Do you remember that last time you tried something new? Do you remember how nervous but excited you felt? Maybe even a little reserved or apprehensive? Because I do. I am currently swimming in that feeling right now. It’s a strange feeling because it’s probably not that what you are doing for the first time is bad it’s just different and you know it might change things. Whether that be starting a new job, entering a new relationship, trying a new activity or hobby, doing something brand new for the first time brings up a lot of emotions.
Today, I want to focus on helping you get through that period of uncertainty that will undoubtedly come with the territory of doing something new.
First, when trying something, new it is crucial to reframe your mindset. When we approach something new, we often put on this guard and start thinking about how bad it might go. I am the first person who will jump to the worse conclusions and make up scenarios in my head of all the ways I will fail if I do or try something new. But one of the ways that I turn that mindset around is by reframing whatever I am about to do.
Instead of seeing it as doing something scary or different, I remind myself that it is an opportunity to learn and do something that I have never done before. It is a chance to add something new to my repertoire, a chance to connect with people I have never met, a chance to see just what I can do. Think of something new as an opportunity for change, but see it as inviting positive change into your life and not the negative aspects you have overthought in your head that will probably not happen.
Second, embrace the uncertainty. Before we start something new, there is a small period of hesitancy that naturally comes with trying something new. It is normal, and you need to understand that. You need to accept that you might not know what’s to come, and that is okay. No one expects you to know how to do everything right from the start. We are not born knowing everything and nor are expected to know how to navigate new opportunities in our lives. It is okay not to know what will happen.
By accepting that you don’t know what’s come, you are allowing yourself the chance to take a breath and start something new in a way that is open and shows you are willing to open. When we don’t know anything, the best way to change that is to approach it with a willingness to learn. We can only do that once we accept that the circumstances surrounding the situation might be uncertain, but you are willing to learn.
Third, just dive right in. Starting something new often feels like standing on the tip of the diving board in a pool. It’s scary, but once we just take a deep breath and jump in, it turns out that it isn’t so bad after all. Take a deep breath, have some faith in yourself, and just dive right into it.
The Life We Dream Of 