Mindfulness meets dark humour – What we can really learn from Murder Mindfully
The Netflix series Murder Mindfully brings together two seemingly contradictory worlds in a quirky and entertaining way: mindfulness and the life of a contract killer. What looks at first glance like a pitch-black comedy actually contains, on closer inspection, a surprising number of prompts for more awareness, presence – and perhaps even a more fulfilled life.
In this article, we take a look at the series from a life coaching perspective and uncover the valuable parallels to genuine mindfulness practice hidden within it.
What is Murder Mindfully about?
Based on the bestselling book of the same name by Karsten Dusse, the series tells the story of Björn Diemel, a stressed-out lawyer who attends a mindfulness seminar at his wife’s request – and radically changes his life. Instead of letting his stressful daily routine keep steamrolling him, Björn begins to apply the principles of mindfulness to his entire life. The problem: he works for the mafia. What follows is an absurd yet profound journey towards a more mindful life – murder and meditation included.
What does this have to do with real coaching and mindfulness?
More than you might think, actually. Murder Mindfully may exaggerate things satirically, but the core principles Björn is taught are genuinely authentic:
1. Living in the here and now
Björn learns to direct his attention to the present moment – whether he’s brushing his teeth or talking to a mafia boss. In real life, this practice helps us reduce stress, make clearer decisions and act with greater emotional awareness.
2. Taking responsibility
Instead of blaming others, Björn starts taking responsibility for his feelings, actions and boundaries – a central aspect of coaching. Only those who reflect on themselves can set real change in motion.
3. Setting boundaries
Although Björn’s methods are rather drastic, he gets one crucial thing exactly right: without clear personal boundaries, we easily come under pressure, lose ourselves – or explode. In coaching, it’s about communicating boundaries respectfully and consciously, not with violence.
4. Deciding consciously
“Don’t do anything you can’t do mindfully.” This line from the series makes a powerful life motto. In everyday terms, it means making decisions that align with our values. Not out of fear or on autopilot – but with clarity.
Season 2 is coming – and it’s worth the wait
Good news for all fans of the series: Netflix has officially announced a second season of Murder Mindfully. According to Moviepilot, the sequel is expected to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026. The series is based on Karsten Dusse’s successful book series, which now spans five volumes, so there’s plenty of material for more exciting and funny episodes to come.
Conclusion: Dark humour with real depth
Murder Mindfully is more than just entertainment – it’s a creative invitation to question your own way of living. Of course, no one benefits from us mindfully “eliminating” people – but the metaphor is powerful: when we “let go” of toxic patterns, burdensome thoughts and unhealthy relationships, space opens up for a more conscious, more fulfilled life.
Your next step
If you feel that your life is currently too fast, too loud or too chaotic – take a moment and breathe deeply. You don’t have to resort to murder to live more mindfully 😉
As a certified life coach, I’m happy to help you find clarity, set boundaries and shape your path towards a conscious life.
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