By Moritz Richartz
In 2011, as a business consultant in bustling Shanghai, I embarked on a trip that would change the course of my life. A journey to Tibet opened my eyes to the serenity and wisdom of Buddhist practices, specifically meditation and mindfulness. Amidst the breathtaking Himalayas, I found something I didn’t even realize I was looking for: inner peace and a different understanding of success.
Returning to Germany, armed with newfound enthusiasm and insights, I felt a compelling urge to integrate mindfulness practices into the corporate world. The initial efforts were met with resistance—after all, how could ‘Eastern mysticism’ benefit the German commitment to precision and productivity? But the passion I felt for the subject was unyielding, and so I began my crusade to unite my background in management with Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices.
Fast-forward to today, I’ve found a fulfilling career path that brings mindfulness techniques to the workplace, particularly focusing on sales teams these days. My work resonates even more in these turbulent times where resilience has become a key element of personal and professional well-being. Companies are waking up to the fact that mindfulness isn’t merely a trendy buzzword; it’s an essential skill that complements and enhances traditional business acumen.
The tides have turned since those early days of skepticism. Also as a member of the “Network for Mindful Business” for some years now, I have observed a significant shift. Mindfulness and even a basic understanding of Buddhism have become more mainstream, partly accelerated by the widespread popularity of yoga and well-being movements.
The certification I received from a reputable company that specializes in mindfulness practices in the business world, adds a layer of credibility that wasn’t easily available a decade ago. Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one coaching sessions, I combine empirical methods and ancient wisdom to help teams cultivate resilience, reduce stress, and ultimately improve performance.
One resource that deeply influences my approach is the concept of ‘Skillful Means’ from the Tibetan Nyingma tradition. This idea helps bridge the gap between the business world’s demand for actionable results and Buddhism’s more introspective goals. ‘Skillful Means’ teaches us to work not just smarter but also with more compassion and understanding, enriching both our personal and professional lives.
In a world more connected yet paradoxically more isolated than ever, the message of mindfulness and resilience is critical. It’s heartening to see the growing acceptance of this synthesis of Buddhism and business. After all, in an era where everyone is searching for a competitive edge, perhaps what we need most is to pause, breathe, and be present— something I learned not in a boardroom, but on a meditative journey in the highlands of Tibet.
About the author
Moritz Richartz has been practicing (mainly Tibetan) Buddhism since a trip to the Himalayas in 2011. He combines ancient wisdom traditions with the modern business world as an independent consultant. For a few years now he is also the digital communications manager of the EBU. He lives in Germany and has a young son, whom he can’t wait to start meditating with.
This article first appeared in EBU Magazine #11 – Buddhism and Education (Autumn 2023). Download the full issue as PDF or browse all issues.