Bring out your inner beginner! (Resisting Change #2)

How many times do you reject the idea of something because you’ve done it, or something similar, before?  Where you think there’s no point because you know it, it didn’t work, you won’t get anything new?  Or you’re doing something familiar on autopilot and not getting the same benefit as you used to?

I know I’m terrible for this! 

But I also know that means I can miss out on things that I might enjoy, which might help me, which might be an interesting experience…

And so I work hard to tap into my “beginner’s mind”.  Trying to approach things afresh, to experience them as if they were entirely new and to park any feelings of expertise, familiarity or going through the motions.

(and help my clients to do the same because I know I’m not the only one to struggle with this!)

Next time you notice yourself feeling jaded or resistant (look out for that inner voice saying things like “what’s the point?” or “I know that already”, even “it didn’t work before”), try to imagine coming at this like a complete beginner.

Notice each moment as something afresh, without trying to pre-empt what’s coming next or what you’ve encountered before.

Be aware of any assumptions and try to release them.

Be curious, be aware and be present – remember you’re brand new to this.

This is what’s meant by welcoming a beginner’s mind.  And I know it seems different to what we usually try to do – boosting our inner confidence by becoming familiar, being expert, knowing things inside out.

But honestly, it can be a really powerful tool – like a turboboost to all you’re doing or want to try again. 

And it fits well with this mini Resistance to Change series (check out the previous blog if you feel you’re often slamming on the brakes when there’s something new ahead))