The holidays—they’re magical and overwhelming, aren’t they? One minute, I’m basking in the glow of twinkling lights, and the next, I’m knee-deep in the chaos of to-do lists, family commitments, and wrapping up business goals.
Just a few mornings ago, I sat with my coffee, staring out the window after returning from a Thanksgiving-filled whirlwind with family. The quiet wasdeafening. I missed the noise, the laughter, the bustle of having loved ones around. Then, as I mentally spiraled through all the things I needed to do—the gifts, the meals, the planning—I paused.
I took a deep breath and decided to try something different. I turned to a practice that has saved me more than once: approaching the moment with a beginner’s mind.
Let me tell you what happened next.
What Is Beginner’s Mind?
It’s simple: Beginner’s mind is about seeing the world as if it’s brand new. Consider how kids light up at things we adults might dismiss—like the sparkle of snow or the scent of fresh cookies. They don’t carry assumptions or expectations; they just are.
For us grown-ups, it’s a little trickier. We’ve got baggage. Stress. That nagging little voice that says, “You don’t have time for this.” But the truth is, every moment offers a chance to let go of the old stories we tell ourselves and embrace the possibility of something new.
How I Practiced Beginner’s Mind
That morning, instead of sinking into holiday overwhelm, I consciously decided to pivot. Here’s what I did—and how you can try it too:
- I Paused and Noticed
I held my coffee and sat still. I felt the warmth of the mug in my hands, the silence of the house, and yes, the ache in my heart. I let myself feel it all without running from it. - I Chose to See the Newness
Instead of focusing on the emptiness, I noticed the cozy glow of the holiday lights I’d put up, the softness of my favorite blanket, and the way the sunlight hit the wall. - I Let Go of the Old Story
Normally, I’d replay my usual thoughts: “There’s so much to do,” or “The house feels too quiet now.” But this time, I told myself, This is a brand-new moment. Let’s see what it holds. - I Found Joy in the Smallest Things
Wrapping gifts later that day, I noticed the smoothness of the paper, the satisfying snip of the scissors, and the fun of making each present a little extra special.
Why This Works
I’ve realized that you don’t need to erase your stress to feel joy. By stepping into the moment with a beginner’s mind, you can:
- Break out of autopilot thinking. Instead of reacting to life, you get to experience it.
- Create space for joy. Even tiny moments, like hearing a favorite song or sipping tea, can feel magical.
- Focus on what matters. When you’re present, you’re not worrying about what’s next—you’re just here.
Your Turn
This week, I challenge you to try beginner’s mind for yourself.
- Pause and breathe when things feel overwhelming.
- Ask, What’s new here? What have you never noticed before?
- Let go of the stories you’ve been telling yourself about how things “should” go.
- Savor the little things: a candle’s scent, a heartfelt conversation, or the first bite of a holiday treat.
I promise, it’s worth the effort. You might even surprise yourself.
Let’s Connect
I’d love to hear from you: What’s one way you’ll try to approach the holidays with fresh eyes? Hit reply and let me know. And if this moment inspired you, feel free to share it with someone who might need it.
