BY MARTIN LENCLOS
Design for Nothing
Using the Power of Positive Miscreation: A Practice in Nondual Spirituality and Personal Transformation through Creative Intention
What is Design for Nothing?
This approach reflects my journey through Eastern philosophies such as Zen Buddhism, Advaita Vedanta, and Taoism, as well as A Course in Miracles and contemporary studies on consciousness, whose theories converge on the understanding that all humans, all things, and the universe itself share the same conscious awareness, the same One Mind, and revealing that the ego and the perceived separateness of the world are illusions.
Drawing from decades of experience in design strategy and the creative arts, Design for Nothing helps you find peace, freedom, and creativity through mind design, discerning inner truth from visual falsehood, and the mental process of creative elimination that ensues. This philosophical and holistic approach provides tools to access oneness, wisdom, and inspiration that have always been accessible but were subconsciously hidden.
Design for Nothing offers the opportunity to learn basic concepts fundamental to understanding the nature of the mind, its levels, and how to use them psychologically, visually, and practically. This, in turn, will help you advance in your spiritual journey and find your existential flow. The purpose of this course is to rebuild your vision of self (or no-self), take measure of the benefits of making space for emptiness, and experience the ancient peace you carry in your heart.
As a result of practicing Design for Nothing, you enhance your emotional resilience in various aspects of life, especially when you allow complete wholeness and loving awareness into your vision during times of stress, self-judgment, anxiety, and fear, whether these challenges are external or internal. The world, your body, and other bodies very much appear as separate entities. The five senses and the looming presence of death make any nondual practice challenging for the untrained mind. This can be considered social conditioning, and it is so ingrained that it calls for an aspect of the Design for Nothing practice called positive miscreation.
Positive miscreation involves the intentional and creative repurposing of your reality by the One Mind. It is a practice that helps transcend ego-driven illusions and aligns your actions—mental, verbal, or physical—with your true nature. By systematically not making real perceptions of separation, you create mental space to channel your natural creative force, fostering unity, spiritual growth, and healing. This healing extends not only to yourself but also to others, as the awakening of the One Mind strengthens the interconnected consciousness of all beings, creating a ripple effect of transformation and growth.
Why "Design" for "Nothing"?
Design for Nothing integrates teachings from various nondual traditions to help foster a state of unified consciousness, transcend ego illusions, and cultivate inner peace. It invites you, regardless of your spiritual journey, to design a mind space strongly founded in which the ego world cannot intrude, let go of all things you think you want, and live life’s experience with nothing but the boundless potential of your true self.
Expanding the Concept of "Design"
The concept of "Design" in Design for Nothing stems from purposeful intention to produce a creative thought that serves a goal. This approach reminds us that we already possess the tools to shift our perceptions and behaviors toward freedom of the mind—the only fundamental freedom that everyone in the world shares.
Design, by nature, is for everyone—both creative minds and those who don’t consider themselves creative. The intention to design for a better state of mind fulfills the basic need to foster a deeper connection with the fundamental reality of oneness.
The Foundation Behind "Nothing"
The sages of nondualism, such as Zhuangzi and Ramana Maharshi, recognize that our essence is not merely 'some-thing' in this world but embodies 'no-thing'—a concept that transcends material existence.
Zazen, the meditative discipline in Zen Buddhism, is often described as being 'good for nothing,' urging practitioners to sit in stillness without worldly desires. Yet, it's through this 'nothingness' that presence and awareness are cultivated.
Similarly, to inspire this level of consciousness, Design for Nothing embraces the paradox of finding value in 'nothing.' It aligns with Wuji in Taoism, the ultimate nothingness or emptiness from which everything emanates.
“Neti neti” (not this, not that) in Advaita Vedanta is the process of elimination of the Non-Self where practitioners start by negating all physical and mental attributes—body, mind, thoughts, emotions, and experiences—as not being the true Self. It sees naming as limitation. What is named tends to seem meaningful leading us to mistakenly identify with them.
Overview
The Design for Nothing approach involves three steps: understanding the oneness aspect of your true nature (learn), creating mental space for conscious awareness to take charge over the ego and personal identity shaped by social conditioning (do), and helping you maintain the connection to your inner self at will in the present moment after that (sustain).
As I delved into understanding the deeper essence of our being through nondual philosophies such as Advaita Vedanta, Taoism, and A Course in Miracles, I was deeply impressed by the insights these philosophies offer. Through their meditative and contemplative methods of elimination, such as Neti Neti—where one denies all that is not the true Self to realize pure consciousness—I observed transformative benefits in every aspect of my life. It’s time to share these insights.
