“Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma is a self-help book that offers life lessons and guidance on how to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. The book emphasizes the importance of finding one’s calling, being kind to others, maintaining perspective, and living in the present moment. It encourages readers to prioritize self-care, silence, and solitude, and to surround themselves with positive influences. The book also emphasizes the power of early rising, setting goals, and taking action to create the life one desires. Overall, the book aims to inspire readers to live intentionally and make a positive impact on the world.
About the Author:
Robin Sharma is a Canadian author, motivational speaker, and leadership expert. He is best known for his book “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari,” which became an international bestseller. Sharma has written several other books on personal development, leadership, and success, including “The Leader Who Had No Title,” “The 5 AM Club,” and “The Saint, the Surfer, and the CEO.” He is known for his inspirational and practical approach to personal growth and has been recognized as one of the top leadership experts in the world. Sharma’s work has been translated into over 90 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide. He is also a sought-after speaker and has delivered keynote addresses at numerous conferences and events.
Publication Details:
Title: Who Will Cry When You Die? Life Lessons from the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
Author: Robin Sharma
Year of Publication: 2002
Publisher: Hay House
Edition: First edition
This book was first published in 2002 by Hay House. It is part of the “Monk Who Sold His Ferrari” series, which includes other popular titles by Robin Sharma. The book has since been reprinted and translated into multiple languages, reaching a wide audience worldwide.
Book’s Genre Overview:
The book “Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma falls under the genre/category of self-help and personal development. It offers practical advice, life lessons, and guidance on how to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. The book aims to inspire readers to make positive changes in their lives and create a meaningful impact on the world around them.
Purpose and Thesis: What is the main argument or purpose of the book?
The main purpose of “Who Will Cry When You Die?” is to inspire readers to live a more intentional and fulfilling life. The book encourages individuals to reflect on their purpose, values, and priorities, and to take action to align their actions with their true selves. It emphasizes the importance of finding one’s calling, being kind to others, maintaining perspective, and living in the present moment. The book’s thesis is that by embracing these principles and making positive changes in their lives, readers can experience greater happiness, fulfillment, and make a lasting impact on the world.
Who should read?
The book “Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma is intended for a general audience. It is written in a accessible and relatable style, making it suitable for readers from various backgrounds and professions. The book’s themes and lessons can resonate with anyone seeking personal growth, self-improvement, and a more meaningful life. Whether you are a professional, a student, a homemaker, or someone looking for inspiration and guidance, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice that can be applied to different aspects of life.
Overall Summary:
“Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma is a self-help book that offers valuable life lessons and guidance on how to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. The book covers a range of key points and concepts, including:
1. Discovering Your Calling: The book emphasizes the importance of finding one’s unique purpose and engaging in work that aligns with one’s passions and strengths. It encourages readers to bring more of themselves into their work and focus on what they do best.
2. Kindness and Compassion: Sharma highlights the significance of showing kindness and compassion to others. He suggests that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver, and that being kind to strangers can enrich our lives and make the world a better place.
3. Maintaining Perspective: The book emphasizes the need to shift our perspective and look at challenging situations in a more enlightened and positive way. Sharma encourages readers to ask themselves if there is a wiser and more enlightened way of viewing seemingly negative circumstances.
4. Self-Care and Solitude: The author stresses the importance of self-care and taking time for solitude. He suggests that spending time in silence and stillness can help restore, refocus, and revitalize the mind, body, and spirit. It allows individuals to reconnect with their true selves and discover the inner glory that resides within.
5. Living in the Present Moment: Sharma emphasizes the significance of living fully in the present moment. He encourages readers to let go of worries about the past or future and to embrace the simplicity and beauty of life’s simplest pleasures. By being fully present, individuals can experience greater joy and fulfillment.
6. Taking Action and Setting Goals: The book emphasizes the power of taking action and setting goals to create the life one desires. Sharma encourages readers to define their life vision and identify the traits of the person they want to become. He suggests that by taking consistent action towards their goals, individuals can manifest their higher potential and leave a lasting legacy.
Overall, “Who Will Cry When You Die?” aims to inspire readers to live intentionally, make a positive impact on the world, and find true fulfillment in their lives. It offers practical advice, thought-provoking insights, and actionable steps to help individuals create a life of purpose, happiness, and success.
Key Concepts and Terminology:
The book focuses on practical life lessons and personal development. Some key concepts that are discussed include:
1. The power of ideas: The book emphasizes the transformative power of ideas and the importance of reading and exposing oneself to the thoughts of great thinkers.
2. The importance of thinking: The book highlights the significance of thinking and how it can determine one’s success and personal growth.
