21 Life-Changing Lessons From The Dalai Lama's Twitter Account

    Peace and compassion above all else.

    1. We are all in control of our own paths.

    The quality of our actions, whether they are positive or negative, depends on our motivation. This is why we have to transform our minds.

    2. Material things won't make you happy.

    A meaningful life isn't about acquiring money and other facilities; it’s about dedicating your life to helping others as much as you can.

    3. But compassion is.

    Compassion is what makes our lives meaningful.

    4. Being kind requires you to kee other people in mind.

    Human happiness depends on taking others into account.

    5. Religion by itself is not the only answer to the world's problems.

    It’s unrealistic to think that the future of humanity can be achieved only on the basis of prayer, what we need is to take action.

    6. Honesty is essential to leading a fulfilled life.

    It is always helpful to remain honest and truthful in the face of difficulty.

    7. Basically, honesty is the key to everything.

    If you are honest, truthful, and transparent, people trust you. If people trust you, you have no grounds for fear, suspicion or jealousy.

    8. The only way to create your wants and desires is through your own actions.

    Everybody wants a happy life and a peaceful mind, but we have to produce peace of mind through our own practice.

    9. It's good to have dreams, but it's even better to have realistic goals.

    No matter what our motivation may be, if we are not realistic we will not fulfil our goal.

    10. Don't underestimate the power of forgiveness.

    Forgiveness is how we put a stop to anger, ill-will and a desire for revenge.

    11. All human beings have something in common: the fact that we all belong to the human race.

    Despite the superficial differences between us, we need to have a sense that all 7 billion human beings belong to one human family.

    12. Fear isn't always a bad thing.

    Fear that makes us run from a mad dog is useful and necessary, whereas fear rooted in mistrust is unhelpful and needs to be overcome.

    13. You have to take matters into your own hands.

    If you want change, create the causes.

    14. There's always a silver lining.

    If tragedy strikes, don’t lose hope. Transform it into an opportunity to make things better.

    15. Mental health and happiness should be prioritized just as much as physical health.

    Just as we teach about physical hygiene in the interest of good health, we now need to teach about mental or emotional hygiene too.

    16. Compassion can also help achieve better mental health standards.

    As you develop a more compassionate attitude, you feel less anxiety, while your determination and self-confidence increase.

    17. Friendship is about give and take — it's not a one-way street.

    Genuine friendship depends on genuine affection and taking a sense of responsibility for each other.

    18. Everyone should care about the quality of the world around them.

    As human beings, we have a common responsibility to build a more peaceful society.

    19. Change doesn't come naturally — you have to work for it.

    Improvement requires continuous effort.

    20. Children are the future.

    Today's children are hugely important, our hopes for the future lie in their hands and rest on their shoulders.

    21. Don't just focus on yourself — worry about the love and gifts you can give others.

    More important than being loved is to love.