Is there something you would like, or need, to learn but are unsure where to start? We have all wanted or needed to learn something new at some point.
Maybe you have always wanted to try quilting. Or maybe learn to ski. Or perhaps you have to learn something, like a new computer system at work. Or perhaps it is simpler. Your daughter wants her hair French braided.
1) Plan. What do you want to do? Do you really want to do it? Do you feel excited about learning? How will you learn? Will you read, take classes, or find a mentor? How much time do you have to learn, and where will you fit it into your schedule? Do you need certain supplies to get
started?
Ask yourself these types of questions, research as needed, and write down the answers.
2) Commit. Committing to something doesn't mean you just say you're going to do it. Committing is actually beginning whatever it is.
Sign up for a class or private lessons, read a book, and/or get someone to teach you.
If you are learning to quilt, watch videos or take a class. Buy some inexpensive material to experiment
with.
Find a good ski instructor. Make the appointment for your first lesson.
If you are learning to French braid, get some thick yarn and practice before drafting your daughter to let you experiment on
her hair.
If you are learning something work-related, is there an online or in-person class? Contact the instructor and find out when the next session begins. Then sign up.
3) Do it...a lot. The third step, and sometimes the hardest, is to do it. It is easy to keep telling yourself, “I’m not ready.” But at some point, you really need to take a deep breath, jump, and begin. Then, once you begin, practice a lot.
Plan a quilt project; maybe just a small one. Buy fabric you like and commit to 15 minutes every evening.
Attempt that easy ski slope. Then go back up and do it again. Keep repeating.
French braid your daughter’s hair each night while she's watching TV.
At work, keeping using that new system. It will get easier.
Finally, be comfortable with not being great at whatever it is right from the get-go. Getting really good at something takes time. Be patient with yourself and keep going.