3. Building relationships: The book emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive and influential people and how it can impact one’s personal and professional life.
4. Acts of kindness and love: The book encourages readers to engage in small acts of kindness and love to deepen their relationships and bring joy to others.
5. Empathy and understanding: The book emphasizes the importance of truly understanding others and seeing the world from their perspective to build trust and meaningful connections.
6. Self-compassion: The book encourages readers to be kinder to themselves and not be too hard on themselves for past mistakes, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures and embracing personal growth.
7. Time management: The book highlights the importance of managing time effectively and investing it in activities that truly matter, rather than getting caught up in daily emergencies and distractions.
8. Emotional control: The book emphasizes the importance of keeping calm and composed in challenging situations, and not letting anger or negative emotions control one’s actions.
Overall, the book focuses on practical wisdom and life lessons that can help individuals lead more fulfilling and purposeful lives.
Case Studies or Examples:
Upon reviewing the book, I found a few examples and anecdotes that are used to illustrate the author’s teachings. Here are a few examples:
1. Meeting Muhammad Ali: The author shares his experience of meeting Muhammad Ali, who displayed humility and genuine interest in others. This encounter taught the author the importance of being true to oneself and not needing to prove oneself to others.
2. The Vow of Silence: The author mentions the Buddhist monks’ practice of taking a vow of silence to build willpower and self-control. Staying quiet for short periods of time helps in exerting force on one’s will and practicing discipline.
3. Tuesdays with Morrie: The author recommends the book “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom. It tells the story of a man who reconnects with his former professor, Morrie, in the final months of his life. The book shares the lessons Morrie imparts about life, regret, family, forgiveness, and the meaning of death.
These examples and anecdotes are used to convey important life lessons and inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and make positive changes.
Critical Analysis: Insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the book’s arguments or viewpoints
Strengths:
1. Practical advice: The book offers practical advice and actionable steps that readers can implement in their daily lives to improve themselves and their relationships. It provides clear guidance on various aspects of personal growth and self-improvement.
2. Inspirational stories: The book includes inspiring stories and anecdotes that engage readers and make the concepts more relatable. These stories help to illustrate the author’s points and provide real-life examples of how the teachings can be applied.
3. Easy to read: The book is written in a simple and accessible language, making it easy for readers to understand and follow along. The chapters are short and concise, allowing readers to absorb the information without feeling overwhelmed.
Weaknesses:
1. Lack of depth: Some readers may find that the book lacks depth in its exploration of certain topics. The advice and teachings provided are often presented in a surface-level manner, without delving into the underlying complexities or nuances.
2. Repetition: The book tends to repeat certain ideas and concepts throughout its chapters. While repetition can be helpful for reinforcement, it may become redundant for readers who are looking for new insights or perspectives.
3. Lack of scientific evidence: The book relies heavily on personal anecdotes and wisdom from various sources, but it does not provide scientific evidence or research to support its claims. This may make it less appealing to readers who prefer evidence-based approaches.
Overall, while the book offers valuable advice and inspiration for personal growth, it may not satisfy readers seeking more in-depth analysis or scientific backing for the concepts presented.
FAQ Section:
1. Q: What is the main message of “Who Will Cry When You Die?”?
A: The main message is to live a purposeful and fulfilling life by finding your calling, practicing kindness, maintaining perspective, and living in the present moment.
2. Q: How can I find my calling?
A: Finding your calling involves self-reflection, identifying your passions and strengths, and aligning your work with those aspects. It’s about bringing more of yourself into what you do.
3. Q: Can I make a difference in the world through small acts of kindness?
A: Absolutely! Small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. They contribute to making the world a better place.
4. Q: How can I maintain perspective during challenging times?
A: Shifting your perspective and looking at challenging situations in a more enlightened and positive way can help. Ask yourself if there is a wiser and more enlightened way of viewing the situation.
5. Q: Why is self-care and solitude important?
A: Self-care and solitude allow you to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with your true self. They help restore balance, clarity, and focus in your life.
6. Q: How can I live in the present moment?
A: Living in the present moment involves letting go of worries about the past or future and fully embracing the simplicity and beauty of life’s simplest pleasures.
7. Q: How can I take action and set goals to create the life I desire?
A: Define your life vision, identify the traits of the person you want to become, and take consistent action towards your goals. Small steps can lead to significant changes over time.
8. Q: Can this book help me find meaning in my life?
A: Yes, “Who Will Cry When You Die?” offers insights and guidance to help you discover your purpose, align your actions with your values, and find greater meaning in your life.
