First Happiness Soup Blog

I was going to start my Happiness Soup blog with the launch of my book, which is aptly named Happiness Soup - but sometimes you just can’t wait.

Garr Reynolds of “Presentation Zen" wrote in his blog today about Zen, jazz and creativity (Zen, jazz, & creativity: Lessons from the art of jazz (part III).

Towards the end of the article, and this is why I had to share this with you now – it is an ingredient list for a Happiness Soup.

Garr says:
Here's a list of a few lessons that both jazz and Zen practice have taught me over the years. These lessons, all seemingly commonsensical, can be applied to presentation or to any creative endeavour.

· In structure there is freedom and spontaneity.
· Restraints and limitations can be great liberators.
· Don't ever force it; be ever natural.
· Good intentions are key. Sincerity is king, and yet...
· It's not about you.
· Listen more than speak.
· Speak only when you have something to say, and then in the most economic way possible.
· Your approach can be direct and subtle at the same time.
· Fear is natural (and human), but work through it and past it. Don't let fear hold you back.
· Mistakes are part of it (do not worrying about them).
· Embrace the power of now, this moment.
· Technique matters, but it's not the most important element.
· Make no pretenses; put up no facades.
· Laugh, smile if you feel like it — why not?
· Share yourself with others; make a contribution.
· Simplicity is supremely beautiful, yet difficult to obtain.
· Emptiness and silence are powerful elements of expression.
· Remove the clutter, strive for absolute clarity.
· If you think you have mastered it, you've have already begun your descent.
· Always be learning. Always be learning. Always be learning.
· Curiosity is your greatest gift, nurture it (in yourself and in others)