Mind Shift: How to Adopt a Beginner's Mind
The realization hit me like a sack of potatoes—in the form of truffle french fries I was eyeing on the menu at our girl’s dinner.
I had unconsciously zoned out as my friend started to share a recent story with the larger group—one that I thought I already knew—so I peered down at the menu and thus, didn’t hear a new, key piece of information. If it wasn’t for the surprised exclamations and words of cheer from friends at the table, I would have not realized that by dialing-down listening I was about to miss the news that she received her coveted promotion.
This self-promise, to be where the words are, even if I assumed that I already knew what was being discussed or about the topic at hand, is a word derived from Zen Buddhism known as Shoshin, which means “beginner’s mind.” It encourages valuing each conversation, opening your mind up to assuming the role of a student once more, and in doing so, being gifted with new knowledge that you would have missed if you thought that you already knew it all. It is a valuable tool that has allowed me to grant myself permission to be present and to rediscover the beauty and wisdom behind new learnings.
It can be as easy as cultivating awareness around a habit we did not even realize we took on in the first place and adopting a new way of viewing conversations and the world around us. The added bonus of a small mind shift can create an impactful ripple effect, as in improving your quality of life, you are also improving those relationships around you. You may find that you become more present and a better listener, making loved ones feel valued and in return, making yourself even happier to feel their warmth and worthiness.
Don’t worry, the truffle french fries will be served, but moments may pass if you let them.
May today be the day that you consider opening your mind up to receiving those gifts and view the world with awe once more.
—Alexandra
Alexandra Mullen is an enthused writer and Empowerment Coach. She is a self-nurturing, spirituality-focused, and light-hearted blogger who is gaining recognition from global authors she features. When she isn’t writing or working alongside her incredible clients, you can find her buried in Self-Help Books at Barnes & Noble, playing on the ground with her baby girl, Teddy, or listening to Frank Sinatra while cooking pasta dishes with the love of her life, Conor. You can learn more about her journey at: www.alexandramullen.com/about.