Be a beginner
Be a beginner
When fake spring rolled around, I decided I needed to force myself out of the house.
If it had been real spring, it probably would have been easier. But knowing my state of winter apathy was going to linger for at least a couple more months, I made plans with friends to do something. Literally anything.
I’ve lived in Michigan my entire life and had never tried snow skiing.
Two weeks ago, I took a lesson with two of my besties.
Around the same time, I also signed up for a watercolor landscape class and have completed two of the four sessions so far. I’ve never taken a formal art class before.
So - two new experiences, both at absolute beginner status.
I learned a lot.
Like how, as with most things, both were much harder than I expected.
Holding a tiny paintbrush and strapping on skis felt so foreign it was almost like my brain wasn’t operating at full speed.
And how showing up is always the hardest part.
But I was right about one thing: it would be fun.
I love painting. Like, a lot.
Skiing was fun too - and surprisingly meditative once I got the hang of it—but I’m pretty turned off by the amount of gear it requires.
What struck me most, though, is how much pressure we put on ourselves as adults not to “look stupid.” So much pressure that it often prevents us from trying things at all.
And that means potentially missing out on something we might have fallen in love with.
I try to show up to most things believing the stakes are nonexistent. Seriously - it takes so much pressure off.
With both skiing and painting, I just wanted to try them.
I had zero expectations.
I was completely okay with looking like a beginner.
And I really love a challenge.
Both experiences made me take inventory of where I could sprinkle a little more “zero expectations” into my life.
They made me question where I was creating high stakes for no reason other than to torture myself.
And they reminded me to give myself a little more grace when trying something new.
So friend, try something new - and soon.
I think the lessons might surprise you.
Images by Personal Branding Maven Elise Kutt at Mod Bettie Portraits
My name is Anna VanAgtmael, and I am retreat host, travel designer, and a certified yoga instructor with a passion for yoga, travel, and connecting with others.
I believe in trying everything once. My values lie in collecting memories over things.
My ambition is to inspire and encourage you to unmask your fears and jump into the unknown.
Anna VanAgtmael | Retreat Host | Travel Designer