Imperturbable thinking. http://amzn.to/2iZOLK7
Book: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind
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The strength of imperturbable thinking
Shunryu Suzuki uses two words in Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind: imperturbable thinking. The phrase describes a mind that stays steady regardless of circumstances. Praise does not inflate it, and criticism does not shatter it. Thoughts still arise, but they do not knock the mind off balance.
This steadiness is valuable in leadership, crisis and everyday challenges. Pilots, surgeons and emergency workers train to remain calm under pressure. Their composure allows clear decisions when others panic. Similarly, calm thinking helps anyone navigate difficult conversations or setbacks.
Building imperturbable thinking
Regular meditation is one of the most reliable methods. Sitting quietly and returning to the breath strengthens attention and emotional balance. Therefore, the calm practised in quiet moments becomes available during busy ones.
Perspective also helps. Asking will this matter in a year? often shrinks problems to their real size. For example, a harsh comment from a stranger online rarely deserves hours of worry.
Physical habits support steadiness too. Sleep, exercise and good nutrition stabilise mood. Moreover, a tired body makes the mind more reactive.
Stoic philosophers trained a similar quality, which they called ataraxia, a state of tranquillity untroubled by external events.
Imperturbable does not mean emotionless. Feelings still appear. The difference is that they no longer control every decision.
In short, calm is a trainable strength. Therefore, practise two minutes of steady breathing before stressful moments. For instance, do it before an important call. As a result, your thinking will stay clearer when it matters most.
Moreover, steady people help others stay calm. In tense moments, a composed voice can lower the temperature of a whole room. Therefore, calm is a gift to teams as well as to ourselves.
