Shoshin - The Beginners Mind
Shoshin (初心) is a word from Zen Buddhism meaning "beginner's mind." Shoshin refers to the intention of letting go of your predispositions and having an approach of openness when studying a subject.
When you are an actual beginner, your mind is clear and unrestricted. You're willing to absorb and examine all information, similar to a child learning something for the first time. As you develop knowledge and expertise, however, your mind naturally becomes more closed. You tend to think, “I already know how to do this” and you become less open to new information.
There is a danger that comes with expertise. Most people don't want new knowledge, they want to validate their views. As grown-ups, our preceding experience prevents us from seeing things from a different perspective. “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” - zen master Shunryo Suzuki
How to find your beginner’s mind
Here are some effective techniques to rediscover your beginner's mind and adopt the idea of shoshin.
Let go of the need to add value.
Many people, particularly high achievers, have an unusual need to contribute value. This sounds like a great thing, but in practice, it can limit your growth because you never have a conversation where you authentically listen.
Let go of the need to win every argument.
This is a belief that corresponds well with the idea of shoshin. If you're having a conversation and someone makes a remark that you know to be incorrect, try releasing the urge to edit them. Letting go of the need to prove a point opens up the possibility for you to learn something new.
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