Shantideva’s Bodhicaryavatara teaches that compassion and wisdom aren’t lofty ideals reserved for temple walls but everyday tools anyone can pick up. First off, set a heartfelt intention each morning—ask whether today’s actions will ease someone’s burden or add to it. Think of motivation as the engine oil for your day: without it, everything grinds to a halt.

Generosity, even in a pinch, goes a long way. A small coffee treat for a stressed coworker or a quick text cheering on a friend can be the silver lining in someone’s afternoon. It’s the “butterfly effect” of kindness: tiny ripples can spread far. Meanwhile, whenever frustration bubbles up—be it in a gridlocked commute or a tense Zoom call—patience is the secret weapon. Rather than letting irritation fester, practice a few long breaths, visualizing that tension melting away.

Speech matters, too. Shantideva urges nipping harmful words in the bud. Swapping gossip for genuine praise not only lifts others but also lightens one’s own heart. Imagine how different social media might look if every comment section offered applause instead of debate—today’s viral negativity could be a thing of the past.

Another gem: rejoice in others’ success. In an era where “compare and despair” reigns—thanks to curated Instagram feeds—training the mind to celebrate someone else’s promotion or victory dismantles jealousy brick by brick. It’s not just feel-good fluff; science shows that mutual support fosters resilience, especially as communities rebuild after wildfires or navigate the latest economic jitters.

Finally, transform obstacles into opportunities. When deadlines loom or personal setbacks sting, treat them like makeshift stepping stones rather than walls. Tonglen meditation—breathing in others’ pain and exhaling relief—serves as a daily reminder that personal struggles connect with the wider human story. By swapping “me versus the world” for “all of us together,” each challenge becomes fertile ground for growth.

Putting these teachings into practice feels less like a chore and more like cultivating a garden: patience, kindness, mindful speech and solidarity are seeds that blossom into something truly evergreen.