DCIG’s Vision: A World Beyond Competition

“If you want success, you must help someone else to succeed.” (0:08)

In this talk, Geshe Michael Roach outlines the core principle of Diamond Cutter Institute Global (DCIG): real success comes by helping others achieve their goals. If this approach becomes widespread, he believes, the very idea of competition will fade into history—quietly disappearing until the word itself is forgotten. Ancient texts, he notes, even joke about the day when “competition” will be used for the last time because it no longer exists. (0:40–1:05)

The Origins of DCI

The seeds of DCI were planted in the late 1990s when Geshe Michael was unexpectedly approached by Doubleday, the largest U.S. publisher at the time. They invited him to write about ancient wisdom, which became The Garden. Shortly after, he proposed another book applying those principles to modern business—The Diamond Cutter. Written together, these works shaped the foundation for what would later become DCI. While The Diamond Cutter gained international recognition, The Garden remained less known but equally dear to him. (2:00–4:18)

During his three-year retreat from 2000 to 2003, Geshe Michael was unaware of the success of The Diamond Cutter. Upon emerging, he found growing demand worldwide and decided to establish an organization to teach these methods formally. DCI began to take shape around 2008–2009. (4:24–5:32)

The Ultimate Goal: Becoming Unnecessary

Asked how he wants DCI to be perceived, Geshe Michael offered an unusual vision: for DCI to eventually be forgotten. He believes the institute’s mission is fulfilled when its principles become part of global culture—used instinctively, without reference to their source. Like indoor plumbing, once revolutionary but now taken for granted, the seed system should become a natural part of human life. (6:42–7:23; 13:00–16:11)

“My dream is that helping others reach their goals becomes like indoor plumbing—used naturally by everyone, without thought of where it came from.” (15:53–16:05)

Planning Centuries Ahead

Geshe Michael described his way of decision-making as “multi-table billiards.” Each action is struck with foresight, sending ripples across multiple areas—business, emotional, and spiritual—on parallel “tables.” He often plans 10 or 12 moves ahead, even thinking in terms of centuries. The capacity to perceive such cascading consequences, he explained, comes from consistent, accurate meditation. (18:03–23:32)

“Meditation gives the capacity to see many permutations of the future—decades or longer.” (22:16–23:24)

The Senior Teachers of DCI

Geshe Michael also spoke warmly of DCI’s senior teachers, highlighting their unique contributions and qualities:

John Brady — A successful businessman and seasoned meditator, known for his complete honesty and integrity. Geshe Michael considers him one of the rare few with true integrity. (26:04–27:46)

Connie — With backgrounds in environmental science and medicine, she combines strong organizational skills with deep empathy. Her ability to run large operations while remaining profoundly compassionate makes her an ideal teacher. (28:22–31:19)

Nick — A trained engineer and linguist, he brings rational brilliance, musical sensitivity, and a profound capacity for love, strengthened through family life. (31:32–34:56)

Sage — A former UN worker and refugee herself, she demonstrates exceptional compassion, intelligence, and organizational skills. Her work with women refugees deeply impressed Geshe Michael. (35:18–38:02)

Personal Reflections and Legacy

Despite his achievements, Geshe Michael acknowledged his struggles with personal challenges and bad habits. Overcoming these inner battles, he said, is something he rarely shares but deeply values. (45:13–47:10)

Looking ahead, he envisions a future where thousands of individuals continue to embody and spread the seed system. Observing his students’ growth over decades fills him with hope, like “rockets on a beautiful trajectory” toward something great. (49:03–52:19)

As for advice to those carrying on his legacy, he emphasized daily study of great beings of the past. Reading their works, even a few pages at night, is a way to stay guided and inspired. This, combined with meditation, serves as the compass for continuing DCI’s mission. (53:00–56:52)

Key Moments

Visit https://dcighq.com/partners to find a DCI Global Partner in your city and explore the available DCIG Programs near you.