Embracing Your Curiosity

The power of a beginner’s mindset.

Teronie Donaldson
Practice in Public
3 min readDec 16, 2023

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Photo by Sebastian Pandelache on Unsplash

“In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s mind, there are few.” -Shunryu Suzuki.

Having a beginner’s mind means approaching the world through a beginner’s eyes. The term is translated from the original word, Shoshin, which is a word that comes from Zen Buddhism. It means you look at every situation you’re in as if it’s the first time you see it.

In an era where many want to get seen as the expert, where expertise and specialization get celebrated, there’s a hidden gem often overlooked — the beginner’s mindset.

This approach encourages us to maintain a sense of wonder, question the obvious, and embrace curiosity as a lifelong companion.

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” — Albert Einstein.

The essence of a beginner’s mindset

The beginner’s mindset is rooted in approaching situations with fresh eyes, unburdened by preconceived notions or assumptions.

It’s a stance that values curiosity over certainty, opening the door to continuous learning and growth. In a constantly evolving world, those who embrace the beginner’s mindset navigate change with resilience and adaptability.

Questioning the obvious

Often, the most profound insights lie in the seemingly mundane or obvious. While experts may overlook the basics, beginners question everything, unveiling hidden complexities and alternative perspectives.

By challenging what is taken for granted, new ideas emerge, and innovative solutions become apparent. The power of questioning the obvious lies in its potential to disrupt established norms and pave the way for progress.

Learning from experience

The beginner’s mindset isn’t confined to those new to a field. Even seasoned professionals can benefit from approaching their work with a fresh, curious outlook.

By consistently questioning assumptions and seeking new information, people can leverage their experience while avoiding complacency. This balance between expertise and curiosity fosters a dynamic, resilient personal and professional development approach.

Cultivating creativity

Creativity flourishes in an environment where questions are welcomed and assumptions are challenged.

The beginner’s mindset serves as fertile ground for innovative thinking and problem-solving. By reframing questions and considering alternative viewpoints, individuals can break free from conventional thought patterns, leading to breakthroughs and novel ideas.

Conclusion

Maintaining a beginner’s mindset becomes an act of courage and wisdom in a world that often rewards expertise and specialization.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us heed Einstein’s advice and not cease questioning. Embracing curiosity as a guiding force, we unlock the doors to discovery, innovation, and lifelong learning.

The beginner’s mindset is not a retreat from expertise but a harmonious blend of experience and curiosity — a recipe for personal and collective growth.

So, let us remain perpetual beginners, ever curious and open to the wonders that unfold when we question the obvious.

All the best.

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Teronie Donaldson
Practice in Public

Student of life. I write about books, productivity, reading, and applying what I learned. I hope it helps. *Check me out *https://linktr.ee/Teronie