ADVERTISEMENTs
Disappear before you rise: Jay Shetty to Princeton’s class of 2025
“You still go to work. You still show up. But you stop announcing every move and start building something that speaks for itself,” he advised.
-
Malvika Choudhary - Wed, 28, May 2025
- 16:31 EDT
- 144
Class Day speaker Jay Shetty / Photo by Matthew Raspanti, Office of Communications/ Princeton University
Acclaimed author, podcaster, and former monk Jay Shetty urged students to embrace solitude, humility, and purpose before seeking recognition in his Class Day address to Princeton University’s graduating Class of 2025.
“Disappear for a while,” Shetty told the seniors on May 26. “And when you come back, come back as you.”
Also Read: Usha Vance to keynote USISPF Leadership Summit 2025
In a culture obsessed with constant exposure and validation, Shetty emphasized that most meaningful work is often forged in silence. “What’s fascinating is to look at world-class entrepreneurs, artists, businesspeople, and creatives you admire,” Shetty said. “Guess what? They all disappeared.”
“Kobe Bryant practiced at 4 a.m. when no one was watching. Warren Buffett sat in a quiet room in Omaha reading. Lady Gaga played dive bars in a glitter leotard for audiences of six….” Shetty added.
“You still go to work. You still show up. But you stop announcing every move and start building something that speaks for itself,” he advised.
A call to serve
Shetty encouraged graduates to reflect on four life-defining decisions: how they see themselves, whom they love, what career they pursue, and how they serve others.
He emphasized that making a difference doesn’t require wealth or status. “You don’t need a million dollars. You don’t need a title. You just need to care. Find something that breaks your heart open a little—and get involved.”
Mental Health
Pushing back against the obsession with outward success, Shetty warned, “The world will constantly push you to perform success. But a life that looks good or sounds good is nothing compared to a life that feels good.”
He urged graduates to protect their mental space amid the pressures of social media. “Delete social media apps for at least one weekend a month,” he advised. “You can’t live someone else’s version of success. You’ll burn out trying.”
Shetty reminded students that purpose isn’t about fame or fortune. “Your purpose doesn’t have to be your job or make you famous. It’s something no one can take away from you.”
He encouraged joy in others’ achievements, invoking the Sanskrit word mudita—the ability to feel happiness for someone else’s success. “Celebrate them. Study them. Don’t envy their success—understand it.”
Closing his address, Shetty offered a practical takeaway, “Write down one thing you did that required energy, courage, and discipline. When you start measuring your day by effort, not recognition, you begin to feel accomplished without needing to be noticed.”
“The world is waiting for you,” he concluded. ”Use your passion in the service of others, and it will become your purpose.”
Related
.jpg)
.jpg)
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
.jpg)
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login