much that I went out and read all of his stuff. Some of my favorites (that I think you'll also dig) include: Way of the Peaceful Warrior and Everyday Enlightenment (of course), Body Mind Mastery, The Life You Were Born to Live and Living on Purpose.
(Also, since that first read, Dan and I have gotten a chance to play some chess and share some great conversations and it's been a pleasure to see a Peaceful Warrior in action in Everyday life. :)
A former world champion gymnast and coach at Stanford and UC Berkeley, he's an awesome blend of East and West--with an unflinching focus on the PRACTICAL aspects of spirituality.
In Everyday Enlightenment, Dan explores what he calls the "Twelve Gateways to Personal Growth": Discover Your Worth; Reclaim Your Will; Energize Your Body; Manage Your Money; Tame Your Mind; Trust Your Intuition; Accept Your Emotions; Face Your Fears; Illuminate Your Shadow; Embrace Your Sexuality; Awaken Your Heart; and, Serve Your World.
I'm excited to share some of the Big Ideas:
Discover Your Worth - The 1st gateway.
"St. Nike" Was Right - Just do it!
Habits: - Desired & undesired.
Carpe Punctum - Seize the moment, yo!
Daredevils - Are terrified, too.
Here's to gracefully walking thru the twelve gateways and, of course: Carpe punctum!
-----
Here's my video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpfH3...
And click here to find 250+ more of my reviews:
http://bit.ly/BrianReviews
Brian
~ Dan Millman from Everyday Enlightenment
Dan Millman has easily been one of the biggest influences in my life.
I was given his book Way of the Peaceful Warrior almost exactly a decade ago when I was a 25- year old CEO running my first business (eteamz.com) during the dot com boom of the 90's. The market had just crashed and we were about to go from 45 employees to 14 before selling the biz. Dan's wisdom helped navigate that juncture of my life... and many since!
In fact, he was the first author I loved so much that I went out and read all of his stuff. Some of my favorites (that I think you'll also dig) include: Way of the Peaceful Warrior and Everyday Enlightenment (of course), Body Mind Mastery, The Life You Were Born to Live and Living on Purpose.
(Also, since that first read, Dan and I have gotten a chance to play some chess and share some great conversations and it's been a pleasure to see a Peaceful Warrior in action in Everyday life. :)
A former world champion gymnast and coach at Stanford and UC Berkeley, he's an awesome blend of East and West--with an unflinching focus on the PRACTICAL aspects of spirituality.
In Everyday Enlightenment, Dan explores what he calls the "Twelve Gateways to Personal Growth": Discover Your Worth; Reclaim Your Will; Energize Your Body; Manage Your Money; Tame Your Mind; Trust Your Intuition; Accept Your Emotions; Face Your Fears; Illuminate Your Shadow; Embrace Your Sexuality; Awaken Your Heart; and, Serve Your World.
I'm excited to share some of the Big Ideas:
Discover Your Worth - The 1st gateway.
"St. Nike" Was Right - Just do it!
Habits: - Desired & undesired.
Carpe Punctum - Seize the moment, yo!
Daredevils - Are terrified, too.
Here's to gracefully walking thru the twelve gateways and, of course: Carpe punctum!
-----
Here's my video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpfH3...
And click here to find 250+ more of my reviews:
http://bit.ly/BrianReviews
Brian
January 16, 2016
I have seen this book on the shelves of used book stores so many times and never bought it because I thought I had read it years ago. I saw it again and thought I'd give it another read. Turns out, I never read it! So glad I bought it.
I'm not typically a fan of books or articles that have titles containing the words "7 steps to..." "10 steps to...," etc. and this book contains "12 Gateways to..." so I wasn't expecting much except basics. Further, I was expecting the old "just love everybody, smile be happy, you can be enlightened at all times" routine that has become so cliche. Happily, I was wrong on all counts! Millman has substance.
This paragraph pretty much sums up the book: "...life is made up of a series of moments and...no one is nice, or intelligent, or dull, or neurotic, or enlightened all the time. It is simply not realistic. So the practice of enlightenment should not be taken as some kind of idealized, all-the-time-pie-in-the-sky perfection. Rather, the title and promise of this book - Everyday Enlightenment - is about creating more enlightened moments every day, moments that illuminate...Remember that life is a work in progress. Trying to 'have it all together' all the time is like trying to eat once and for all."