9. Q: Is this book only for professionals or can anyone benefit from it?
A: This book is for anyone seeking personal growth, self-improvement, and a more meaningful life. It is applicable to individuals from various backgrounds and professions.
10. Q: Are the teachings in this book based on any specific religious or spiritual beliefs?
A: The book draws wisdom from various traditions but does not promote any specific religious or spiritual beliefs. The concepts are presented in a universal and inclusive manner.
11. Q: Can I apply the lessons in this book to my personal relationships?
A: Absolutely! The principles discussed in the book can be applied to all aspects of life, including personal relationships, to foster greater understanding, kindness, and connection.
12. Q: How can I overcome self-doubt and fear to pursue my dreams?
A: The book encourages self-belief, taking calculated risks, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. It provides strategies to overcome self-doubt and fear to pursue your dreams.
13. Q: Can this book help me find work-life balance?
A: While the book does not specifically focus on work-life balance, it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and aligning your actions with your highest life priorities.
14. Q: How can I make a positive impact on the world?
A: The book suggests practicing kindness, being of service to others, and living with integrity as ways to make a positive impact on the world around you.
15. Q: Can I apply the teachings in this book to my personal growth journey?
A: Yes, the book provides practical advice, insights, and actionable steps that can be applied to personal growth and self-improvement journeys.
16. Q: Is it necessary to read the previous books in the series to understand this one?
A: No, each book in the series stands on its own and can be read independently. You do not need to read the previous books to understand and benefit from this one.
17. Q: How long does it take to see results from implementing the book’s teachings?
A: Results may vary for each individual. It depends on the level of commitment, consistency, and effort put into applying the teachings. Small changes can lead to noticeable improvements over time.
18. Q: Can this book help me overcome procrastination and improve productivity?
A: While the book does touch on productivity and taking action, it may not specifically focus on overcoming procrastination. However, the principles discussed can be applied to improve productivity.
19. Q: Are there any exercises or activities included in the book to help with self-reflection?
A: Yes, the book includes exercises and activities that encourage self-reflection, goal-setting, and personal growth. These exercises can help deepen your understanding and application of the teachings.
20. Q: Can I apply the book’s teachings to my professional life and career?
A: Yes, the book offers insights and strategies that can be applied to professional life and career development. It emphasizes finding purpose, setting goals, and taking action to create the desired career path.
Thought-Provoking Questions: Navigate Your Reading Journey with Precision
1. What resonated with you the most from the book? Why?
2. How do you define your calling or purpose in life? Has reading this book influenced your understanding of it?
3. Share an example of a small act of kindness you have experienced or witnessed. How did it impact you or others involved?
4. How do you maintain perspective during challenging times? Can you share a personal experience where shifting your perspective helped you overcome a difficult situation?
5. What are some self-care practices or moments of solitude that you currently incorporate into your life? How do they benefit you?
6. How do you strive to live in the present moment? What challenges do you face in doing so?
7. Share a goal or dream that you have been hesitant to pursue. What steps can you take, inspired by the book, to overcome self-doubt and fear and move closer to that goal?
8. How do you prioritize your highest life priorities? Are there any changes you can make to align your actions more closely with those priorities?
9. Discuss the impact of kindness and compassion on personal relationships. How can practicing kindness enhance and strengthen those relationships?
10. Share an example of a time when you made a positive impact on someone’s life. How did it make you feel? How did it affect the other person?
11. How do you integrate the teachings from the book into your personal growth journey? Are there any specific strategies or practices that have been particularly helpful for you?
12. Discuss the concept of work-life balance. How do you currently strive to achieve it? Are there any adjustments you can make based on the book’s teachings?
13. Share a quote or passage from the book that resonated with you and explain why it stood out.
14. How do you define success in your life? Has reading this book influenced your perspective on success?
15. Discuss the importance of taking action and setting goals in creating the life you desire. Share a goal you have set for yourself and the steps you plan to take to achieve it.
16. How can you incorporate more moments of silence and stillness into your daily routine? What benefits do you think it can bring to your life?
17. Share an example of a time when you shifted your perspective and looked at a seemingly negative situation in a more enlightened way. How did it change your experience or outlook?
18. Discuss the role of self-belief and overcoming self-doubt in pursuing your dreams. How can you cultivate more self-belief in your own life?
19. How can you apply the teachings from the book to make a positive impact on the world around you? Share some ideas or actions you can take.
20. Reflect on your own legacy. What kind of impact do you want to leave behind? How can you start working towards that legacy today?
