50 It is only when we make mistakes in performance that we can really begin to notice what needs attention. In fact, I actively train my students that when they make a mistake, they are to lift their arms in the air, smile, and say, "How fascinating!" I recommend that everyone try this. Not only mistakes, but even those experiences we ordinarily define as "negative" can be treated in this way.

Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra and professor at the New England Conservatory of Music, in The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life, which he wrote with Rosamund Stone Zander

QUESTIONS FOR THOUGHT OR DISCUSSION:
What is my capacity for embracing mistakes as a part of the learning process? Am I living so carefully that I do not make mistakes? How can I stay curious when I make mistakes, rather than moving into self-blame? What would it take for me to risk making more mistakes in the service of rising to a new standard of excellence in my work?

51 In defeat, we are forced to lay down our sword; in active surrender, we consciously choose to lay it down. We consciously accept that certain things are beyond our control. We consciously accept that certain things should be beyond our control. We learn to separate out what needs action from what requires our acceptance and embrace. We choose the unknown. Practicing active surrender is important because it is as much a source of energy and freedom as taking action is. And it is often needed when we approach situations with love rather than power.

Marion Woodman from Coming Home to Myself

QUESTIONS FOR THOUGHT OR DISCUSSION:
Where in my work life do I really not have control? Am I surrendering in these places? What happens when I am not able to let go when I need to? How can I increase my capacity for active surrender?

<< First | < Previous

52 The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

Rumi from The Essential Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks

QUESTIONS FOR THOUGHT OR DISCUSSION:
What is my capacity for welcoming whatever comes my way? Do I fight what comes or do I accept it and look for the gift and the life lesson? Try an experiment: for one week, express gratitude for everything that happens in your life. What impact did doing this have on you, your family, your colleagues, and your work?