You're starting something new: a hobby, designing your first website or maybe even a new business. You're excited and then you realize you don't know what you are doing.
Recently I decided to learn tapestry weaving. Not having a clue where to start, I googled it and bought
a "how-to" book. There were a lot of instructions which looked easy until I tried them.
Suddenly it was the difference between reading how to ride a bicycle and riding one. My efforts were amateurish and awkward.
I went to a weaving group to be among those who knew what they were doing. I was totally focused on the over-under stitch I was learning while others were talking and laughing as they casually worked. My brow was knitted in concentration and I talked to myself, "over-under, over-under..ooops what's wrong here it doesn't look right...darn how could I have messed this up, rip it out, over-under...." Enemy of Learning #1: I want to be good now!
When I got tired, I looked around and saw how really good the others are. These are fiber artists! How could I think I could be a part of this group? Enemy of Learning #2: I'll never be as good as them.
However, I was determined, so I continued after I left the group. I am working on little projects, learning how to maintain tension so the piece is even, what to do with those loose yarn ends, or how to start and finish a piece. My mind however says I should be doing more. Do all the exercises in the "how-to" book for example. Enemy of Learning #3: There's only one right way to do this and someone else knows it.
Needless to say this experience has reacquainted me with what works (and what doesn't) when learning something new. I offer these humble words of wisdom for those of you embarking on new adventures:
- I have learned to start where I am and keep going.
- Don't compare myself to those who have been doing it for years.
- Stay true to my inner guidance, the rest is just input.
I'm back to being excited and yes, enjoying the littles discoveries that someday, I too, will take for granted.
Tapestry from weavingart museum.
