Seven Zen Lessons for Work
Simple principles to enlighten your workdays.
Zen practice — which is nothing more or less than a way of living whole-heartedly — has some simple but profound principles for our Work.
Today thought it would be helpful to briefly list the most enlightening Lessons I have learned from my study and practice of Zen, both formally and in the context of my professional career.
These Lessons are enlightening in two senses: they illuminate best practices for all forms of work; and they make you feel lighter. (And don’t things feel heavy these days, what with the Metacrisis, and all?)
I hope you find these helpful.
Attention is everything. Your attention transforms the object of attention. It is your most precious resource.
“Zoom out” early and often. See the big picture. Don’t miss the forest for the trees, the garden for the weeds. Not only will you act more wisely, your nervous system will thank you.
Know your Why. When intention guides attention, you establish your own ground of meaning, instead of defaulting into a consensus (or unconscious) reality which is often chaotic, confused, or insane.
Speak less. Silence is usually better than talking. It’s true. Give it a try.
Steward your resources wisely. The material world can be a bear. Time, money, information, allies, energy ….. and trust. Offer these currencies with discernment (and grace). Receive them with gratitude.
Work is an affair of the heart. Colleagues and clients are brothers and sisters; your workproducts are the children of your sacred service. Let love inform your work.
Keep it simple. Keep it light. Enough said.
Hey, you said let love inform your work, but live became a rare commodity in my life after my child was born. I consider my life to be about love and happiness, but if I was working for a boss, I wouldn't be able to fill my work deliberately with love, though I'd love to.