How to Learn Anything New (Even If You’re Terrified to Start)
Let Me Tell You a Secret About My First Compost Pile
I remember the day I decided to learn how to compost. I was standing in the kitchen, Googling “how to compost without it smelling,” because I was terrified I’d mess it up. I didn’t grow up with compost bins. I didn’t even grow up with a garden. But something in me said, “Try anyway.” So I did. Clumsily. Hesitantly. Imperfectly. And now? Composting is second nature.
That story isn’t really about composting though. It’s about starting something you’re scared of.
Maybe it’s sourdough. Maybe it’s fixing a tire. Maybe it's learning how to budget, sew, swim, or even speak kindly to yourself.
Whatever it is: You don’t have to wait until you’re confident to begin. Confidence comes from starting.
Why Start (Even When It’s Scary)?
Here’s the truth: Everyone who’s good at something was once bad at it. Every expert was once a beginner. Every confident person started with shaking hands and unsure steps.
So if you're feeling nervous, awkward, or overwhelmed by the idea of learning something new, you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. It doesn’t mean you’re behind—it means you’re at the starting line.
5 Easy Steps to Learn Anything New (Even If You’re Terrified)
1. Start Tiny
Instead of planning the whole journey, take one ridiculously small step.
💡 Example: Want to learn to cook? Just pick one easy recipe. Or just learn how to chop an onion.
Tiny steps build trust with yourself—and that builds confidence.
2. Let Yourself Be Bad at It
Give yourself permission to be awkward, clumsy, or confused.
You’re not failing—you’re learning. Being bad at something at first is proof you’re doing the work.
💬 Say it with me: “I’m allowed to be new.”
3. Find a Friendly Guide
Look for people or videos that make you feel safe, not shamed.
Skip the intense tutorials and go for beginner-friendly creators who explain with kindness. Bonus points if they laugh at their own mistakes.
4. Set a 10-Minute Timer
You don’t need a weekend or a full day. Just 10 minutes a day is enough.
💡 Consistency over intensity is how you build real skills.
You’ll be amazed what 10 minutes a day adds up to over time.
5. Celebrate the Process (Not Just the Product)
Did you show up and try today? That counts.
Take a photo. Share it with a friend. Write it in a journal.
Celebrate the fact that you chose growth, even if it wasn’t perfect.
A Note to Squish
Dear Squish,
I hope you know you never have to be the best at something for it to matter. Trying is beautiful. Starting—even when you’re scared—is brave.
Life will always offer you new things to learn, and I hope you meet them with curiosity, kindness, and courage.
And if you ever feel afraid to try, remember: I’ve felt that too. We all have. But trying anyway? That’s how you grow.
Love with All our Heart,
Mom and Dad
5 Tools from Amazon to Make Learning Easier
(Affiliate Disclosure: The links below are affiliate links. That means we may make a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we personally believe in and use in our home.)
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook – Perfect for tracking what you're learning without wasting paper.
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear – A simple, powerful book for building small habits that stick.
Kitchen Starter Kit – Everything you need to feel confident trying a new recipe.
Basic Sewing Kit – Learning to sew? This kit has everything to get started—without being overwhelming.
Sourdough Starter Kit – A sourdough starter kit provides the essential tools and ingredients to cultivate natural yeast, enabling you to bake fresh, flavorful, and artisan-quality bread at home.
Final Thoughts
Wherever you are in your learning journey, please know:
✨ You don’t have to be fast.
✨ You don’t have to be perfect.
✨ You just have to begin.
So this week, try one thing that’s new to you. Write it down. Set a 10-minute timer. Show up for yourself—not because you “should,” but because you can.
And if you need a little encouragement? We’re right here with you.
