I recently started small-group strength training classes and it has me reflecting on all the ways that being a “beginner” at anything is so challenging, regardless of the activity or skill you are trying to learn!
Here are some tips on being a beginner:
- Research, but not extensively.
- Stop researching. Seriously, stop.
- Make an appointment or sign-up for a class. It usually takes 15 minutes of courage to send the email or walk into the gym / shop.
- Ask questions before the appointment to the host. What you need to wear, what to bring, the cancellation policy, etc.
- Just show up.
- Be honest about your skill level and why you are there.
- Pace yourself or take the easy route. Remember the goal was just to go!
- Introduce yourself to a few people.
- Make another appointment before you leave.
- Think about what went well and what you will do differently next time.
- Treat yourself! Yes, I mean literally go buy yourself a latte or post about it on social media. Give yourself some gold stars for completing the hardest part.
As adults I think we put so much pressure on ourselves to be amazing at something the very first time we do it. It’s why I love this quote from East of Eden by John Steinbeck.
And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.
Have you ever been a beginner at something as an adult? What was it and what advice do you have for other beginners?
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