Most of us don’t like being bad at things.

When you’re young, being a beginner is normal. We fall off the bike, miss the ball, play the wrong note, and try again. Nobody expects us to know what we’re doing.

Unfortunately, that changes when we're adults. We get comfortable being capable. We know our jobs, and generally avoid situations that might make us look foolish. Although I seem to do that a lot:)

I know the feeling. When I try something new, part of me wants to skip the awkward stage and be good at it right away. Unfortunately, learning doesn’t work that way.

You have to ask questions, make mistakes, and be willing to embarrass yourself. (Note to self: watching a three-minute video online does not make me an expert :)

Being a beginner has tremendous value. It makes you curious again, teaches patience, and reminds you how difficult learning can be. You may even develop a new appreciation for people who have spent years developing their skills.

Eventually, you may get good at it, or you decide it’s not for you. Either outcome is better than refusing to try because you’re worried about how you’ll look.

Maybe we should all be willing to be bad at something occasionally.

What would you be willing to try?