By integrating philosophical principles with the strategic design processes I have developed over the years as an artist and design professional, I created Design for Nothing. This method fosters a renewed understanding of creation and a unified inspiration in all creative endeavors. With time, it also helps dissolve the shell formed by the ego and societal conditioning, which you thought was your identity. Design for Nothing even promotes feelings of unity in all kinds of relationships, true compassion for your brother, and a sense of guiltlessness for your shortcomings. If this approach helps you anchor these feelings in your mind, whether at home, work, or in social settings, I will have succeeded.
In this world, it is easy to get caught up in an identity built around our special talents, the 'important' roles we play, and the financial goals that keep us focused on the future rather than the present, often leaving us feeling lacking and unsettled. We feel a loss of purpose or meaning in our jobs, even when working for a big cause. We seek release in fleeting pleasures, material illusions, and special relationships. Using our original talents for our Own sake—referring to the true nature or the One Mind—is a rare practice. The work we do for profit, constantly adapting to the needs of our clients or the rules of an industry, makes us feel trapped and disconnected from our true selves.
Design for Nothing aims to shift this perspective, helping us find peace and a true sense of freedom by focusing on what truly matters: reawakening to our true nature, being fully present—the only time there is—by intention, and benefiting from the love found in oneness. Incorporating meditation and spiritual teachings has provided me with a strong foundation for mental wellness and happiness. Design for Nothing seeks to make these benefits accessible, even for those new to spiritual exploration, and it follows a three-step process that we are all familiar with: learn, do, and sustain.
Design for Nothing: A Decision To Make
In the scientific realm, inspired by quantum field theory and recent studies on the universality of consciousness, more and more scientists, biologists, and physicists are embracing the idea of the interconnectedness of all things. These theories link ancient nondual philosophies, confirming the sages' predictions. Deep down, Design for Nothing is about making a powerful decision: to take these findings seriously, embrace them profoundly, and observe whether adapting makes a real difference. It involves looking for ways to apply the meanings behind what we then consider as truth to our daily lives. This decision has been beneficial to me—not just as an artist and designer—bringing me to a renewed understanding of what reality is, as I made space every day for a shift in perception, and choose the concept of union in oneness over the separation of the ego.
Design for Nothing is about making the decision to design for yourself the internal mind space or canvas needed to surrender to unity itself, to abide in this fundamental reality, and rest in what is. It is an invitation to spiritual seekers, thoughtful creators, and curious minds to align their lives and works with this newly found truth. From where I stand, I have observed how this approach leads to a more harmonious and enlightened existence. It’s up to you to create the space, in mind and in time, that allows the untouchable, indivisible true nature of existence to take charge of the unimportant and guide you on what is important. While the following steps provide the tools for presence, alignment, and transformation, you ultimately need do “nothing” since you were already That.
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Design for Nothing Steps:
Toward Positive Miscreation
This approach involves three steps: understanding the oneness aspect of your true nature (learn), creating mental space for conscious awareness to take charge over the ego and personal identity shaped by social conditioning (do), and helping you maintain the connection to your inner self at will in the present moment thereafter (sustain).
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Begin by opening up to the idea of Oneness, a fundamental concept that transcends the individual experiences and identities shaped by our world. Recognize that there is nothing like this unity in the material world; it is a profound connection that goes beyond physical boundaries. Picture what true unity entails: a harmonious existence where all perceived separations dissolve. See beyond individual identities, physical appearances, and the veil created by social conditioning to recognize the unified self in everyone. Embrace the understanding that, without duality, love becomes the essence of this union of all beings as One. This fosters a peaceful vision of yourself, deepens your connection to your true nature, and cultivates compassion in line with the immensity of the truth behind the interconnectedness of all existence.
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For this experience, I recommend visual thinkers and creative minds practice with eyes open whenever possible, whether at home, at work, with yourself, or with others. Allow your imagination to bring about the reality of a spacious, boundless mind space in your vision. Picture this space above and around your forehead as light or spaciousness. Design this space as your own—it is a light-filled mind space, free from any external influence. Ensure it is devoid of odor, color, or sensory input, representing a place where no memories, worries, grievances, or limitations can enter. Keep your attention focused on the spaciousness, presence, and stillness of this mind space. This intentional design serves as a sanctuary for your mind, a place where you can always return to experience peace, clarity, and the unity of your true nature. Make a conscious decision to let go of all expectations, and with trust in the process, let the One Mind of the universe enter.
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Once you have embraced the essence of Oneness, recognizing it as the core of your being, and understood that to remain in oneness, your nature must embody 'no-thing'—not your body, not your constructed identity—and designed a mind space receptacle for the One Mind, you have already reconnected with your true self. Commit to daily practices that foster presence and stillness by dedicating 5 minutes each morning and night to pure tranquility, inviting universal consciousness into the maximum mind space you can design. Throughout the day, review and visualize that space at regular intervals, ensuring it remains free from worldly desires and ego-driven motives. At work, cultivate a generous and selfless understanding of external goals while frequently realigning with the consciousness that connects all things. In your relationships, expand the space you have designed to include those around you, looking through them, releasing judgments, and transcending roles to connect with the same light of consciousness you both share. By will and by design, in that state of emptiness you maintain, recognize that when you embody true unity, there is no separation, and therefore, no possibility of attack. By integrating these steps, your acceptance of the truth about yourself brings inner peace in all your endeavors.
