The sumo wrestler in Yogi Raman’s fable symbolizes the philosophy of kaizen, a Japanese word meaning “constant and never-ending improvement” (94). John realizes that strengthening oneself is crucial to helping others. Julian explains that it takes courage to fulfill your purpose and achieve self-mastery. He lists the three human endowments as “mind, body and soul” (98) and tells John that living an enlightened life requires “unlocking the full potential of all three” (98). Stepping out of one’s comfort zone and entering the “Zone of the Unknown” (99) makes growth possible. This includes facing one’s fears head-on; experiencing fear can be a habit like any other.

Julian reveals the Ten Rituals of Radiant Living that he learned during his time with the sages and promises results in 30 days if John commits to practicing them one hour per day and makes them habits. The first strategy is the Ritual of Solitude, which is to schedule moments of peace during the day to heal and renew the self, like a “pit-stop for the soul” (108). The Ritual of Physicality requires training the body through exercise, which helps the mind and can unlock creativity. The Ritual of Live Nourishment means maintaining a healthy vegetarian diet, or at least cutting back on certain foods like red meat.