Become What You Are
Overview of Become What You Are
In "Become What You Are," Alan Watts bridges Eastern and Western philosophies, inviting you to embrace your authentic self. Called the "godfather of Zen in America," Watts challenges conventional identity - what if true freedom lies in accepting who you already are?
Key Themes in Become What You Are
- eastern western synthesis
- paradox of self-improvement
- eternal now
- ego dissolution
- non-dual awareness
Quotes from Become What You Are
This, then, is the human problem: there is a price to be paid for every increase in consciousness.
To have faith is to trust yourself to the water. When you swim you don't grab hold of the water, because if you do you will sink and drown. Instead you relax, and float.
When you find out that there was never anything in the dark side to be afraid of... Nothing is left but to love.
So become what you are-not through effort but through recognition of what has always been true.
Characters in Become What You Are
- Alan WattsAuthor and philosopher of Eastern thought
- JoshuZen student who questioned his teacher about Tao
- NansenZen teacher who taught about the everyday mind
About the Author
About the Author of Become What You Are
Alan Wilson Watts (1915–1973) was a groundbreaking British-American philosopher and bestselling author whose Become What You Are distills Zen Buddhism and Taoist principles into accessible insights on self-realization.
A seminal figure in bridging Eastern and Western thought, Watts penned over 25 works, including The Way of Zen and Psychotherapy East and West, which remain foundational texts in spiritual and philosophical studies.
Ordained as an Anglican priest before devoting himself to Zen, he co-founded the American Academy of Asian Studies and gained renown through his KPFA radio lectures, later popularized via public broadcasts and modern platforms like YouTube.
Known for his witty, conversational style, Watts’s talks and books influenced 1960s counterculture and continue to resonate globally. His works have been translated into dozens of languages, with The Way of Zen alone selling millions of copies since its 1957 release.
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FAQs About This Book
Become What You Are explores Alan Watts' interpretation of Eastern philosophies like Zen Buddhism and Taoism, emphasizing self-realization through non-striving and embracing one’s true nature. The book challenges Western notions of achievement, arguing that fulfillment comes from aligning with life’s spontaneous flow rather than forced self-improvement. Key themes include mindfulness, ego dissolution, and the paradox of effortless living.
This book suits seekers of spiritual growth, fans of Eastern philosophy, and readers questioning societal pressures to “become someone.” It’s ideal for those grappling with existential dissatisfaction or seeking alternatives to goal-oriented self-help. Watts’ accessible style also appeals to newcomers exploring Zen or Taoist principles.
Yes, for its timeless insights into overcoming anxiety through acceptance. Watts’ blend of wit and wisdom demystifies complex ideas, making it a standout in spiritual literature. Critics praise its practicality for modern stress, though some find its anti-ambition stance extreme.
- The “Reverse Law”: Pursuing happiness blocks it; peace comes through detachment.
- Ego as Illusion: Identity is fluid, not fixed.
- Wu Wei: Effortless action aligned with nature.
- Paradox of Change: Self-acceptance precedes growth.
While both explain Zen, Become What You Are focuses on practical self-realization, whereas The Way of Zen delves into historical context. The former uses fewer technical terms, making it more accessible for beginners.
- “You are an aperture through which the universe observes itself.” — Highlights interconnectedness.
- “Trying to define yourself is like trying to bite your own teeth.” — Critiques overthinking identity.
Both emphasize non-dualistic thinking.
Watts argues anxiety stems from resisting life’s impermanence. By accepting thoughts/emotions without judgment—practicing “being” over “doing”—readers reduce mental friction. This aligns with modern mindfulness techniques.
Some critics argue Watts oversimplifies Eastern traditions for Western audiences. Others note his rejection of ambition clashes with capitalist values, though defenders counter that he advocates purposeful, not passive, living.
Watts redefines success as aligning work with innate passions rather than external validation. He encourages intuitive decision-making over rigid planning—a concept echoed in today’s “anti-hustle” movement.
Amid AI disruption and burnout culture, its message of authenticity over productivity resonates. The book’s anti-dogmatic approach also appeals to Gen Z’s spiritual-but-not-religious trend.
- “The Wave and the Ocean”: Individuality as temporary expression of the universal.
- “Mirror Mind”: Consciousness reflecting reality without judgment.
These illustrate non-attachment.
Yes, narrated by Watts himself, capturing his iconic cadence. New editions include commentary by modern mindfulness teachers, enhancing accessibility.