As you embark on this journey...
Abide by your innate spiritual nature, and you’ll support the collective realization of interconnectedness weaving through us all.
For Nothing, in Depth.
The Design for Nothing method offers a unique interplay between design and spirituality. This method is primarily a tool for spiritual exploration, inviting individuals to question their perceived reality and delve into their inner consciousness. It especially resonates with those who have undergone various stages of personal growth and introspection and are looking to significantly expand further their spiritual practice into everyday tasks, interactions, and personal endeavors.
This spiritual practice serves dual objectives: On one hand, it aids practitioners in tapping into our shared universal creative intelligence. On the other, it offers designers a fresh realm of possibilities to explore. While understanding ancient Eastern philosophies like Zen Buddhism, Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, or A Course in Miracles can augment the non-dualistic experiences facilitated by Design for Nothing, such knowledge isn't mandatory. However, grasping the interconnectedness of all entities and acknowledging the inner self as the fountain of truth and joy is a plus. Without accepting these principles, one might not unlock the method's full potential.
Design for Nothing underscores the idea that the individual self is inseparably interwoven with the One Mind or Oneness. The method proves invaluable for those who resonate with this philosophy, placing spiritual evolution above worldly pursuits. It fortifies your spiritual journey and enhances your earthly existence by sharpening your discernment of what is false, thus promoting overall well-being. Fundamentally, Design for Nothing is a conduit for spiritual expansion, crafted especially for those intent on probing deeper realms of their consciousness. Through this recognition, one can discover profound contentment and relief from various forms of suffering.
The Essence of Nondual Reality.
Nondual reality reveals that the world we perceive through our senses is an illusion created by the mind's conditioning. This perspective, rooted in ancient philosophies like Advaita Vedanta and texts such as the "Yoga Vasistha," challenges the notion of separateness that dominates our everyday experience. Instead, it presents a vision of an unchanging, everlasting awareness—an ever-present One Mind—that underlies all existence.
In nondual reality, the distinctions we make between self and other, subject and object, are seen as errors of perception. Our true nature is not fragmented but unified, embodying an indivisible consciousness that transcends time and space. By practicing mind training, meditation, and self-inquiry, we can begin to see beyond the illusions of separation and reconnect with this fundamental oneness.
This realization is transformative. It shifts our understanding from a life of perceived separations and transient experiences to one of profound unity and peace. In this state, the mind's creations—thoughts, emotions, and sensory perceptions—are recognized as temporary and without power over our true essence. Embracing nondual reality leads to a deep sense of inner tranquility and a clearer perception of our interconnectedness with all that is.
Martin Lenclos wrote an article on nondual reality delving deeper into these concepts.
Read the blog post →
Reality is Comparable to a Virtual Reality Game
Reality can be likened to a virtual reality game, where the world we experience is a sophisticated illusion crafted by the mind. In this game, we navigate through a series of events and perceptions that seem real but are, in fact, projections of our conditioned consciousness. Just as a virtual reality headset immerses us in an artificial environment, our senses and thoughts create the illusion of a separate, fragmented world.
In this virtual game, the distinctions we make between self and other, subject and object, are akin to the characters and obstacles we encounter in a game. These distinctions are not real but are errors of perception, masking the underlying unity of all existence. Our true nature transcends these illusions, embodying an unchanging, everlasting awareness that connects everything in an indivisible consciousness.
According to nondual teachings from the East, such as Advaita Vedanta, and ACIM, the perceived duality and separation are illusions. Our true essence is an indivisible consciousness, unified with the ultimate reality. Through practices like meditation, self-inquiry, and mind training, we can see beyond these illusions and reconnect with the fundamental oneness of our true nature.
Understanding reality as a virtual game is transformative. It shifts our perspective from one of separation and conflict to one of unity and peace. In this awakened state, we see the interconnectedness of all things and experience a deep sense of inner tranquility. By embracing this perspective, we can navigate the virtual game of life with a newfound awareness of our true, undivided nature.
Embrace your spiritual nature.
Engaging with Design for Nothing three steps allows the universe to unveil its inherent nature within us and awaken our creative power. This method doesn't promise tangible worldly successes or add glittering lines to your professional résumé. It offers transcendental rewards that go beyond material gains and societal acclaim. Embrace this practice, grounding all decisions in the present moment, and you'll unearth personal satisfaction and a rejuvenated sense of life's purpose.
