By definition, practicing means doing something repeatedly, to develop skill, proficiency, or competence, in order to become “better” at it. It involves spending time, implicitly focused on a particular area of interest, to rise above the surface level and master something; then perhaps eventually using your knowledge, talent or skill to help or inspire others to strive for excellence and develop themselves in that area as well.

As a young kid, my aspiration to be a great guitar player taught me the importance of disciplining myself to sit and practice. Music touched me on such a deep level that I wanted to be able to share it with others, in my own way. I knew that if I ever wanted to play like the guitar heroes who’d influenced me, I’d need to first put in the time to master the fundamentals, study the relevant theories and learn whatever I could from other players, in order to develop my own style, using the skills and knowledge I’d acquired. It was difficult at first, but I conditioned myself to make it a habit.

In that manner of thinking however, what does it mean to practice buddhism and what exactly, are we trying to become better at? Is there some “expert level” to strive for? (and, who’s judging, anyway?) Why should anyone even begin practicing in the first place? Does it contribute any value to others, or is it merely a self-indulgent pursuit for enlightenment? More importantly, if someone decides they want to practice buddhism, how does one actually do it? (hint: there’s no rulebook or blueprint!)

In this episode, I reflect on my own experiences as a musician and as a buddhist, to answer those questions and explain the similarities as well as the differences between practicing music and walking the Eightfold Path - and why practicing anything is a lifelong pursuit!

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