Thomas J. Watson: 'If you aren't playing well, the game isn't as much fun. When that happens I tell myself just to go out and play as I did when I was a kid.'

If you aren't playing well, the game isn't as much fun. When that happens I tell myself just to go out and play as I did when I was a kid.

In this quote by Thomas J. Watson, he stresses the importance of enjoying the game of life and finding joy in our pursuits. He asserts that when we are not playing well, the game loses its fun factor. In such moments, Watson advises himself to adopt the carefree and unburdened mindset he had as a child, and just go out and play to fully experience life's richness.Watson's quote resonates with many of us who have experienced periods where our engagement and enthusiasm wane due to various reasons, such as stress, pressure, or a loss of passion. It serves as a reminder to reconnect with the simplicity and unbounded curiosity we possessed as kids, enabling us to fully embrace life's challenges and pleasures.However, beyond its straightforward meaning lies a fascinating philosophical concept that enhances the significance of Watson's words: the idea of the "beginner's mind." Coined by Zen Buddhism, the beginner's mind refers to adopting an open and unbiased perspective, free from preconceived notions and the burden of expertise. It encourages us to approach life with a fresh, inquisitive outlook, just as we did as children.When we were young, we approached every situation as an invitation to explore and learn. We didn't worry about outcome, expectations, or judgment. We were fully immersed in the moment, engaging in activities out of pure enjoyment. As we grew older, we often became more focused on achieving desired results or meeting societal standards, neglecting the joy and spontaneity that once fueled our actions.By coupling Watson's quote with the concept of the beginner's mind, we find an even deeper understanding of the importance of embracing the childlike mindset. The beginner's mind encourages us to let go of our self-imposed limitations and rediscover the joy in the process itself, rather than fixating solely on the end goal. It invites us to approach challenges with a sense of wonder and curiosity, unburdened by the pressures of expertise or the fear of failure.Furthermore, the beginner's mind teaches us that every situation, no matter how familiar or mundane, holds the potential for discovery and growth. By approaching life with an open mind, we uncover new perspectives and possibilities that may have previously eluded us. This philosophy encourages us to continually learn, adapt, and evolve, fostering personal development and allowing us to stay engaged and enthused.While Watson's quote emphasizes the importance of reverting to a childlike state of playfulness in order to rejuvenate our engagement with life, the concept of the beginner's mind takes it a step further. It suggests that adopting this mindset is not merely a temporary fix, but a lifelong practice that facilitates ongoing growth, resilience, and a deep sense of fulfillment.So, the next time you find yourself disengaged or uninspired in life's pursuits, remember the wisdom of Thomas J. Watson. Reflect on the joy and enthusiasm you once held as a child, and take it as an opportunity to embrace the beginner's mind. Approach each aspect of life with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to let go of preconceived notions. In doing so, you will rediscover the fun and playfulness that can have a transformative impact on your journey.