I think this has been discusses already…probably multiple times…and probably I have already asked the same question using different words. But here we are. It seems to me that deep down doing zazen and living a “good” everyday life is not that different. Sure we have to think more and judge different situations when we are not on the mat, but the way to approach a practical problem “the zen way” is not that different than sitting on a mat focusing on letting your thoughts go. Let me give you a more concrete example of what I am trying to say, because I feel that I am getting lost in words already (damn words J ). I have been sitting diligently for quite awhile now and I noticed that with a calmer mind my decision process becomes more automatic. When I have to make a decision at work I do not ruminate as much into cyclical thoughts but I just make a decision, which is quite spontaneous yet not thoughtless. However, I noticed that I still get caught on the “oh, I should have done this” or “well, I should have said that” process (well, we probably all are). These “me-driven” thoughts are quite tempting (especially because sometimes they lead to a good decision), but the more I sit the more I think they are all a waste of time. I would love to know what you all think and if you go through the same type of mental questioning that is still bugging me from time to time. Time to go home….