Shoshin: The Beginner's Mind

Shoshin is the Zen Buddhism concept of the "beginner's mind." It means to view the world through fresh eyes by removing preconceptions and exploring your subject with enthusiasm and an open mind. It's an attitude we can use when approaching old problems because it frees us from the burden of our past failures and successes. It can open doors to creative solutions and new perspectives. I often find it difficult to release myself from my past shortcomings, negative emotions, or just plain feeling stupid. However, the concept of Shoshin can make the difference between a "failure" or an "experiment with unexpected results;" the latter is more empathetic and accurate.

Approaching old problems with curiosity and enthusiasm

A surprising place where I've applied Shoshin is in my long-term relationships. I started dating my girlfriend two years ago, and one year ago, we moved in together. We've seen a lot of each other in that time, and it's difficult to maintain perspective when you're that close to somebody. It can be hard to continue the romance and generate new ideas for dates, activities, and the relationship as a whole.

How I apply Shoshin is when planning a date night, I imagine my partner as a stranger; I imagine every date is our first date. When I approach the problem of what to do next with a beginner's mindset in my relationship, any expectations I place on myself release their grip, and I'm free to envision more creative solutions. This has led to more exciting experiences for both of us and continues to enhance our connection.

Back to the beginning

If we go back to the beginning, we are open to exploring a new course through a familiar environment; there are always multiple ways to reach the summit. People have their reasons for doing their work in a particular way, but it might be outdated or inefficient, and a better path is just waiting to be discovered with our new eyes. As we gain experience in solving a problem, our vision narrows as we hone in on what has worked in the past. Paradoxically, to gain mastery, we can't view the problem through the eyes of an expert; we need to see the problem through the eyes of someone at the beginning. Release the ego, adopt Shoshin, and look at the world with the wonder of a child.