The Monk Manual …
… appealed to me as soon as I saw it. I had learned years before how monks keep a rhythm in their days and weeks. I love the idea of a journal to help people focus on the most important priorities and tasks with joy, even amidst adversity.
I began using the Monk Manual to mentor students when I helped launch, Thales College and wrote the guide below to help them. I am also a Monk Manual affiliate if you would like to order their products at a discount (applied at checkout).
The Monk Manual creator, Steven Lawson, has a sparkling introduction and guide to get started today. Below is another approach I wrote with students in mind.
Starting the Monk Manual—Short Version
The Monk Manual is a powerful tool for growth, but it can look overwhelming at first glance. To get started, remember these three things:
No rule says you have to fill in every line or space.
It’s enough to identify one priority and the task/s to complete it.
If you miss a day, don’t worry about it. Make planning a priority tomorrow.
Starting the Monk Manual—Long Version
Think of using the Monk Manual as “a practice.” You practice a sport, a musical instrument, an art, and a profession by doing it most days. At first, you’re not very good at it. Then you get better and start to enjoy it. Finally you’re really good at it, perform at a high level, get creative, learn about yourself and others, and share it.
It’s a little like that with the Monk Manual. You practice thinking about what matters most to you--your priorities--and the habits that enable you to succeed. You practice recalling what you’re grateful for and looking forward to. You become good at reflecting on the bright spots, the shadows, and the changes you can make for the better.