Quiet Mind, Big Ideas: Zen and Innovation

Author: Vishy (Viswanathan) Sankara

Google's Innovation Guru on Mindfulness and Creativity

Frederik Pferdt, the first-ever Chief Innovation Evangelist of Google, has recently published a book, "What's Next Is Now: How to Live Future Ready". According to him, the book can help anyone live a more meaningful life. It's highly recommended as a guide to mindfulness and innovation.

The Power of Self-Reflection: Finding Innovation in Solitude

The book emphasizes the importance of taking breaks regularly, just to be with yourself. It's not about taking a vacation with family and friends, but rather taking time to be just with yourself. Practicing mindfulness and self-care more frequently is key.

Historical Perspectives on Meditation and Solitude

There is a famous quote by Kafka related to mindful meditation: "You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait, be quiet, still, and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choice, it will roll in ecstasy at your feet."

French Philosopher and Mathematician Pascal too wrote about the value of solitude, "All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone."

Meditation: A Tool for Open-Mindedness and Positivity

Pferdt says, "Meditating every day helps to keep him open to new ideas and steer away from negativity." The word "MEDIT" literally means to focus one's thoughts, reflect on, or ponder over - key aspects of mindfulness practices.

Eastern vs. Western Perspectives on Mindfulness

For many in the Western world, hardwired in their brain with that dry logic of Aristotle, mindfulness and meditation are just means to meet some other ends. A de-stressor, productivity enhancer, and some soothing balm for their tired nerves. But for an orientalist, who has grown up in the cradle of Patanjali, Buddha, Nagarjuna, Bodhidharma, Tao, and Zen, the journey is the destination.

A Personal Journey into Zen Meditation

I have been a student of spirituality and meditation for some 30+ years. Seeds of Zen were planted in my mind in the most unlikely of places: West Haven, in June 1998.

Zen in Sports: Learning from Phil Jackson

The Chicago Bulls Coach, Phil Jackson, got my eye and attention. There was an article in the NYTimes that he used to make players like Dennis Rodman, who was an out-and-out rebellious, rule-breaking, toughie, and Scottie Pippen and the larger-than-life Michael Jordan were managed by the Zen Coach, Phil Jackson.

Discovering Bodhi Zendo: A Unique Approach to Zen

AMA Samy and Bodhi Zendo were different. I would compare Bodhi Zendo a bit with Esalen, of Big Sur, CA. It is one of the most beautiful places of learning I have visited.

The Wisdom of AMA Samy: A Zen Master's Approach

Even then, it took me 3 years to seek to be accepted as AMA's Zen student. AMA Samy had one of the best collections of books on spirituality, philosophy, theology, and psychology that I have seen in my life.

The Essence of Zen Teaching: Non-Teaching

"The master cannot give you satori; she/he is there to guide, to challenge, to test, to confirm. In truth, the world is your teacher, the whole life of birth and death is the training field."

Continuing the Zen Journey: Little Flower Zendo

I have been a student of AMA Samy for some 9+ years now and since Jan 2023, almost every month I have made it a point to be there in Little Flower Zendo, Perumal Malai, Kodaikanal, continuing my journey of Zen meditation and personal growth.

Elevate Your Coaching Practice

If you're inspired by the power of Zen meditation and its potential to contribute to your personal growth, consider deepening your skills with coaching. Coacharya's upcoming face-to-face ICF Level 1 coach training program integrates systemic, spiritual elements and reflective practice, aligning perfectly with the principles discussed above. Ready to transform yourself? Check out Coacharya's programs and take the next step in becoming a more mindful, innovative coach.

Author’s Note:As a Zen student, I believe there's no better recommendation than sharing the path that has guided me. AMA Samy and Little Flower Zendo (https://littleflowerzendo.in) have been instrumental in my own journey of self-discovery and growth. If you're curious about Zen meditation, I encourage you to explore this authentic and transformative practice.