Check your knowledge about the book
1. What is the main message of “Who Will Cry When You Die?”
a) Finding your calling
b) Practicing kindness
c) Maintaining perspective
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
2. What does the book emphasize about self-care and solitude?
a) They are unnecessary distractions
b) They are essential for personal growth
c) They should be avoided at all costs
d) They are only for introverted individuals
Answer: b) They are essential for personal growth
3. How can one live in the present moment?
a) By constantly worrying about the future
b) By dwelling on past mistakes
c) By embracing the simplicity of life’s pleasures
d) By always planning for the future
Answer: c) By embracing the simplicity of life’s pleasures
4. What is the importance of taking action and setting goals?
a) They are unnecessary burdens
b) They lead to disappointment
c) They help create the life one desires
d) They are only for highly ambitious individuals
Answer: c) They help create the life one desires
5. What is the significance of practicing kindness?
a) It has no impact on others
b) It can make a positive difference in the world
c) It is a waste of time
d) It is only for people-pleasers
Answer: b) It can make a positive difference in the world
6. What is the book’s main focus?
a) Finding work-life balance
b) Achieving financial success
c) Personal growth and fulfillment
d) Overcoming fear and self-doubt
Answer: c) Personal growth and fulfillment
7. How does the book suggest maintaining perspective during challenging times?
a) By ignoring the situation
b) By shifting one’s perspective to a more positive outlook
c) By dwelling on the negative aspects
d) By seeking validation from others
Answer: b) By shifting one’s perspective to a more positive outlook
8. What does the book encourage readers to do in relation to their calling?
a) Ignore it and focus on other aspects of life
b) Pursue it wholeheartedly
c) Delegate it to others
d) Change it frequently
Answer: b) Pursue it wholeheartedly
9. How does the book define success?
a) Accumulating wealth and material possessions
b) Achieving fame and recognition
c) Finding fulfillment and making a positive impact
d) Meeting societal expectations
Answer: c) Finding fulfillment and making a positive impact
10. What is the role of self-belief in the book?
a) It is unnecessary for personal growth
b) It is the key to overcoming challenges and pursuing dreams
c) It is a hindrance to success
d) It is only for highly confident individuals
Answer: b) It is the key to overcoming challenges and pursuing dreams
Comparison With Other Works:
“Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma shares similarities with other self-help and personal development books in terms of its focus on finding purpose, practicing kindness, and living a fulfilling life. However, what sets it apart is Sharma’s storytelling approach and his ability to convey profound insights through relatable anecdotes and examples.
Compared to other works by Robin Sharma, such as “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari” and “The 5 AM Club,” “Who Will Cry When You Die?” offers a more concise and focused exploration of key life lessons. While the other books delve into broader themes of personal transformation and success, this book hones in on specific principles and practices that can lead to a more meaningful existence.
In comparison to other self-help authors in the field, Sharma’s writing style is often described as accessible and engaging. He combines practical advice with inspirational storytelling, making his books relatable to a wide range of readers. Additionally, Sharma’s emphasis on kindness, perspective, and self-care sets his work apart, as he encourages readers to not only focus on personal success but also on making a positive impact on others and the world.
Overall, “Who Will Cry When You Die?” stands out for its ability to distill important life lessons into concise and relatable teachings. It offers a unique blend of practical guidance, storytelling, and inspiration that sets it apart from other works in the same field and showcases Robin Sharma’s distinct approach to personal development.
Quotes from the Book:
1. “Live your life in such a way that when you die, the world cries while you rejoice.”
2. “A meaningful life is made up of a series of daily acts of decency and kindness.”
3. “To reconnect with who you really are as a person and to come to know the glory that rests within you, you must find the time to be silent on a regular basis.”
4. “The act of caring for my physical temple reminds me that life’s greatest pleasures are often life’s simplest ones.”
5. “It is not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, what are you so busy about?”
6. “Find your calling. It doesn’t mean you must leave the job you now have. It means you need to bring more of yourself into your work and focus on the things you do best.”
7. “Every person you pass during the moments that make up your days represents an opportunity to show a little more of the compassion and courtesy that define your humanity.”
8. “Given this information, are your troubles really that big? Are the problems you have experienced or the challenges you might currently be facing really as serious as you have made them out to be?”
9. “The first step to realizing your life vision is defining it. And the first step to becoming the person you want to be is identifying the traits of the person you want to be.”
10. “Getting up early is a gift you give to yourself. Few disciplines have the power to transform your life as does the habit of early rising.”
