How Much Do You Know About Trappist Monks?
How much do you know about Trappist monks? The Trappists are a Roman Catholic group born of reformers back in the mid-17th Century. They are governed by the Rule of St. Benedict, written in the 6th Century, which preaches stability, fidelity to monastic life, and obedience. While not taking a vow of silence, Trappist monks generally speak only when necessary, and idle talk is strongly discouraged. Yet, they have shown centuries of business acumen. So, how are their principles relevant today? Joining us this evening is August Turak, author of the book Business Secrets of the Trappist Monks: One CEO's Quest for Meaning and Authenticity (published by Columbia University Press, 2013). Mr. Turak is a prosperous entrepreneur who worked alongside an order of Trappist monks for 17 years. His book provides case studies of how the monks have become wildly successful not despite their high principles but because of them, and explains how business people today can best follow their example.