In Zen Buddhism, there is a concept called Shoshin , or "beginner’s mind." It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when at an advanced level.
When you "be new," you access three superpowers that most experts have lost: amateur be new
: Reports on how new tools (like AI or digital platforms) are empowering amateur creators or scientists. In Zen Buddhism, there is a concept called
That grammatically odd phrase—"amateur be new"—is actually a perfect piece of Zen wisdom. It isn't a mistake. It is a command. It translates simply: To be an amateur is to be new again. It isn't a mistake
The professional says, "I have mastered this." The amateur says, "I am new to this version of the problem." The professional relies on muscle memory; the amateur relies on fresh eyes.
Here is the secret the "amateurs" know that the "pros" have forgotten: