HAVE A BEGINNER’S MIND
One of the greatest factors contributing to anxiety is a sense of overwhelm: “I don’t know what I’m doing” or “I’m not ready”. The key to alleviating this anxiety is to seek help.
As a psychotherapist, one of the first things we’re trained to assess for is how strong a support system a client has. Do you have people to help guide you, support and encourage you and hold the space for your growth and development?
When we enter into what Buddhism calls – “The Beginner’s Mind” – we humble ourselves, let go of the need to be right and give ourselves permission to not know everything. Ahhh! Sweet relief. To be a student. To sit at the feet of a guru. To not know.
The word “guru” translates to mean the “remover of darkness”. One who sheds light on a particular subject. One who lights the way and paves the path. One who illumines your True Self.
When we sit at the feet of a great teacher, one who has gone before, we are cradled in their expertise, experience and wisdom. Like a warm bath, we feel at ease.
Last week, I had the distinct pleasure and honor of assisting my mentor, supervisor and colleague, Dr. Ron Alexander at his Esalen workshop. It’s been a long time since I sat in the role of student and apprentice in this formal way. I found such simple pleasure in assisting him, anticipating his needs and adding my own unique voice to the group discussion. I remembered that I don’t have to know everything. Inspiration and wisdom pours in when we are soft, receptive, humble and open.
This week, your challenge is to dissolve your need to know everything and seek out a mentor:
Remember, we are all in this together. Building a strong teacher/mentor relationship is one of the best strategies to succeed and know that you are not alone.
In the comments below, please tell us who your greatest mentors and teachers are. Share what strategies reduce your overwhelm. When you’re feeling like you don’t know what you’re doing…what helps most?
Love,
Ashley
Here’s a list of 8 of my greatest teachers (in no particular order):
Please share your mentors + teachers below!
Anyone have any suggestions for a book/mentor on gaining direction in one’s life?
Thanks,
Kelsey
I’ve learned so much from so many! I’ve had some wonderful sponsors in 12 step and have to honour that.
My other mentors/teachers who I have never met have been:
Louise Hay, Susan Weed, Hala Khouri, Ashley Judd,
Dr Clarisa Pinkola Estes, Marianne Williamson, Erich Schiffman, Karen Zebroff, Teri Cole Whittaker, and of course, yourself. And, more!
I also have to mention my dear friend, Angela Prider, who is a Shaman, artist, therapist, teacher and who has taught me so much and still does. Thanks!
Ashley, this may seem a silly question, although, not totally unrelated. I am asking it of a few people who I learn from and who I would take workshops and be more directly mentored and love to have as ‘my teacher’ if I could afford to do so.
I did take Live Your Truth at a sliding scale rate at Enthos and learned a lot and practice your Stress Release DVD.
So, is it appropriate to refer to you as my teacher – a teacher of mine etc? For instance, if I were to quote you in conversation, or FB. Or, would that be reserved for those who attend your classes and who are your actual students?
Thank you!
Hi Ashley
I also feel blessed to associate with amazing woman who have guided me through life love them
1.Seane Corn my mentor who inspired my own yoga practice and activism work
2. Ashley turner – my fitness role model whose dvds I love and help me to improve my self image
3. Kathryn budig who is s passionate about life, yoga and writing
4. Gabrielle Bernstein my spiritual advisor and soul sister