October 06, 2009

What would you rather be, a novice or an expert?


We like being the expert. More often than not, our expertise is tied to our self-esteem and, to some degree, our earning power. We like feeling like we have everything under control. We think we know just what to do. But when we approach a situation with an expert’s attitude, we stand before closed doors. We are slaves to our fixed views, which may or may not have any significant bearing on the current situation. Our expertise can often taint our view of the current situation.

Ask yourself, in what situations does expertise suggest certainty? Control? Competence? Sheer comfort? Complacency?

Then ask yourself, are beginners powerless or open to possibility?


“In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities,
but in the expert's, there are few."
- Shunryu Suzuki-Roshi, Zen Master


Assuming the role of a beginner is a difficult thing to do. Especially when we have rich experiences behind us. Not only do we wish to be in the know, we also want others to see us that way. Often, that is how we advance in our professions and gain ground toward our goals—we appear to be experts. But, even experts can (and should!) be a beginner. Being a beginner doesn’t mean you have to give up control. It simply means you’re willing to learn, to consider fresh perspectives, to observe and to seek deeper, more valuable knowledge.

Being a beginner also means letting go of our desire to look good, and that letting go makes us vulnerable. It can threaten our self-assurance and self-esteem. That's why people who are most comfortable in their skin also have the emotional capacity and cognitive drive to be a beginner, to move through the challenges of learning and re-learning, then advance once again into mastery.

Who has time to be a beginner? When time is money and money is a significant measure of results, it’s difficult to give yourself (and your team) the time and the resources to “look again.” But, if the situation gave you pause and merited your attention in the first place, why cheat yourself with a snap decision? Instead of assuming the role of the expert, let go of your preconceptions and the idea that “I’ve seen this before.” Make space in your calendar. Make space in your mind and your heart. Renew your commitment to yourself and your team and say, “I’m open to learning more.”

Further Reading: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki

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