Starting a new hobby or going on a new adventure for the first time can be so intimidating! Whether you’re wanting to get into rock climbing or start running for the very first time, you DO NOT…I repeat DO NOT have to be an expert to try something new!
Don’t worry too much about not knowing certain things. You’ve got to trust the process and know that you’ll learn as you go! While you don’t have to know everything about the topic before jumping in, there is, however, a minimum base level of skills and information that you will need including…
- Basic skills
If you had to be an expert to start something new, no one would ever try anything! As you keep trying, your skills will grow and improve, but it is important to know the basic skills before diving into something unfamiliar! For example, if you’re wanting to go rock climbing, you don’t have to be a world class champion, but it may be beneficial to take a class, watch some Youtube videos, and learn the basic skills before getting started!
- Safety gear
When you’re learning about the basic skills you need, you’ll also need to make sure that you have the gear that is essential for your safety. Some hobbies and adventures require a great deal of safety gear, take climbing for example, but some require little at all! Just make sure you are prepared before jumping into your new adventure!
- Basic gear
Start with the bare necessities. You don’t HAVE to have everything. If you’re wanting to start running for the very first time, you’re going to need some tennis shoes. Do you need the most expensive, top of the line shoes before you take your first step? NO! Do you also need a fancy water bottle or hydration pack, top of the line running socks, and the newest, coolest running shorts? NO!
All you need are some running clothes, a good ole pair of socks, and some shoes. Start with just the basics, and in time, you can accumulate more!
- Transportation
If you’re planning on taking up cycling, surfing, kayaking, or anything that can’t just fit in your car and go, you’ll need to know how to transport it. Essentially, you need to ask yourself…What do I need to get my basic gear from point A to point B?
It can seem overwhelming to plan, but once you figure out your transportation, logistically, you’re pretty much ready to go!
- Fuel and Nutrition
What do you need to fuel yourself during this new adventure? How long will you be out? If you’re just starting to run or bike, you may not need anything. However, if you’re planning on a full day hike or something like that, you’re going to need to think about and plan ahead what kind of fuel you’ll need to be successful!
It’s so easy to fret over all of the things that could go wrong, but we need to remember and think about all of the things that could go right! You don’t need to be an expert to go out there and do something really cool and really exciting. The more you act, the more confident you will be, and the more you will learn! If you’re interested in learning more about getting out there and trying a new, fun adventure, be sure to check out my 3-part Something to Look Forward To mini podcast series. Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 are already available! Give them a listen and prepare to be inspired!