Feelings of stuckness and overwhelm can paralyze us or break our confidence. We try harder but as a result we move further from the quiet, still voice that does indeed have creative solutions to our problems. Sometimes we have to step back and even walk away.  At a time when we’re filling our minds, homes and bodies with unnecessary stuff to prevent from feeling the truth of who we are, stepping away and re-connecting with Source brings some much-needed relief.

Here are three zen concepts that not only simplify but add tremendous energy and creativity into our work and life.

Wu Wei Wu

Wu Wei Wu means action through inaction. By integrating the concept of Wu Wei Wu in our lives we allow things to flow through us rather than from us. From this space of receptivity, the action steps are revealed to us and the execution becomes effortless and even enjoyable. Taoist philosophy refers to this concept as Wu Wei Wu, or action through inaction. Lao Tzu, author of Tao Te Ching wrote:

“Tao abides in non-action. Yet nothing is ever left undone.”

How is this even possible? Well let’s look at the realities here. There are many things that just have to be done. Bills have to be paid, the car serviced and the dental appointment made. All aspects of our daily, practical life will require action first. It is with our big-picture reality that the art of being becomes valuable and meaningful, for instance in the realm of personal and spiritual growth and in the understanding of our dharma (taking our gifts to the world). These bigger pursuits require for us to be rather than do. To allow the answers to unfold instead of chasing after them.

Most creative and successful people stress the importance of downtime. They say it’s where they find their best, most creative, most invigorating, soul-stirring, world-changing, peace-generating, love-infusing ideas. There is a truth to their revelation. There are greater powers available to us than our analytical, thinking mind. When we go within and tap into the same intelligence and wisdom that guides this universe, that makes each flower bloom, that alchemizes an egg and a sperm into new life, we have access to some powerful insights about your time on this planet.

“Don’t Know” Mind

It often seems like we need to have all the answers. When you have answers you don’t have space for not knowing, which brings open- mindedness along with possibilities.

In Zen Buddhism there is space for the “Don’t Know” mind. This is considered a great place to be. Unfortunately, saying “Don’t Know” usually doesn’t win you any prizes with colleagues, teachers, or even sometimes friends. However, you need to honor your “Don’t Know” mind. Revel in the fact that you have no clue about something and let your mind stay empty on this topic. Notice what happens. Do you start to panic because you don’t have the answer, or do you rest and enjoy not knowing?

Once you are in a relaxed “Don’t Know” mind watch how your mind stays open and flexible. From this openness and flexibility new and creative ideas and solutions can come up that your knowing mind could’ve never come up with.

Keep it Zen

There’s a tangible relationship between the life we desire and the clutter in our life. Manifestation requires movement, movement requires the absence of blockages. We need to ask ourselves where are experiencing blockages – in our body, home, mind, workplace that we need to release.
An unhealthy attachment to things or people can get us stuck in more ways than we realize. Old jewelry that might be bogging us down, clothes that we hope to fit into someday, papers from a failed business venture, old records or jerseys that remind us of a certain happy time. Clutter not only takes up physical space, but it drains us of our vitality too. Clean out one section of your house and see if you feel a difference in that room’s energy (and yours).
In the comments, share how these Zen concepts resonate in your daily life? And which one would you like to start practicing right away.

Want to incorporate these and more intuitive and spiritual concepts into your work? I’m retiring my popular coaching program ’90-days to Kickstart Your Best Life’. This is your last chance to work with me at this current price. If you feel guided, check out the program details here. Have questions? Want more information? Let’s have a virtual chai date. Book your complimentary 30-minute session with me here.