Haemin Sunim Talks About Zen Wisdom for Life's Challenges A Productive Conversation

Welcome to this thought-provoking episode where I have the pleasure of speaking with Haemin Sunim, a Zen Buddhist teacher and celebrated author. Today, we delve into his latest book, When Things Don't Go Your Way: Zen Wisdom for Difficult Times, exploring the nuanced perspectives it offers on navigating the turbulent waters of life through the calming lens of Zen Buddhism. Haemin's unique writing style, which beautifully weaves together personal insights with quotes from various sources, makes the profound teachings of Zen accessible to all.
Haemin is one of the most influential Zen Buddhist teachers and writers in South Korea, where his books have sold more than three million copies and are popular as guides not only to mediation but also to overcoming the challenges of everyday life. Born in South Korea, he came to the United States to study film, only to find himself pulled into the spiritual life. Educated at UC Berkeley, Harvard, and Princeton, he received formal monastic training in Korea and taught Buddhism at Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts. He lives in Seoul when not traveling to share his teachings.
Our conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the therapeutic power of journaling to the subtle differences between contentment and happiness. Haemin shares his personal journey of facing fears head-on and finding peace in the present moment. His insights are not just philosophical musings but practical advice that can be seamlessly integrated into daily life. Through our dialogue, we uncover the layers of wisdom hidden in everyday experiences and discuss how to embrace life's imperfections gracefully.
Key Discussion Points

The importance of talking to one's fears to understand and overcome them.

Differentiating contentment from happiness: finding peace in acceptance.

The therapeutic benefits of journaling for uncovering and facing fears.

Embracing the present moment to find joy in everyday experiences.

The distinction between a "doing-centered" life and a "being-centered" life.

The significance of self-worth and appreciating the inherent value of life.

Facing and accepting uncomfortable emotions for personal growth and insight.


My conversation with Haemin Sunim offers a refreshing perspective on life's challenges and the pursuit of happiness. His wisdom encourages us to slow down, appreciate the present, and find contentment in the simplicity of being. Whether you're facing difficult times or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you, Haemin's insights provide a valuable guide for navigating life with grace and mindfulness.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Haemin: Website | X/Twitter | Instagram


Get Haemin's book: When Things Don't Go Your Way: Zen Wisdom for Difficult Times


Check out Haemin's body of work: Author Page


Related Conversation: Episode 138: Zen and The Art of Work with Kourosh Dini


Related Blog Post: How to Take a “Time Tour”



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices