This past week, I was in California, taking surfing lessons. I had never tried surfing before. Come to think of it, I've not tried to learn a brand new skill for....a long time.
I am by no means a perfect sewer, but I'm competent. I've been sewing for over 20 years, so of COURSE I'm competent! You don't get good at something by accident. I've been a 'surfer' (and I use that term generously) for only a week. So of COURSE I'm NOT competent at surfing. But, I have to admit this. In my heart, in my hopes, as I prepared to take surf lessons, I was thinking I'd rise like Athena from those waves, riding the board on the strength of confidence and enthusiasm. Duh, Barbara. Of COURSE I did NOT. Surfing is a collection of skills, just like sewing is. And I had to learn those skills.
It was kind of wierd, at my stage in life, to be in the position of "beginner", and it was also a reminder to me of this: It's effort - the journey - that is the most fun. Mastery is pretty cool, of course, but the seeking and the learning are the best feeling, to me.
So, this is what I would like to share as a result of my surfing safari. Yeah, I know you already know this stuff...but I found it valuable to be reminded of it and maybe you will, too:
1. Give yourself a break! Very few of us can do anything perfectly the first time out. It's ok not to be perfect.
2. You're never too old to try something new.
3. When you venture into new territory, you will get beat up. Pick up, wring out your hair, shake off the sand, and keep going!
4. The help of a supportive friend or two will carry you through some tough times.
5. Victory is sweetest when it's shared.
6 comments:
Sing it sister! This post speaks to me on many levels. :)
WOW, great post! And kudos to you for doing the research needed to write the post ;)
I think its so kewl that you tried something new and your advice is wonderful and words to live by!
Congratulations on learning something new! I started to sew "late" and I'm enjoying every new skill I learn.
That must have been so fun! You look super hot in your surfing outfit, by the way :)
So right! I'm making progress with sewing, and more so now that I've accepted the fundamental role of the seam ripper in my sewing studio. Mistakes are okay, fixing them is even better. (redid my goofed up overlapped zipper in side seem last night, now it looks good)
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