Janet Ettele on How Joyous Effort Transforms Our Lives
Episode 614
“Joyous effort is like the wind that pushes you toward your goal.” — Janet Ettele
What if the secret to personal transformation isn't willpower… but joy?
In today’s episode of Passion Struck, I’m joined by Janet Ettele—Dharma teacher, musician, and author of the How Life Works novel series—for a profound conversation on what it means to live with joyous effort.
Rooted in Tibetan Buddhist wisdom, Janet’s perspective reframes effort not as struggle or sacrifice, but as a path to freedom. She teaches us that when our actions are aligned with compassion and mindfulness, effort becomes energizing—not exhausting.
We explore:
How mindfulness transforms unconscious thought patterns
Why joyous effort is a key antidote to burnout
How to shift from self-absorption to compassion
The surprising role of gratitude in healing
And what it really means to “train the mind”
Janet’s work has impacted thousands through her writing, music, and service—and this episode will leave you feeling both grounded and uplifted.
“Where thought goes, energy flows. That’s why awareness of your thoughts becomes the foundation for meaningful change.” — Janet Ettele
Listen to this episode to learn:
Why most of us are in a constant state of unconscious meditation (and how to break the cycle)
How to develop discipline without depletion
The relationship between effort, joy, and spiritual growth
What monks, mothers, and everyday people have in common when it comes to the inner path
How you can build an intentional life rooted in service, creativity, and awareness
Listen to the full episode here
→ [Janet Ettele on How Joyous Effort Transforms Our Lives]
Pick up Janet’s books
→ [Learn more about Janet’s books]
And if this spoke to you—share it. One friend. One colleague. One fellow overthinker. You never know whose mind you might help quiet today.
Until next time,
Live boldly. Lead with purpose. And always—live Passion Struck.
—John