Before you knew about a thing,

there was no judgement.

Especially in today’s western world,

we seem to be growing up quicker.

There is almost no choice.

Because of the continuous exposure to false pleasures, and pressures to be happy,

we want all of the things at a younger and younger age.

Growing up fast doesn’t mean you are better equipped emotionally,

in fact, I think the imbalance between societal maturity

and emotional intelligence is extremely harmful.

Beginners mind is a concept I have studied over the years through my yoga practice

and other eastern arts and philosophies.

It is an idea that we can shift our perspective

back to before the mind was jaded and judging,

look at the same situation, person or event

as though we are experiancing it for the first time.

This isn’t easy, but a great practice in mindful thinking.

Remembering we are in control of our thoughts in any moment.

The fact is, that each moment IS a new experience.

We prejudge so much of our life,

that we don’t allow ourselves the moments of wonder and awe we deserve,

and frankly, we are stripping that sweetness from the lives of our children.

I have a new motto in my house when things start to get a little crazy.

Stop, take a breath and smile.

It snaps you out of your normal ways of reacting

and allows for new, softer ways of responding to life.

It’s really a breath of fresh air to allow a sense of innocents back into your life.

This technique is very usefuly for our creative endeavors.

When practicing yoga, painting, playing music or even a walk you have taken 100 times,

can you step into the seat of curiosity?

What will be different this time if you are not just going through the motions?

You will be surprised about what shows up and it also takes pressure off of perfection.

Pick one thing you do regularly and for a month,

approach it with eyes wide open.