Reevaluating Effort: Embracing Spontaneity Over Striving
In today’s relentlessly competitive society, we often hear the mantra “try your best.” However, Edward Slingerland’s book, Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity, challenges this modern ethos with ancient wisdom, suggesting that perhaps we should “stop trying” instead.
The Paradox of Effort and Spontaneity
Slingerland, a Professor of Asian Studies at the University of British Columbia, merges the ancient Eastern philosophy with modern cognitive science to argue that true success comes from a state of “wu-wei” or effortless action. This concept, drawn from Daoism and the teachings of Laozi, proposes that the best outcomes arise when we engage in activities naturally and spontaneously — without forced effort.
This notion was reinforced unexpectedly when I stumbled upon Slingerland’s book while preparing for a lengthy train journey. Without trying too hard to select a book, I ended up with one that profoundly resonated with me. It articulated a belief I’ve long held: true mastery and fulfillment come from engaging with the world in a more relaxed, intuitive manner.
The Science Behind “Not Trying”
Slingerland supports his arguments with modern psychology and behavioral economics, demonstrating how striving too hard can lead to suboptimal outcomes. For instance, athletes often perform at their peak when they are “in the zone” — a mental state of deep focus and enjoyment untouched by overt effort or pressure. However, when reminded to “keep up the good work,” this self-awareness can disrupt their natural flow, leading to errors or what is commonly referred to as “choking.”
The Cultural Implications of Non-Striving
The culture of relentless striving encourages comparisons and relentless competition. However, focusing solely on outcomes can divert attention from the task at hand, potentially leading to failure. Slingerland’s insights suggest that by reducing our emphasis on effort, we might enhance our effectiveness and satisfaction in various endeavors.
Personal Reflections and Broader Observations
The book’s philosophy mirrors the life lessons evident in the stories of individuals like Charles Bukowski, whose tombstone famously bears the inscription “Don’t Try.” Bukowski’s success, paradoxically, stemmed not from a relentless pursuit of achievement but from his candid acceptance and portrayal of his flaws and failures. This aligns with the book’s theme that sometimes, not striving is the path to fulfillment.
Conclusion: The Value of Effortless Action
“Trying Not to Try” doesn’t advocate for laziness or indifference. Instead, it invites us to reconsider our relationship with effort and outcomes. It suggests that by embracing spontaneity and focusing less on controlled outcomes, we might achieve not only greater personal fulfillment but also a more genuine form of success.
As we move forward, embracing the wisdom of non-effort and spontaneous action could lead to more innovative, joyful, and fulfilling ways of living, challenging the conventional narrative that equates success with ceaseless striving and competition.
