Life is a labyrinth of choices. From the mundane email reply to the momentous career change, we’re constantly navigating decisions that can ripple through our lives and the lives of others. In these moments, especially when feeling lost or uncertain, we often look outside ourselves for guidance. But sometimes, the most profound compass points inward, guided by the wisdom of those we deeply admire.
The popular phrase “What Would Jesus Do?” (WWJD) encapsulates a powerful technique for ethical decision-making. It encourages us to pause and consider our actions through the lens of a figure known for compassion, love, and forgiveness. But the beauty of this approach lies in its adaptability and universality. It’s not limited to Jesus. We can tap into this wellspring of wisdom by asking ourselves, “What would Buddha do?”, “How would Muhammad react?”, “How would Kwan Yin behave?”, or even, “What would Mother Mary think about this?”.
This isn’t about blindly imitating historical figures or attempting to become them. It’s about utilising their widely recognised virtues as a framework for our own conduct. Imagine you’re facing a difficult conversation with a colleague. Frustration is bubbling up, and you’re tempted to respond defensively or angrily. Pause, and ask yourself: “What would Buddha do in this situation?” Suddenly, the image of the serene Buddha, radiating peace and understanding, might temper your immediate reaction. You might find yourself considering compassion, empathy, and mindful communication instead of defensiveness.
Similarly, if you’re grappling with a major life decision, perhaps a career change or a move to a new city, asking “How would Muhammad react?” could bring a different perspective. Muhammad, known for his wisdom, justice, and community leadership, might inspire you to consider the broader impact of your decision. Would it benefit your community? Is it rooted in fairness and integrity?
The power of this technique lies in shifting our focus outward, even if just momentarily, from our own immediate desires and anxieties. By stepping into the shoes of an esteemed figure, we access a wider perspective, one grounded in values we often admire and aspire to embody.
Why does this work?
Perspective Shift: It helps us break free from our ego’s narrow viewpoint. In moments of stress, we can become self-absorbed. Considering how someone else, especially a figure embodying selfless qualities, might approach the situation broadens our understanding.
Value Alignment: These figures are typically associated with core values like compassion, justice, peace, wisdom, forgiveness, and love. Asking “What would they do?” subtly prompts us to evaluate our actions against these values, encouraging us to align our behaviour with what we truly believe in.
Emotional Regulation: The act of reflection inherent in this question creates a pause. This space allows us to cool down reactive emotions like anger or fear, paving the way for more considered and thoughtful responses.
Inspiration and Motivation: Thinking about the actions of someone we admire can be incredibly inspiring. It reminds us of the potential for good within ourselves and motivates us to strive for a higher standard of behaviour.
Beyond the Religious Realm:
While the examples mentioned are rooted in spiritual traditions, this approach isn’t limited to religious figures. You can apply this technique to anyone you deeply respect for their character and wisdom. Consider asking:
“What would Nelson Mandela do?” when faced with injustice or conflict.
“How would Marie Curie approach this problem?” when facing a challenging task requiring perseverance and intellectual rigour.
“What would a wise mentor say?” when seeking guidance on a career path.
The key is to choose figures whose qualities resonate with you and whose values you admire.
Important Considerations:
Interpretation, Not Imitation: It’s crucial to understand that we’re not meant to perfectly replicate their actions. Context matters. We are interpreting their principles and applying them to our modern lives.
Personal Judgement Still Needed: This technique is a tool for guidance, not a replacement for your own critical thinking and ethical judgement.
Continual Learning: Our understanding of these figures and their wisdom can evolve over time. This is a continuous process of reflection and growth.
Asking “What would they do?” is a powerful tool for navigating life’s complexities with greater wisdom, compassion, and ethical awareness. By tapping into the wellspring of admired figures and their guiding principles, we can cultivate our inner compass, make more thoughtful decisions, and ultimately, strive to live more meaningful and impactful lives. So, the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, take a moment, breathe, and ask yourself – “What would they do?”, and see where that gentle question guides you. You might be surprised by the insightful answers you discover within yourself.
Worldwide Temple of Aurora 