Chapter 1: The Essence of Amateurism

Life's most straightforward truths can often be the hardest to grasp.

#1 Amateurs are Passionate

At some point, we’ve all experienced a profound love for someone or something. This feeling drives us to go to great lengths, sometimes even engaging in seemingly foolish actions to express our affection. The term "Amateur" derives from the French word for "lover," emphasizing that these individuals pursue their passions out of love rather than the pursuit of fame, wealth, or career advancement.

To tap into your inner amateur, prioritize your passions over external rewards. Embrace risks, experiment freely, and trust your instincts. You don’t need to be a seasoned expert to follow your heart; often, a beginner's perspective can lead to significant breakthroughs. As Zen monk Shunryu Suzuki wisely noted, "In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities. In the expert’s mind, there are few."

#2 Amateurs Embrace Public Failure

Fear of failure often holds us back from pursuing our dreams. Many people go to great lengths to avoid failing, sometimes at the cost of their true desires. To break free from this mindset, think about how you might act silly just to elicit a laugh from a child. The joy of that laughter can make you forget about the opinions of onlookers.

This liberation from judgment can be immensely freeing, and it often springs from unconditional love. When you pursue your passions with this kind of love, you can conquer your fears, including the fear of public failure. Remember, mistakes and mishaps are essential stepping stones to success. As Clay Shirky aptly put it, "The stupidest possible creative act is still a creative act."

In the video "Understand these 4 key concepts for a happier life," Arthur Brooks explores how embracing love and passion can enhance your happiness and fulfillment.

#3 Amateurs are Lifelong Learners

A notable difference between amateurs and experts lies in their approach to learning. Amateurs are eager to explore and grow, while experts may fall into the trap of thinking they know everything. Charlie Chaplin famously stated, "That’s all any of us are: amateurs. We don’t live long enough to be anything else."

Cultivating a learner's mindset allows you to remain open to new experiences and insights. Additionally, sharing your learning journey with others can create connections and foster communal growth. CS Lewis remarked, "The fellow-pupil can help more than the master because he knows less."

#4 Amateurs Share Their Ideas

Amateurs are often deeply enamored with their ideas and are eager to bring them to life. This passion fuels their creativity and innovation, allowing them to make the most of the resources at hand.

For example, when I was ten, I created a machine to help me thread my "Charkhi," a device used for winding thread for kite flying. With limited tools,