The way I learn

I wouldn’t call myself an initiator in the first place. Especially, when I encounter something new, my instinct isn't to charge in and forge my path. Instead, I prefer to immerse myself in the established ways, diligently absorbing the rules and practices until I feel comfortable enough to say, "Okay, I get it. I can navigate this space with my own spin."

Recently I discovered one Japanese concept from my favorite teacher Chris Do, and I found

myself really resonating with that concept. I am also fucking lover when it comes to Japanese wisdom. They are so interesting.

Japanese concept called Shu-Ha-Ri represents the stages of learning. It is a concept from a Martial Art actually but it can be applied to many aspects of life he says:

1. Shu- translates as “ Follow the rules”.

To obey and learn the fundamentals.

In this stage, you follow the instructions without changing them or amplifying something own. They will practice until the skill becomes muscle memory.

This stage is about building a solid foundation. It's about internalizing the fundamentals, honing basic skills, and developing a deep understanding of the underlying principles. It's about learning the language, mastering the tools, and absorbing the established ways of doing things.

2. Ha -the stage is “ Break Free”.

To break away or detach from tradition.

Once you have mastered the fundamentals, you are given room to question, experiment, and find deeper meaning in what you do.

We test the boundaries of what we've learned, pushing the limits and exploring new possibilities.

This stage is about personal expression and innovation. It's about taking the tools and techniques we've acquired and applying them in our own unique way. It's about adding our own flavor to the mix, breaking free from rigid rules, and forging our own path.

3. Ri, which translates to "transcendence."

To transcend.

The student has now mastered the art to such a degree that you are no longer bound by rules and principles. This is the stage where you find your own style or create a new way of doing things.

We reach a state of mastery where our skills become effortless and intuitive, where we embody the essence of the discipline without being confined by its form.

Conclusion

The Shu-Ha-Ri journey is a beautiful metaphor for learning, reminding us that true mastery is not about blindly following the rules, nor is it about simply breaking them. It's about finding the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, between respect and rebellion. It's about building a solid foundation, exploring new possibilities, and ultimately, transcending the form to create something truly unique and meaningful.

I hope, it can be useful and inspiring for you. Or maybe this concept can help you to establish your own approach in what you are doing and in any of your new endeavors.

Happy New Year!

P.S.Ayrie