Dandapani has lived a unique and purpose-driven life.  He is a Hindu priest and entrepreneur who spent his first 10 years after university studying as a monk at a monastery in Hawaii.  He concluded his study and took his well-honed knowledge of discipline, focus and energy management to help others harness their energy and build a life of purpose and joy.  Dandapani has also delivered a TEDx Talk, “Unwavering Focus,” which has been viewed three million times. Dandapani joined host Robert Glazer on the Elevate Podcast to talk about his time as a monk, the value of practicing how to focus, the importance of building high quality relationships, and how you can take control of your consciousness to live a more purposeful life. A big thanks to our episode sponsor, DoorDash Long day at work?  Still stuck at the office?  Treat yourself to the meal you deserve, and have your favorite restaurants come to you, with DoorDash.  DoorDash connects you to 340,000 restaurants in over 3,300 cities, so not only are your favorites on there, but you might a great new spot as well. Don’t worry about dinner, let dinner come to you.  Get $5 off your first order of $15 or more by downloading the DoorDash app and entering the promo code ELEVATE. Show Notes On this episode, you’ll learn about: Dandapani’s early life, including his decision to study at a monastery. What it’s really like to spend 10 years studying as a monk. Dandapani’s adjustment returning from the monastery, including his decision to become an entrepreneur. Why we have so much trouble focusing, and how we can practice it. How awareness, and understanding of our own mind, can improve our quality of life. The value of relationships, and the importance of prioritizing the most healthy ones over others. A mistake Dandapani has made, and what he learned from it.