I often emphasize this principle to my disciples: “You must empty your cup to taste my tea.” Just today, I stumbled upon a Shaolin monk discussing the same concept on TikTok. After reading the comments, it was clear that many are perplexed by the metaphor. They ponder, “How do we actually empty our cup?” Particularly in practices like martial arts or Taoist magic, which tap into our accumulated knowledge and experiences, how can we “empty” our minds? You can’t erase memories or experiences, after all. In this article, I’ll guide you through the real meaning of emptying your cup, and if you’re my disciple, adhering to this wisdom will undoubtedly pave the way for your long-term success.

In essence, to empty your cup means to set aside your prior knowledge and experiences when you’re learning from a master. Approach your training as if you’re a newborn—innocent, receptive, and unburdened by preconceptions. Don’t adopt a “know-it-all” attitude; don’t bring your past into the present. Simply put, don’t mention it, don’t dwell on it, and most crucially, don’t let it influence your current learning.

For instance, let’s say you’ve spent 20 years mastering karate and now you wish to delve into Chinese kung fu under my tutelage. While it’s acceptable to mention your karate background briefly, refrain from continuously bringing it up. I only need to hear about it once. Going forward, don’t boast about your karate years, or worse, exhibit your karate moves in a kung fu class. Realign your mindset as a beginner and earnestly follow your new master’s guidance. Your adherence to the master’s words is key, rather than stubbornly clinging to what you think you know.

I have also taught my disciples effective time management by adhering to specific schedules. Though my teaching methods are consistent, individual results vary based on how fully one can empty their cup. Those who sincerely follow my instructions tend to see immediate positive changes, while those who think they already “know better” frequently fail to realize the full benefits. It’s not because they lack intelligence; rather, they bring too much of their past into the learning process, creating unnecessary obstacles.

This year, a self-proclaimed Taoist “master” sought to learn from me. His downfall was swift and eye-opening for my other disciples. Though he was initially excited by the new knowledge he encountered, his ego got in the way. He started to feel overwhelmed and began resisting the learning process, unable to shed his previously established beliefs and practices. In his arrogance, he withdrew before the essence of the teachings could be imparted. It was a classic case of ego sabotaging the path to wisdom.

Remember, it’s detrimental to bring your past baggage into your current learning journey. While it’s acceptable to briefly acknowledge your background, your primary focus should be on the teachings at hand. As long as you remain receptive and humble, I will guide you down the path I have already traversed. Many enter this journey with preconceived notions, thinking, “This won’t work for me,” or “I learn better another way.” But how can you be so sure if you’ve never tried my methods? The same teaching can yield different outcomes when imparted by different masters.

If you’re eager to embark on this transformative path, consider getting ordained through our website to learn Taoism and Taoist magic from the comfort of your home. Alternatively, you can begin by reading “My First Taoism Book” and “36 Pearls of Wisdom“—you won’t regret it.