As long as we are alive, we are always doing something. But as long as you think, “I am doing this,” or “I have to do this,” or “I must attain something special,” you are actually not doing anything. When you give up, when you no longer want something, or when you do not try to do anything special, then you do something. You may feel as if you are doing something special, but actually it is only the expression of your true nature. http://amzn.to/2iZOLK7
Book: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind
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Being alive and doing without striving
Shunryu Suzuki describes a paradox of action in Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind. As long as we are alive, we are always doing something. Yet when we think I am doing this or I must attain something special, we are not really doing anything. True action, in his view, happens when the sense of self-importance fades.
This idea challenges how many of us approach work and goals. We often attach our identity to achievements. The project becomes my project, and success becomes proof of my worth. Suzuki suggests that this attachment actually weakens action, because attention splits between the task and the ego.
Being alive and doing with full attention
Athletes and artists describe something similar. Their best moments happen when they stop thinking about themselves and simply play, paint or perform. Psychologists call this flow. In flow, self-consciousness disappears, and action feels natural and effortless.
Practically, we can reduce ego involvement by focusing on the task rather than on how we look. For example, a speaker who concentrates on helping the audience understand usually performs better than one who worries about being impressive.
Letting go of special achievement also brings relief. Ordinary actions become enough. Therefore, daily tasks gain meaning without needing to be extraordinary.
Moreover, Suzuki notes that what feels special is simply an expression of our true nature. Nothing extra is required.
This attitude supports humility and calm, both at work and at home.
In the end, Suzuki’s teaching invites simple, wholehearted action. Be alive, do what is in front of you and let the sense of specialness go.
