Starting something new is scary. It takes courage and pushing down all the feelings that you will totally mess it up. The problem is, when you do something new, you WILL mess it up. It's inevitable. That is why it takes bravery.
It's especially hard, if you are a perfectionist like me, because you don't want to be terrible at it. In fact, this is the simple reason many people don't try new things! Whether you are having a baby, or embarking on a new business venture, you want more than anything to get it right the first time, but instead, it takes practice, perseverance, and prayer.
Even if you have experience, like being a second-time mom, you may go in thinking that you've got the knowledge and the skills to totally conquer it this time around, no mistakes...only to find out this is TOTALLY different. Turns out, your second child is nothing like your first child, and all the knowledge you thought you had attained goes right out the window and you are starting from scratch again. Go figure.
Similarly, a few months ago I thought about adding videography to my services, because in my naivety, I assumed that my photography skills would transfer perfectly over into creating video. I had the basic equipment and the artistic eye, I have over a decade experience with the camera, and I had the drive to pursue it. What more would I need? Well, as it turns out, photography and videography are two very different arts that just happen to be created by the same tool--a camera. After a little bit of research, I became overwhelmed and gave up all together. Clearly this was not meant for me, and I decided rather than try and fail, I would stick with what I already know and am successful at. That was that.
Until... a few months later, when out of the blue, I was encouraged by my Pastor to look into making a video for our ministry. Upon receiving his message I laughed out loud, because I couldn't believe just a few weeks after I had thrown in the towel, that I was being encouraged to continue, especially considering I hadn't told anyone except my husband that I was even tinkering with the idea. After a little wondering how in the world I was going to do it, a bit more research, and a TON of prayer, I realized it was meant to be. I know now that God had His hand in it, and I can't wait to see what will come of it! So, I invested in classes to learn, and started practicing. To be completely honest, I still am.
But, isn't that the goal in life -- continuous growth through practice? Every time I think I am closer to reaching my potential and wondering how I could possibly get better, I see how far I still have to go. Turns out, no matter what your calling is, whether it's being a parent, or expanding your business, or honing your existing skills, there is always room to improve.
My advice?
Don't let the fear of failure stop you from giving it a shot anyways. Start something new, and see just how far it can take you.
XOXO,
Delaney