Description:
In "Pay Attention, for Goodness' Sake," renowned Buddhist teacher and psychologist Sylvia Boorstein offers a warm and accessible guide to living a life of kindness, both toward oneself and others. The book's title encapsulates its core message: that the simple act of paying attention—with a gentle and compassionate heart—is the foundation of spiritual practice and personal well-being. Boorstein, known for her down-to-earth wisdom and humor, blends traditional Buddhist teachings with modern psychological insights and personal anecdotes.
The book explores the "Six Perfections," ancient Buddhist practices that include generosity, patience, and kindness. Boorstein explains how these qualities are not reserved for special moments but can be cultivated in the midst of daily life, from a traffic jam to a difficult conversation. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, teaching that by treating ourselves with kindness, we create a foundation for all other forms of healing. For those in recovery, "Pay Attention, for Goodness' Sake" is an invaluable resource for breaking the cycle of self-criticism and shame, and for building a life of greater peace, connection, and joy.
Study Guide for Recovery
This study guide is designed to help you explore the concepts in "Pay Attention, for Goodness' Sake" and apply them to your own journey of recovery.
Key Themes & Concepts
- Mindfulness and Kindness: The book emphasizes that mindfulness is most powerful when it is rooted in a sense of kindness and self-compassion.
- The Six Perfections: The book provides a framework for cultivating qualities like generosity, patience, and compassion, which are all essential for a stable and fulfilling recovery.
- The Practice of Self-Compassion: A core teaching is that true healing begins with treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a dear friend.
- Awakening in the Everyday: Boorstein teaches that all moments, both difficult and joyful, are opportunities to practice awareness and kindness.
Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to "pay attention, for goodness' sake"? What is one moment today where you can intentionally bring a kind and gentle awareness to your experience?
- The book encourages a focus on self-compassion. What is one way you can be kinder to yourself today, especially regarding a past mistake or a current struggle?
- Think about one of the Six Perfections, like patience or generosity. How can practicing this quality help you to navigate a difficult craving or a challenging relationship?
- Boorstein suggests that kindness to others begins with kindness to oneself. How has practicing self-compassion helped you to be more compassionate with your family, friends, or others in recovery?
- What is one specific action you can take this week to bring more kindness and a gentle awareness to your daily routine?
Additional Resources
- Website: The Sylvia Boorstein Official Site:
- Explore the author's official website for more on her books, teachings, and guided meditations. http://www.sylviaboorstein.com/
- Video: "Sylvia Boorstein on Self-Compassion":
- Watch a short video where the author shares her humorous and heartfelt insights on the importance of self-compassion. (Search "Sylvia Boorstein self-compassion" on YouTube.)
- Article: "The Role of Self-Compassion in Addiction Recovery":
- This article from a recovery-focused publication provides a great overview of why self-compassion is a critical tool for healing and preventing relapse. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/rethinking-addiction/201602/self-compassion-and-addiction-recovery
- Resource: The Buddhist Recovery Network:
- This organization supports the use of Buddhist principles and practices to support recovery from addiction, including guidance on mindful approaches. https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/
