Jonah Engler

Take a deep breath, and focus on what makes YOU happy, the rest will fall into place.

 

Jonah Engler found the passion of giving at a young age. His mom was employed by the United Federation of Teachers (UFT). Through her, he secured “pre-college” employment there. He thoroughly enjoyed this work, and developed many of the tools that helped build the man he is today. He most enjoys giving of his time, energy, and yes money, toward organizations he truly believes in. This includes Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness, AIDS research, Children of Promise, among others.

His life of paying forward begins at home. He is the father of three children with whom he spends as much quality time with as possible. When he manages to find free time, he enjoys sports, food, and great music. Lately, Jonah has found inspiration through Buddhism, romanticism, and how these areas can be incorporated into everyday life.
Jonah has become a subject matter expert in the realm of Buddhism, “applying them to matters of life opens an individual to more creative avenues and ultimately to experience fulfillment in life”, according to Jonah. He has broadened his knowledge to other important subjects, such as combating climate change, the human mind, and finding the best cup of coffee. Jonah is a well-versed individual, passionate about others, and loves to give his knowledge and time in hopes of making positive, long-lasting impacts on those around him

Where did the idea to become a philanthropist come from?

Love, not just physical or emotional love, an all-encompassing adoration for all aspects of life. It also came from seeing years of underprivileged children and families not receive the proper care and education they so deserved.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

My typical day consists of being the best father to my children, doing everything I can to support my charities, embracing the teachings of Buddhism and applying them to every aspect of my life.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I get inspiration through the many principles and teachings of Buddhism and how I can apply them to myself and family. Also, seeing the impacts my time given to the Children of Promise gives me great inspiration. Once the inspiration has started, it makes it easier for me to bring philanthropic ideas to life for the benefit of others.

What’s one trend that excites you?

A recent trend that fascinates me is how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to predict weather with unparalleled accuracy. AI can be used to predicts major weather events and tell growers when and how to prepare their crops. AI in this aspect can be a major tool to circumvent the devastation of climate change on those who are less fortunate

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive?

Working out to the right music genre, nothing is more productive than clearing your mind and focusing yourself for the day ahead, especially when you’re listening to Queen.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Excellent question. Take a deep breath, and focus on what makes YOU happy, the rest will fall into place.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on?

That parallel universes in realms beyond our imagination and that Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn has the best steak in the universe.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing do you do over and over, and recommend everyone else do?

Discover your passions in life, pursue them, and find a way to give back

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Following a common theme, employing aspects of Buddhism, one can find inspiration in all faucets of life when applying its’ teachings

What is one failure you had as a philanthropist, and how did you overcome it?

Personally, I do not believe that any philanthropic endeavor is a failure; however, the thought that I knew everything, but oh man I was wrong. Steadily, I listened to Buddhist teachings and began to paint broader picture of every aspect of life. The key is not to know everything, but to accept that you don’t and learn for yourself

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Begin to learn about the human mind, you will see why and how people do the certain things they do and knowing that can help you employ more compassion and understanding for your benefit.

What is the best $100 you recently spent?

I bought a book called “The Process of Parenting” I found it very insightful and recommend it for any parents looking for structured and unique ways to raise their children.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

G suite: I use it for literally everything, it keeps me on time, allows collaboration, I can
view and share any files, etc.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

“What the Buddha Taught” is the perfect book that introduces and concisely explains
the principles and teachings of Buddhism and gives a greats relevance to today’s society.

What is your favorite quote?

I saw Jaws with my Dad as a young man. And so became the never ending ritual of hearing him say “You’re gonna need a bigger boat”. That quote has converted from warm memory to my wish for togetherness in an increasingly go it alone world

Key Learnings:

• Learn to love all aspects of life and appreciate them, loving one another is the only way we can be together and not divided
• The teachings of Buddhism can make you a well-round individual in all aspects of your life
• Learning about the human mind is the best way to reveal compassion and understanding
• Discover your passions, pursue them, and find ways to help others
• Being a parent teaches you more about yourself than you realize, so learn from it

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