Oh, That's So Zen

A book I had written was published at the start of the summer. My first one. A few weeks later, someone presented to me a copy she had purchased asking me to please sign it. After all the wrangling with finding the right words and the give and take in the editing process, you would think that scribbling one or two sentences on the inside cover would be a piece of cake. I deliberated for a moment, then wrote:

“Enjoy the journey as you make your dream come alive.”

I thought that it captured the gist of what the book was really about and fit the circumstances. I hadn’t counted on her response – “oh, how Zen!”

She meant it as a compliment and I took it that way. Clearly, she was more knowledgeable and conversant about Zen philosophy than I. With my curiosity piqued, I read more about it and, well I guess I really do live some of it at times. I realized that some principles could even be found in the book.

What I learned is that the Zen principle of "enjoying the journey" emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment and finding joy and meaning in the process, rather than solely fixating on an outcome. It encourages a shift in mindset from a goal-oriented approach to a process-oriented one; a shift still difficult for me to fully embrace. Actually, it’s the letting go of the former that’s challenging.

Zen Masters are not hyper-focused on the achievement of results. They focus on the habits, the rituals, and the processes that support that way of living. They believe the outcomes will take care of themselves, or not, as they are supposed to. And they live understanding that nothing really changes once you achieve something - you still have to do what you’re meant to do.

This principle aligns with several core concepts in overall Zen Buddhism and mindfulness:

Present moment awareness: Zen teaches being fully present and engaged in the here and now, experiencing each moment as it unfolds. This means paying attention to sensations, thoughts, and emotions without judgment.

Process over outcome: Rather than obsessing over the final destination, Zen encourages appreciating and finding value in the journey itself.

Acceptance and letting go: Letting go of attachments to specific outcomes and embracing what is happening now is crucial for experiencing the present moment fully.

Mindful action: Every activity, no matter how mundane, can become an opportunity for mindful practice, enriching the experience and bringing meaning to everyday tasks.

Resilience and agility: By embracing the process and adapting to challenges, it's possible to cultivate a mindset that's more resilient to setbacks and more capable of handling life’s ever-changing landscape.

Life is a journey with twists and turns. Zen Masters teach us to embrace the uncertainty and learn from the experiences; not running to something new at the first obstacle, or chasing a mirage. The Japanese Zen Buddhist Monk Dōgen Zenji challenged us with these words: “If you are unable to find the truth (or happiness) right where you are, where else do you expect to find it?”

In time, following the principle of "enjoying the journey" in your life enables you to find greater purpose, contentment, and resilience. Along the way, the Zen way of life also encourages us to cultivate gratitude - taking time to appreciate the good things in our lives and expressing gratitude for these experiences.