Staying open
The Power of Unlearning
The unfortunate paradox of learning is that the more we become knowledgeable about a certain subject, the more we can become closed-minded to new ideas. Simply the effect of absorbing extensive information around a topic that interests us can lead us to avoid challenging ourselves with different perspectives.
Fortunately, there are certain things we can do to maintain our curiosity and wonder so as to keep our mindset fresh and ready. One method of doing this requires paying close attention to our attitude and thoughts to check if they are not allowing us to give the process our fullest attention.
Because only when we are totally present can we begin to unlearn some of our past insights that need more exploration. This is the process of unlearning, which allows us to release any preconceived judgments or biases that are only holding us back from further understanding.
In Zen Buddhism, there is a popular term called “shoshin,” which means “beginner’s mind.” It is a phrase that refers to one’s approach to the world with new eyes and a childlike willingness to learn.
But the older we become, the harder it gets to stay adaptable to change and new points of view. Nonetheless, there are useful things worth trying for those who are interested in pursuing the art of the beginner’s mind.
1. Foster a Sense of Openness
The longer we do something, the more challenging it can be to rise above our expectations or misconceptions from the past. Naturally, these thoughts come up based on our current situation and whatever related events happened before.
But the truth is that we actually have power over the mind’s tendency to jump to conclusions. We stay open when we decide to let go of old patterns by enjoying a new experience in the moment at hand.
2. Pursue a Flexible Approach
The opposite of the beginner’s mind is one that is hard-wired and insistent on the familiar. Meanwhile, cultivating a style of flexibility resembles the eager willingness that children bring beyond mental reasoning.
Which is why it is more than necessary to drop any rigid manners that are not conducive to creativity. As a result, letting go of intellectual rules by listening to your instincts can go a long way.
3. Learn with Acceptance
The worst thing anyone can do in the middle of learning is to keep judging each and every step in the process. This is a negative form of energy that only generates confusion, anger, and frustration.
But by accepting the reality of things without resistance, you stay level-headed and on top of your task with better clarity. This allows you to move along further and faster since all of your focus is centered on what you can actually control.
4. Explore with Curiosity
In order to avoid the boredom of being in autopilot mode, engaging with a curious attitude is key. Choosing to merely go through the motions not only decreases motivation but also disrupts opportunities for real progress.
We can get curious by changing topics, asking questions, and seeking to understand on a deeper level. While this might mean having to unlearn things we thought we knew, we are inevitably pushing ourselves and expanding our knowledge to new horizons.
5. Take One Step at a Time
At times, we can get in the way of unleashing our full potential by constantly anticipating the next step. But when we act on impulse, we can lose important information by not observing all that is happening with care and effort.
We can take care of this by setting an intention to stay present as much as possible. Through daily meditations and mindfulness exercises, we learn to increase our awareness so that it becomes easier and natural to do throughout the day.
The Joy of Aliveness
Cultivating the beginner’s mind offers plenty of benefits that affect so many aspects of our lives. By developing this state of mind, you can enhance your experiences with increased attention, less procrastination, decreased anxiety, and more connectedness in your relationships.
While this mindset isn’t something we master overnight, even small, consistent practices can make it easier over time. And with each new beginning, we give ourselves permission to grow.