Do’s and Don’ts:
Do’s:
1. Do find your calling and bring more of yourself into your work.
2. Do practice kindness and compassion towards others.
3. Do take time for silence and solitude to reconnect with yourself.
4. Do maintain perspective and look for a more enlightened view in challenging situations.
5. Do live in the present moment and appreciate life’s simplest pleasures.
6. Do take action and set goals to create the life you desire.
7. Do prioritize self-care and make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
8. Do surround yourself with positive influences and role models.
9. Do embrace self-belief and overcome self-doubt to pursue your dreams.
10. Do strive to make a positive impact on the world and leave a meaningful legacy.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t neglect your true calling and settle for work that doesn’t align with your passions and strengths.
2. Don’t underestimate the power of small acts of kindness and compassion.
3. Don’t neglect the importance of silence and solitude in finding inner peace and clarity.
4. Don’t get caught up in negativity and lose sight of the bigger picture in challenging times.
5. Don’t dwell on the past or worry excessively about the future, missing out on the present moment.
6. Don’t procrastinate or let fear hold you back from taking action towards your goals.
7. Don’t neglect self-care and prioritize other aspects of life at the expense of your well-being.
8. Don’t surround yourself with negative influences that hinder your personal growth.
9. Don’t let self-doubt and fear prevent you from pursuing your dreams and potential.
10. Don’t underestimate the impact you can make on the world and the legacy you can leave behind.
These do’s and don’ts summarize the key practical advice from the book, providing guidance on how to live a purposeful, fulfilling, and impactful life.
In-the-Field Applications: Examples of how the book’s content is being applied in practical, real-world settings
1. Workplace: Employees who have read “Who Will Cry When You Die?” may apply the book’s teachings by finding their calling within their current job, bringing more of themselves into their work, and focusing on tasks that align with their strengths and passions. They may also practice kindness and compassion towards their colleagues, creating a positive and supportive work environment.
2. Personal Relationships: Readers may apply the book’s principles in their personal relationships by practicing kindness, empathy, and understanding. They may prioritize quality time with loved ones, be present in the moment, and show appreciation for the simple pleasures shared together. By maintaining perspective and shifting their outlook during conflicts or challenges, they can foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
3. Self-Care and Well-being: Individuals may incorporate the book’s teachings into their self-care routines by making time for solitude, silence, and reflection. They may engage in activities that nourish their mind, body, and spirit, such as meditation, exercise, journaling, or pursuing hobbies. By prioritizing self-care, they can enhance their overall well-being and find inner peace.
4. Community and Service: Inspired by the book’s emphasis on making a positive impact, readers may engage in community service or volunteer work. They may seek opportunities to help others, practice random acts of kindness, and contribute to causes they are passionate about. By actively participating in their communities, they can create a ripple effect of positivity and make a difference in the lives of others.
5. Personal Growth and Goal Setting: Readers may apply the book’s teachings by setting meaningful goals aligned with their life vision. They can take action steps towards their goals, overcome self-doubt and fear, and cultivate self-belief. By consistently working towards personal growth and development, they can create a life of purpose and fulfillment.
These are just a few examples of how the content of “Who Will Cry When You Die?” can be applied in practical, real-world settings. The book’s teachings can be adapted and implemented in various areas of life to foster personal growth, positive relationships, and a greater sense of purpose.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma is a self-help book that offers practical advice and insights on how to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. The book emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, developing positive habits, practicing forgiveness, prioritizing self-care, and cultivating mindfulness and gratitude. It encourages readers to take responsibility for their own happiness and make positive changes in their lives. Through relatable language and examples, the book provides actionable steps and inspiration for personal growth and self-improvement. By implementing the principles and practices discussed in the book, readers can strive towards a more purposeful and fulfilling life.
What to read next?
If you enjoyed “Who Will Cry When You Die?” by Robin Sharma and are looking for similar books to read next, here are a few recommendations:
1. “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari” by Robin Sharma: This is another popular book by the same author that explores the journey of personal transformation and finding fulfillment in life.
2. “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl: This influential book delves into the search for meaning and purpose in life, drawing from the author’s experiences as a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist.
3. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho: This beloved novel follows the journey of a young shepherd as he seeks his personal legend and discovers the importance of following one’s dreams.
4. “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle: This spiritual guide explores the concept of living in the present moment and finding inner peace and fulfillment.
5. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear: This book offers practical strategies for building positive habits and breaking bad ones, helping readers create lasting changes in their lives.
6. “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek: This book explores the power of purpose and finding the “why” behind our actions, both in personal and professional contexts.
7. “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz: This book presents four principles for personal freedom and transformation, offering insights on how to live with integrity and authenticity.
These recommendations cover a range of topics related to personal growth, purpose, and fulfillment. Each book offers unique perspectives and practical advice to further enhance your journey of self-discovery and personal development.