I'm not typically a fan of books or articles that have titles containing the words "7 steps to..." "10 steps to...," etc. and this book contains "12 Gateways to..." so I wasn't expecting much except basics. Further, I was expecting the old "just love everybody, smile be happy, you can be enlightened at all times" routine that has become so cliche. Happily, I was wrong on all counts! Millman has substance.
This paragraph pretty much sums up the book: "...life is made up of a series of moments and...no one is nice, or intelligent, or dull, or neurotic, or enlightened all the time. It is simply not realistic. So the practice of enlightenment should not be taken as some kind of idealized, all-the-time-pie-in-the-sky perfection. Rather, the title and promise of this book - Everyday Enlightenment - is about creating more enlightened moments every day, moments that illuminate...Remember that life is a work in progress. Trying to 'have it all together' all the time is like trying to eat once and for all."
January 31, 2012
Dan Millman, in this book, shows the reader the many gateways that we need to pass in order to realize our true selves and in order to take a greater control of our lives. The challenge shown here is to live life with an every day, moment-to-moment awareness of one's own actions; to act with a fearless, one step in front of the other awareness, a consciousness of being. If you are present to confront your fears, to peer into those dark places that keep you in the shadows. This book leaves no stones unturned. Everyday Enlightenment, is not only about knowing more, but doing more. It's not what you know but what you do about what you know. It's the application that counts. There are many wonderful strategies in this book that if applied, can truly change your life. Be willing to change your addictive patterns in your life. That's the key, USE this book and see a new you. Everyday Enlightment: the title says it all. I recommend this book to anyone who is feeling that their life is dazed and confused, it truly does reconnect you with your souls deepest yearnings. Read it and change your life today. Put them way high for Dan Millman.
October 2, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It's quite long & I did not enjoy some chapters as much as others however I love the focal point of this book: Enlightenment is not something you meditate on, it is something you LIVE. and really, no extra time reading your Bible or praying will get you there. This book reminds me to above anything, trust my intuiton. I think the first gateway is the best & most important. Without self-worth, you don't have the motivation to do any of the rest. I love the principle that you cannot control your emotions, only what you DO with them. If you feel depressed, that's fine. What's not fine is sitting in a haze of self- pity. You can change your life & you yourself have the power to do this. I read this book one chapter every week or so (I fell off for a few weeks but I'm glad I forced myself back in). This is probably not a book to be read like anovel, but rather you should practice each gateway maybe for a month (seems daunting but think in only one year of your life you can unlock your inner enlightenment- it's really NOT a long time). This book presents the fact that we are all enlightened, and we all know what is best for ourselves. I definitely recommend.
June 5, 2018
I recommend reading Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman first to see if this book would be for you. This is more of a guidebook on living well similar to some other Dan Millman books. I found it very meaningful in my early 20's.
Some quotes:
- "We normally associate relaxation with the stillness of sleep, trance, or meditation. But life is movement, so relaxation-in-motion is the highest form."
- In terms of business and valuing your work: "Don't charge less. Give more."
- "A magnificent leap of awareness occurs when our beliefs become conscious, the instant we recognize them as our truth rather than as the truth."
- "Many of us with low self-esteem feel insecure because we have based our esteem upon an artificially constructed mask; the result is not self-esteem, but self-image esteem.
Some quotes:
- "We normally associate relaxation with the stillness of sleep, trance, or meditation. But life is movement, so relaxation-in-motion is the highest form."
- In terms of business and valuing your work: "Don't charge less. Give more."
- "A magnificent leap of awareness occurs when our beliefs become conscious, the instant we recognize them as our truth rather than as the truth."
- "Many of us with low self-esteem feel insecure because we have based our esteem upon an artificially constructed mask; the result is not self-esteem, but self-image esteem.
June 18, 2008
best book for developing yourself. common sense, but practice, too. if you read this, do the work that goes with it OR DON'T BOTHER. it's things you know, but need to practice.
October 7, 2008
Yes. I admit that I read books on personal development. What?
October 10, 2010
Great book full of suggestions to help your life be more meaningful.
June 20, 2012
Just started this one today, but am anxious to dig into it!
July 1, 2023
A work in progress.
October 20, 2023
A second reading of this beauty 👌👌👌
January 15, 2016
Amazing Book
The most succinct and clear summary of everything I have learned in my life to this moment. Awakened and alive.
The most succinct and clear summary of everything I have learned in my life to this moment. Awakened and alive.
August 8, 2016
Really enjoy this book, quite different to other personal development books I have read and this one kept me interested throughout.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews