JAY SHETTY PORTRAIT: YOU CAN’T BE WHAT YOU CAN’T SEE

Jay Shetty is many things: a former monk, bestselling author, podcast host and above all a passionate arbiter of wisdom for the modern world, which often seeks direction. His name is synonymous with mindfulness and the art of living, and his message reaches millions of people across the globe. With his unique blend of ancient spiritual traditions and a fresh, contemporary perspective, Jay Shetty has created a new form of mentorship – one that aligns with the hearts and minds of a global community.

Born in London on 6 September 1987 to an Indian/British family, Shetty grew up between the two cultures. As a teenager, he definitely wasn’t someone you would expect to become a life coach or teacher of wisdom in the future. He was rebellious at school and was looking for identity and meaning. But one encounter changed his life forever: aged 18, he listened to a presentation by an Indian monk who made a profound impression. This was the start of an inner journey that woul take him from the familiar streets of London to the isolated world of Indian monasteries.

After completing his degree in management science, Shetty chose a path that few of his peers understood: he retreated to a monastery in India for three years to live as a monk. There, he learnt the ancient practice of meditation, mindful living and self-reflection. It was a time of intensive self-discovery and discipline, shaped by basic living conditions and the task of conquering his own mind. During these years, Shetty developed a deep appreciation for spiritual wisdom, which he would later transfer to the modern world.

But life as a monk wasn’t his final destination. Shetty realised that he wanted to share his experiences with a wider audience. The call to put the wisdom that he had learnt out into the world was too strong. So he returned to London – but not as the same person. He now had a mission: he wanted to share the transformative power of mindfulness and inner calmness with the world, especially with those who were often seeking meaning and balance in hectic urban life.

Shetty started sharing his thoughts and teachings on social media. Initially quite modestly, but his ability to condense complex spiritual concepts into straight-forward, understandable and inspirational messages quickly earnt him a growing fan base. Through short, concise videos in which he addressed everyday topics such as relationships, success, self-esteem and mindfulness, he struck a chord with a generation searching for authenticity and meaning. Shetty presents himself as a modern monk in jeans and t-shirt – accessible, likeable and always with a smile on his face.

ON PURPOSE

He started his podcast “On Purpose” in 2017, and it has become one of the most listened to podcasts in the world. He interviews personalities from various areas of life – from actors to entrepreneurs and spiritual teachers. Along with his guests, Shetty explores the major questions in life: how do we find fulfilment? What is true happiness? How can we lead a life that aligns with our values? The conversations are profound, but also humorous and laid back, which is what makes him accessible to a wide audience. It is this mix of genuine reflection and light entertainment that has turned Shetty into one of the most popular podcasters of our time.

THINK LIKE A MONK

In 2020, he published his book Think Like a Monk, and it immediately became a bestseller. In it, Shetty shares teachings that he experienced as a monk and shows how they can be applied in modern life. Using clear, practical advice, he empowers his readers to let go of old habits, overcome negative thought processes and lead a life of mindfulness and compassion. The book forms a bridge between eastern wisdom and western self-improvement, and is a testimony of Shetty’s ability to translate profound teaching into an accessible, inspiring language.

What makes Shetty special is his authenticity. Although he is now an international influencer, he remains down to earth and always reminds his followers that he is also on a journey – a journey of learning and growing. He often talks about his own challenges and insecurities and in doing so, conveys the belief that there is no ideal path, just your own individual one. For Shetty, spirituality isn’t an abstract concept, it’s a practice to be carried out, incorporated into everyday life – at work, in relationships, when talking to yourself.

A central topic of Shetty’s work is the idea that every person has a deeper purpose and true happiness doesn’t lie in striving for external success but in finding inner calmness and satisfaction. In a world that often strives for quick appreciation and instant gratification, Shetty reminds people that the path to fulfilment is a process that requires time, patience and mindfulness . His message is clear:

?You can’t be what you can’t see.“

For this reason, he encourages his listeners to outgrow their own limitations and view life from a new perspective. Jay Shetty has turned himself into a symbol of modern spirituality. He combines the ancient wisdom of the east and the challenges of modern life, and shows us that happiness and meaning can’t be found externally, rather within us. With his charismatic nature, his sensitive approach and his ability to inspire people, he has helped millions of people around the world to pause, reflect and live more consciously.

His success can be measured in quite impressive numbers: millions of followers, a bestselling book, a constantly growing global presence – but Jay Shetty’s real legacy is in the hearts of the people he has touched. He has managed to revitalise ancient wisdom and make it so accessible that it can have a transformative effect on our hectic everyday lives. In a time when many people are looking for meaning, Jay Shetty is a gentle leader who reminds us that the key to happiness can often be found in silence and simplicity.