Before yoga and meditation came into my life, I didn't understand the value of being a perpetual beginner. In fact, I admonished myself for stopping and starting so many things - fitness programs, nutrition plans, hobbies, books - anything you can think of.
Beginner's mind Is a celebrated concept in the yogic culture, as well as in meditation. It took me a while to understand why, and while I am not well-versed in these ancient concepts, I understand what it means better than I did before, just from my lived experience.
It used to be that being a beginner felt as though I didn't accomplish anything.
Now I know that beginning something anew Is taking a fresh look at It.
Thinking of myself as a beginner no matter how many years of experience I might have with something allows for humility.
Humility allows me the courage to be vulnerable.
Being vulnerable allows me to be more human, fallible, and make mistakes.
Mistakes I can forgive now because I can begin again. Being fallible and vulnerable doesn't feel like the end of the world.
In today's worldview of one-upmanship, holier than thou attitudes, hard-nosed, hyper- focus on success, if you think of yourself a beginner, you reduce the power your ego has on who you are. I've fallen Into this trap myself, so I'm not blaming anyone, simply pointing out that thinking of yourself as a beginner might be as liberating for you as it has been for me.
As a perpetual beginner, I now allow myself more room to grow.
More room to practice.
I give myself more grace.
I am kinder to myself.
Because I was just a beginner yesterday.
I'm still a beginner.
Tomorrow, I will still be a beginner.
And it's a beautiful opportunity to "just keep swimming."