In 2011, 13 years ago, I visited Kameoka, a small village near Kyoto, Japan, to meet an influential Zen Buddhist master.
Welcomed by the master and a German monk with love and compassion, my days started at 4 AM with walking meditation, followed by sitting practice on zazen (a meditation cushion).
As a Westerner and a molecular biologist used to constant performance and achievement, this experience was the complete opposite of my day-to-day.
I learned how to sit quietly, calming my mind in a half-lotus seat.
After a day, my leg hurt so much that I needed painkillers for the next two weeks! But that pain sparked something profound—my journey of inner exploration and self-reflection had begun.
One challenge I notice when working with leaders and entrepreneurs is that they, too, are driven by achievement. They’re wired to set goals and meet them, but meditation is on the opposite end of the spectrum.
In meditation, you learn to accept what is—without any expectations or outcomes. There are no results to chase, no performance to perfect. It’s about being present.
Sounds scary? For many, it is.
But for those who embark on this transformational journey, inner peace and freedom await.
Here are three concise tips for integrating meditation into a busy schedule:
1. Micro-Meditations:
Start by taking 5-10 minutes in the morning or between meetings to center yourself by following your breath. You can sit relaxed on a chair.
2. Mindful Moments:
Incorporate mindfulness into daily tasks like commuting or eating by focusing on your breath and surroundings.
3. Schedule It:
Treat meditation like a meeting. Block 5-10 minutes on your calendar to make it a priority.
These small shifts can bring calm and clarity to your hectic day and are a must -have tool for leaders.
One question for the Weekend
Am I too busy to sit 5 minutes in silence?
I am curious to know.
Love
Matthias