Mindfulness and Multiple Intelligences: 8 Ways to Pay Attention
How are you smart? Let me count the ways. Harvard professor
Howard Gardner was the first to describe the concept of Multiple
Intelligences. According to this widely-accepted theory, we are
each born with a certain amount of intelligence in each of eight
areas, and we have the potential to harness or develop each of
these throughout our lives.
In 1983, Gardner first described seven intelligences:
linguistic, logical/mathematical, spatial, musical,
bodily/kinesthetic, interpersonal and intrapersonal. He later
added an eighth: naturalistic.
Nothing too earth-shaking about this. We all know gifted writers
(using words), engineers (using numbers), artists (manipulating
spaces), musicians (inspired by sound), athletes (using physical
skills), counselors (understanding others), and biologists
(passionate about nature). But here's the one I find most
interesting: intrapersonal. According to Gardner, someone with
great intrapersonal intelligence enjoys spending time alone,
likes being still in their own space, is especially adept at
understanding themselves, and is inspired by contemplation.
Now, remember that each of us has at least a little of all eight
kinds of intelligence, with one or two areas being the most
dominant. Although we can increase our abilities in all areas,
we are naturally attracted to certain activities. A person with
dominant or developed intrapersonal intelligence is likely to be
innately interested in silent contemplation and naturally drawn
to meditation.
So....what about everybody else? If meditation comes easily to
only a small percentage of the population, why is it that all
approaches to mindfulness require sitting still and focusing
inward?
If we use Multiple Intelligences theory as a way to recognize
our different learning styles and natural tendencies, we see
that there must be a number of ways to develop mindfulness
without relying solely upon meditation.
Teachers around the globe are employing Multiple Intelligences
theory in the classroom in order to prepare lessons that appeal
to the learning styles of all types of students. The ultimate
goal of learning specific material is the same no matter what,
but this enlightened approach to teaching is inclusive and
exhilarating.
If meditation fits only ONE of the eight intelligences
(intrapersonal) we are missing out on seven other areas in which
we can learn--and teach-- mindfulness! Being attached to a
single approach is decidedly limiting and downright archaic.
If you find it difficult to get motivated to meditate, consider
this: perhaps your particular combination of multiple
intelligences would benefit from a different approach to
mindfulness.
In other words, it's not you--it's the teacher! Or, more
precisely, the teachings.
If meditation isn't working for you, take heart. There are seven
other areas in which mindfulness training can inform, inspire
and delight you.
That's what counts.