Shoshin: The Beginner's Mind

"In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's mind there are few."
— Shunryu Suzuki, Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind

Do you remember the wonder of learning something for the very first time?

The Beginner's Mind (Shoshin) is that state of open, eager, and unbiased curiosity—free from the assumptions, judgments, and expertise that can narrow our vision over time. In our pursuit of mastery, we often lose the very quality that makes learning magical.

This Curious Souls Cafe is an invitation to rediscover that state. We'll explore how to gently set aside our inner "expert" to make room for fresh questions, unexpected connections, and genuine awe. This isn't about ignoring experience, but about learning to see with new eyes again:

• How can a beginner's mindset transform a routine task?
• How can "not knowing" improve our conversations?
• How can curiosity be a guide through uncertainty?

In addition, we'll also explore how this mindset differs from the uninformed overconfidence described by the Dunning-Kruger effect, focusing instead on the humble, active curiosity that fuels real growth.

Join us to celebrate the courage and joy of being a perpetual beginner.

Inviting all who are...

🌱 Feeling stuck in familiar patterns and seeking a fresh perspective.
🎨 Longing to reconnect with the pure joy of learning, just for its own sake.
🧠 Curious about how to quiet the inner critic or the "expert" voice that says, "I already know."
🤔 Navigating a life transition or new challenge and wanting to approach it with openness.
✨ Interested in how humility and curiosity can lead to deeper wisdom than certainty ever could.

📅 Agenda / What You'll Experience

💬 Icebreaker Conversation Cards (Round 1)

We will use virtual question cards. Here are some sample questions.

• What's something simple you learned or noticed recently that gave you a genuine sense of wonder or "beginner's mind"?
• Describe a time when admitting "I don't know" led to a better outcome or a more interesting conversation.
• What is a subject, skill, or activity you once felt excited about that now feels routine or burdensome? What changed?
• The Dunning-Kruger effect suggests we need knowledge to see our own ignorance. How does this create a paradox for cultivating a "beginner's mind"?

From there, we’ll embark on a respectful, engaging, and meaningful conversation, celebrating the diversity of perspectives and ideas within the group.

Note: This session may involve virtual question cards accessed via a link or QR code. If you do not have a device (phone/tablet) to access these, please ask a facilitator for assistance; we have spare units available.

💬 Spontaneous Reflective Question (Optional Round)

After warming up, our diverse group of friends and strangers will come together in a circle to exchange ideas on an intriguing topic chosen spontaneously. We may either continue with questions from the round one, or write our own questions.

Each participant is encouraged to contribute by sharing a unique question. You’re welcome to bring a question that’s been on your mind, or you can draw inspiration from the conversation cards provided. Once all the questions are collected, the group will collaboratively select one to kick off the discussion.

💬 Final Thoughts and Feedback

Where time allows, in the final 10 minutes of the event, we’ll take a moment to reflect on the key insights, memorable moments, and takeaways from our discussions. This is a chance to distill the shared wisdom and leave with a deeper understanding of the topics we’ve explored together.

After the event officially concludes, the group may choose to extend the session, depending on the group’s interest. Of course, you’re welcome to leave at any time that feels right for you.

An anonymized summary will be shared for sessions where key insights are identified. After the meeting, our facilitators and participants may reflect on the discussion and contribute to a summary or collaborative workbook based on their notes and observations. Additionally, questions may be revisited in future sessions in an anonymized manner. To explore what our events are like, check out our official website at https://curioussouls.cafe

📍 Location

City: Hong Kong
Address: Empire Centre, 68 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East

Inside the shopping mall of Empire Centre, there is a large open area dedicated to a café. We will sit at a round table or sofa inside (near a Hang Seng ATM or 7-Eleven store). Please look for the big words "Curious Souls Café" on our table.

If you take the MTR, the nearest station and exit will be East Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit P1). From there, you can walk to Empire Centre, which is just a few minutes away.

Google Maps link: maps.app.goo.gl/51Jr8qxY4q5YLQ6q7

🈚 Free of Charge

While there is no charge to attend, we kindly encourage you to support the venue by purchasing a drink and/or any items from their menu.

Note: This event is not affiliated with the restaurant, or any third-party names mentioned.

✨ What is Curious Souls Café?

Welcome to Curious Souls Café! 👋 Designed to nurture healthy curiosity and foster connections, this is a warm and friendly space for meaningful conversations. 😊 We invite you to join us for an experience filled with thought-provoking dialogue, meaningful connections, and personal growth.

We look forward to meeting you at one of our events in the future!