Starting where you are

Recently, I taught a friend how to play a game I love. She was willing to jump in and give it a try, and I was struck by her willingness to look a little clueless. Watching her reminded me that learning something new requires a bit of bravery.

At the beginning, there was only her stuff. Full on tunnel vision. She was focused entirely on her own game pieces, overwhelmed by the rules, and trying desperately not to mess up. She was in full survival mode.

After a couple of games, things began to shift. She remembered some of the rules. She started to look up and notice the other players and their pieces. She was still figuring things out, but her awareness had expanded. She was getting more comfortable.

Then came the turning point. A bold move paid off and she sent someone home. Her first real taste of success. Other players gasped, surprised by her move. Suddenly the game came alive. There were groans. There was drama. A little intrigue. The fun had begun.

Learning something new can be awkward in the beginning. But when you’re willing to start where you are - and stay with it - it can also be deeply fun. There’s connection in it: time spent with friends, shared experiences, laughter, frustration, and small victories along the way. Starting where you are doesn’t mean lowering the bar. It means giving yourself permission to begin.

When was the last time you let yourself be a beginner at something?

mgk