We look at this buddhist inspired book by Joan van den Brink. You can see more about The Three Companions: Compassion, Courage and Wisdom: The powerful keys to happier work and a fulfilled life here.

The Three Companions: Compassion, Courage and Wisdom: The powerful keys to happier work and a fulfilled life, reviewed

This book aims to tackle the big issues, life, death, compassion and how to both treat other people well, and also deal with those who are not treating you in the best manner. While some new leadership books may feel to be borrowing heavily on news age ideas, the author of this book is, if you hadn’t guessed from the use of the word compassion, a buddhist. In many ways Buddhists do have a good take on life, aiming to bring a greater awareness of the intransigence of life, and therefore the need to have a deeper and more open perspective on things.

We would not want to over simplify or misrepresent any key buddhist teachings but this book is certainly an interesting read, and aims to tackle some hard questions. The author has tried to bring a wide range of experiences and different people’s perspectives, making deep dives into the issues and challenges they have faced in their lives. This makes for some thorny problems to be grappled with. In the current times that we live however this is probably no bad thing. Many people have had to deal with difficult and challenging questions in their lives over the last two years. In this way Brink’s book is a helpful, thought provoking and interesting read.

More about the book

Is there someone in your life who always seems to know the right thing to say, do and feel? Do you wish you could be more like that too?

The truth is that you can, and this motivating and inspiring guide will show you how.

Courage, compassion and wisdom are three companions that accompany us through our entire lives. Learning to unlock and harness their power, uniting them to act together in synergy, is the key to a happier life – not just for you, but for those around you too.

Combining illuminating real-life stories from real-world people with expert, practical guidance consultant and executive coach, Dr Joan van den Brink takes you on a fascinating journey of reflection and realisation. Discover how courage, compassion and wisdom has a profound impact on everyday situations and recognise how your own three companions can help you:

Behave in line with your ideals as you increase your self-insight

Feel resilient and robust in difficult and challenging times

Be more tolerant, patient and understanding of others’ needs and behaviours

Build your self-esteem, confidence and feelings of positivity

Grow in humility and generosity towards others

Develop stronger, more rewarding relationships at home and at work.

As you learn to define, develop and display the virtues of the three companions, you’ll feel empowered to live your whole life, and enable others to live theirs, with courage, compassion and wisdom.

More about the author

Joan van den Brink

See more reviews of other books here.