Often times, when we are concerned with a problem, we rely on past experience to give us solutions. This approach works well in the academic world, but in the real world, there are new, perplexing problems that confront us. In martial arts, there is a concept called "Beginner's Mind", which is the sense of looking freshly at something. Novices have not yet learned the complexities of a discipline, so it makes sense that they try to absorb every bit of information they can. However, experienced individuals are able to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information.
Like anything else, "Beginner's Mind" has both pros and cons. Experience is powerful because it allows us to eliminate unnecessary detail and focus on the important aspects of a problem. However, if we try to use old methods to solve new problems, our approach might become insufficient and ineffective. This is where the benefits of bringing the fresh perspective of "Beginner's Mind" enters the equation in a positive way. Ideally, one wants to combine curiosity and non-biased judgment of a novice with the experience of a seasoned veteran. Together, these aspects can produce a powerful mind.
"A Japanese Zen master received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen. It was obvious to the master from the start of the conversation that the professor was not so much interested in learning about Zen as he was in impressing the master with his own opinions and knowledge. The master listened patiently and finally suggested they have some tea. The master poured his visitor's cup full and then kept on pouring. The professor watched the cup overflowing until he could no longer restrain himself. "The cup is overfilled, no more will go in."
'Like this cup', the master said, 'you are full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?'"
Bruce Lee
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