Challenges to our expertise can be our biggest opportunities.
If you haven’t already, read the intro & summary which explain why I wrote these thoughts down in the first place.
There is a principle in Zen Buddhism which reminds us to approach all things with the openness and eagerness of a beginner - and without the preconceptions of an expert. Much like the act of smiling increases serotonin, approaching tasks with the fascination and attention of a beginner may make you observe more closely and feel earnestly more enthusiastic about the work ahead.
This principle is even more true because the eCommerce industry is constantly growing and shifting, our tools and technologies are changing, and once-trusted methods are being supplanted with newer, faster, smarter solutions. In this environment, an “expert” at any single solution is quickly left behind!
I also find that this concept is a perfect antidote to imposters syndrome. The Wild West nature of our industry thrusts us into all sorts of situations where we quickly find ourselves out of our depth. Suddenly even the most experienced amongst us are no longer the experts, but with a Beginners Mind we can find true excitement in any unfamiliar territory.