How to Follow a Guru

Buddhists often follow gurus.

A guru can be a religious leader such as the Dalai Lama, or a guru can be someone who is a master of something you want to learn. A guru can also be a mentor, someone who acts as a leader in your job or other areas of you life. Following a guru is as simple as observing, listening and researching so that you can learn what you want from your guru or so that you can achieve a particular lifestyle.

Instructions

1. Learn as much as you can about your guru in relation to the subject of your interest. If your guru is a mentor at your job, learn about her background and special training.

2. Meet at a regular time with your guru to discuss your progress in your area of interest. If your guru is an international figure, such as the Dalai Lama, spend time studying his writings and learning about his beliefs.

3. Ask your guru to provide feedback about your progress. For example, if your guru is an artist ask her to critique your work and offer advice.

4. Participate in a specific activity your guru recommends. For example, if you are following a writing guru, you can try writing exercises that your guru uses to generate ideas. If your guru is a religious leader, attend ceremonies and meetings in that religion.

Tips & Warnings

• Be suspicious of spiritual guides who ask you for money or who instruct you to cut off contact with family or friends. Remember that a guru is a guide. You are still in control of your own actions and decisions.

References

• View On Buddhism: Why Follow a Guru
• US Office of Personnel Management: Mentoring
• Kheper: Overview of a Few Eastern and Western Gurus and Masters
• Rick Ross: Brainwashed by a New Age Guru