Summary Of The Book
The Power Of Now: A Guide To Spiritual Enlightenment is a self-help book with a difference. It does not promise riches and dreams coming true through the power of the mind. Instead, it sets out to show the reader how to silence the mind and realize their true identity.
The author explains that people have been conditioned by lifelong habits to confuse their mind with their identity. They think that it is the mind and thoughts that define who they are. However, Tolle points out that if they just relax and take the time to look inwards, they will be able to observe their thoughts objectively.

This book shows that there is an identity beyond the mind, a state of being in which silence reigns, where the clatter and chatter of the mind can be ignored. This state is achieved through practice. It just involves the person being present in the moment and observing life and everything around them.

Many people are unhappy with present situations, and worried about current relationships. Either they look forward to a change in the future or spend time worrying that what is good in their lives might be lost. The Power Of Now: A Guide To Spiritual Enlightenment says that instead, the person should accept their situation, good or bad, and acknowledge its right to exist.

This passive acceptance frees the tension and resistance in thoughts about current circumstances. This state of being is most conducive to allow the person to think calmly about a problem and find a solution. Apart form this, being present in the moment also makes the person calm and more aware of life. It frees them from past regrets and future worries. The only reality is the present moment. Embracing it and being fully present in it will ultimately help the person go beyond their mind and reconnect with who they really are.

About Eckhart Tolle
Eckhart Tolle is a German born writer.
Other books by Tolle include Guardians of Being, Oneness With All Life: Inspirational Selections from A New Earth, Practicing the Power of Now: Essential Teachings, Meditations, and Exercises from The Power of Now and A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose.

Eckhart Tolle was born in Lunen, Germany in 1948. Tolle says that he suffered from depression for most of his life until he underwent an inner transformation at the age of 29. He then spent years traveling and in spiritual contemplation. He then settled in North America and began writing his first book, The Power of Now. It became a bestseller and remains one of the most popular books on spirituality.