Discover a transformative journey grounded in universal human values that have inspired individuals across the globe for over a millennium. The 16 Guidelines for Life offer a practical and profound framework to foster personal growth, improve relationships, and contribute positively to your community and the world.
Warm heart,
Wise mind,
Happy life.
The 16 Guidelines
The 16 Guidelines are simple steps for a happier life, inspired His Holiness by the Dalai Lama. They teach us to manage our thoughts, actions, and connections positively. They revolve around four key themes: thinking wisely, acting kindly, building strong relationships, and embracing change for deeper meaning. This approach promises not just personal joy but a better world for all.
The 16 Guidelines are underpinned by four philosophical themes:
1. How we
think
The way we use our mind determines the way we live:
1. Humility
2. Patience
3. Contentment
4. Delight
2. How we
act
Every skilful action makes for a better world:
5. Kindness
6. Honesty
7. Generosity
8. Right Speech
3. How we
relate
To take care of others is to take care of ourselves:
9. Respect
10. Forgiveness
11. Gratitude
12. Loyalty
4. How we
find meaning
If everything is changing, many things are possible:
13. Aspiration
14. Principles
15. Service
16. Courage
Watch these #shorts about the 16 Guidelines
Want to learn more about the 16 Guidelines? Watch this series of short series of animations for a quick introduction to each of the 16 Guidelines.
Feeling Better
starts with
Living Better
Embark on a transformative journey with the 16 Guidelines for Life. Download the book today in our store and unlock the door to personal growth, deeper understanding, and meaningful change in every aspect of your life.
Begin your 16 Guidelines Journey today!
Interested but unsure where to start? If you want to explore the 16 Guidelines at home, why not try out our 16G self study course, 16G app or the 16G book.
Seeking new inspiration and calm in your life? Download the 16 Guidelines for a Happy Life App and take a few minutes to reconnect with yourself. Discover fun ways to make a positive difference to your family, friends and workplace.
Our 30-day self-study course provides a perfect introduction to the 16 Guidelines for Life, offering bite-sized meditations and daily journaling to integrate wisdom and compassion into every aspect of your life.
The 16 Guidelines for Life: The Basics provides a comprehensive introduction to the 16 Guidelines with thought-provoking interpretations, role models and guided reflections.
Embark on a Journey of Personal Discovery
“I have just completed the [Building Inner Strength: Core Values for a Happy Life] Self-Study Course and have found it excellent. It is incredibly accessible, clear and practical in terms of honing how we think, act, relate and find meaning to experience and spread more happiness. The 16 Guidelines are such great universal pieces of wisdom for all, and the way the course is structured and organised works really well.”
— Heather from Australia
Learn More About the 16 Guidelines
We have a collection of articles based on the 16 Guidelines to help you navigate, understand and begin putting them into practice.
What is Courage? Courage is a quality that resonates with us all, guiding us through life’s twists and turns with...
Introduction to The Importance of Serving Others Welcome! In this exploration of the importance of serving others, we find inspiration...
Introduction to Principles Principles are the fundamental beliefs and values that serve as the foundation for our actions, decisions, and...
Over the last year, we have been exploring the steps of the Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom’s (FDCW) 16 guidelines...
Over the year, we have been exploring the steps of the Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom’s (FDCW) 16 guidelines series in...
Explore the complexities of forgiveness, its far-reaching physical and mental benefits, and why it's a transformative journey towards peace.
...Discover the profound impact of respect in daily life. Explore ways to nurture respect, foster success, and build meaningful...
The society in which we live encourages our hunger for more. More achievements, more wealth, more followers, more everything! However,...
From ancient wisdom to modern insights, learn about the immense power words hold in shaping our thoughts, actions, and...
Unlock the transformative power of giving! Explore why generosity is essential and how it enriches not just others' lives,...
Discover why 'Honesty is the best policy. Explore the significance of honesty in society, its impact on happiness, and...