Nondualistic teachings across various traditions, espoused by mystics and sages, consistently champion the inward journey, underscoring the transformative might of unwavering commitment. In Daoism, such commitment revolves around living in synchronicity with the universe's spontaneous rhythms, thereby tapping into an intuitive stream of present-moment guidance. Zen Buddhism stresses that true contentment stems from mindfulness, rather than the relentless pursuit of external milestones. Advaita Vedanta exhorts a fervent quest for truth, where an analytical process helps peel away layers of misidentification with the transient world, leading to the realization that we are, in essence, what we've always sought, bestowing unparalleled serenity, liberation, and joy.
Design for Nothing is not just a philosophical guide; it's a step-by-step pathway to recognizing our true essence, awakening our universal intuition, and unleashing creative freedom. A wholehearted commitment to the Design for Nothing approach assures a means for personal growth that transcends conventional aspirations. It provides a gateway to the vertical dimension—a metaphoric realm of spiritual discernment, granting timely internal creative guidance coupled with indispensable tranquility and psychological sustenance.
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All or Nothing: Welcoming Various Perspectives
The phrase "Design for Nothing" embraces all interpretations and misinterpretations, benefiting anyone, with or without the introductory practice. Although the phrase is meant to be a call for nondual philosophical and spiritual practice, to design a mindset meant to unveil your true nature, creative thinkers, designers, and makers alike are welcome to extrapolate on it and explore its potential in creative endeavors.
To some, "Design for Nothing" suggests designing without a specific purpose or for no apparent reason. This phrase may also be interpreted as focusing purely on aesthetics or artistic expression without a deeper meaning or functional purpose. To others, it emphasizes immaterial or intangible aspects of design, such as concepts, digital elements, or experiential qualities. It could also imply a critique or rejection of consumerism and the overuse of resources in design practices.
We should all keep an open mind and explore what designing for nothing can be. See the liberation in "nothing" and embrace the provocation; results will follow.
Discover designing things for nothing →
Staying Awake or Falling Back Asleep
When you wake up in the middle of the night, it’s easy to lose the mind to various worries, unable to fall back asleep. At that moment, make the conscious decision to design for nothing. In your imagination, bring about the reality of a spacious, boundless mind that is beyond time and space. Let stillness enter. Let your unified, all-encompassing self enter. Let the One Mind enter.
That which can’t be explained will be experienced in that designed, light-filled mind space of yours. It has no image, no odor, no name, no brand, no role, no specific identity, but it is what you truly and fundamentally are. In that space, you'll find the sanctuary of your innocence, your guiltlessness, and your loving awareness. From that space, you will either fall asleep again, sure of your safety, at rest from the remembrance of your true nature, or you will have fun letting your mind produce a creation that is pure in nature.
Waking up in the middle of the night might not be the right time to find solutions for problems, forgive your grievances, or build a successful plan for your professional career. But it is a time that can be used by the One Mind for creativity, and the next morning you won’t complain, because the inspiration that knows all and sees all in wholeness was there with you.
Where other practices suggest breath work, sensing the buzzing feeling in your hands, or reading a book to fall back asleep, I do not recommend them if you are interested in living and experiencing the benefits of the nondual mindset.
Explore further: visual markers for the practice →
Follow the unconventional path.
Embarking on the Design for Nothing journey calls upon the spiritual designer to assimilate transformative truths: Our sense of separation from the universal consciousness is but a mirage. The illusion of personal identity is often bound by societal conditioning and genetics. The constructs of past and future are irrelevant to our timeless true self.
These concepts challenge conventional views and might seem paradoxical in a world seemingly ruled by critical thinking, executive functioning, and strenuous efforts, but they are crucial in the journey to enlightenment, inner peace, and creative freedom. In choosing to focus on training the Mind, redesigning our life, and wholeheartedly embracing these insights, we put an end to the suffering of an ego-driven world whose purpose seems to be 'seek-but-don’t-find.'
Embrace non-attachment to the physical world, enter the realm of eternal consciousness, float on the ocean of the One Mind, and rejoice as fears about the future become non-existent. Judgments fade to become unconditional Love, and attacks cease to be personal, revealing themselves as simple projections of a Mind asleep. No actual harm has ever been inflicted, nor will ever be internalized for the one whose essence of pure universal consciousness has been realized. Practice the steps of Design for Nothing and join in this awakening. In this transformative journey, accepting what was once deemed unacceptable becomes the new standard, leading to greater freedom, deeper understanding, and a renewed sense of meaning.
Unconventional for designers and makers →DfN for designers.
Using it to heal.
Explore our comprehensive research on Design for Nothing.
This blog post delves into the origins of 'Design for Nothing,' a practice that integrates elements of Advaita Vedanta, Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and 'A Course in Miracles' to transcend ego and realize one's true, nondual essence. Discover the story behind the choice of the term "design" and how it shapes the philosophy. Learn how to create an inner space for 'nothing' and experience profound shifts in perception.