Fool's Gold: Lessons The Fool Has Taught Me

Cosmic Tarot Deck

I first called this article, "Lessons fools have taught me" but that sounded like I was going to write about ex-boyfriends and bad teachers. What I really want to talk about is the wisdom of The Fool, the first card of the tarot.

1. Have beginner's mind.

Over time we fill up with knowledge, habits and experience, and generally, that serves us well. But sometimes, being that full gets in the way of fresh thinking and creative possibilities. The gift of letting go of knowing is the opportunity to learn.

2. Leap.

Traditionally, The Fool is shown to be teetering on the edge, just about to go over a cliff. Whenever we step into a new adventure, it's a risk. It's natural to be nervous. But think how many things were once risky that are now second nature, like standing, for example! Courage and confidence are created one leap at a time.

3. Don't pay too much attention to your fears.

See the little dog with The Fool? Often the dog is shown nipping at his heels or biting the seat of his pants to stop him from going over. Our fears do this to us all the time: sometimes protecting us, but sometimes holding us back. Take the time to listen to your fears, do what you can to support your safety and then get on with the adventure!

4. Play.

Even on the cliff, this Fool is taking time to dance. The most precious moment you have is now. Make room for some lightness and joy, maybe even some silliness - you may just find it delicious!

5. Don't worry about being a 0.

Our real human need to be respected and valued can sometimes transmute into a drive for and dependency on status. Keeping up with appearances and worrying what others think of us is exhausting! The Fool reminds us to drop out of that game and simply be. Wherever you are, it's just the right place on your journey.

What foolishness will you get up to this month?

This post is an excerpt from News from Jamie Ridler Studios. Subscribe by adding your name and email to the form below and you'll receive monthly inspiration plus information about my newest offerings. I'd love to stay connected with you.

Creative Stirrings

This post is an excerpt from News from Jamie Ridler Studios. Subscribe by adding your name and email to the form in the upper right-hand of this blog and you'll receive monthly inspiration plus information about my newest offerings. I'd love to stay connected with you.

Creative Stirrings

Though winter still has a firm grip on Toronto, spring’s energy is percolating. Many of you have shared with me that you are ready to make a change in your life or in the world, that you’re longing for more time with your art or with like-minded people, that you want to start creating your life and your work from what’s stirring in your heart.

Yes!

And so how do you make a start, especially when something is new, big and maybe scary too?

1. Say it out loud

Magic happens when you share what you’re dreaming of. Here's a great example from The Bigger Game leadership training I attended last month. The leader expressed her longing for more joy on the subway. It turned out one of the participants owned subway-level video terminals and in less than 3 minutes they were strategizing on how to use that medium to bring smiles to commuters!

2. Be brave.

Stepping into your dreams is courageous. Start flexing your bravery muscles. Take the lead from my dear friend Jessie Marianiello’s Be Brave Project. Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s statement “Do one thing every day that scares you,” Jessie encourages people to spend one month doing just that. Make March your month!

3. Be open.

Whatever you’re creating, whether it’s dinner, a book or a business, remember that it’s a living project. Every step of the way you will receive feedback and information. Keep your eyes and heart open for learning and opportunities that might just make your project even better than you’d imagined.

4. Take Care of You

As you expend your creative energy, remember to take time to refill your well. Go for walks. Drink lots of water. Have a nap. Take in a movie. Develop your own set of restoration techniques and make sure you apply them – liberally.

5. Celebrate Your Progress

Acknowledge yourself for showing up and taking a step. So often discouraged clients come to me and say, “Jamie, I didn’t make any progress this week.” Then as they get into the details, they realize in fact that isn't true! Noticing and celebrating each step along the way keeps our energy up and reminds us what we’re capable of.

What's stirring for you?