Mindful Minute — Starting Fresh: The Joy of Being a Beginner
By Koryn Sheppard
As January rings in a new year, we often feel a collective pressure to “fix” ourselves through rigid resolutions. However, instead of focusing on what needs to be corrected, we can look at the new year as an invitation to embrace the “beginner’s mind.” Starting something brand new in January offers profound benefits for our mental and emotional well-being.
Being a novice is a powerful way to stimulate the brain and strengthen resilience. When we step out of our usual routines and try a new creative hobby or skill, we spark a light that can combat the feeling of being worn down or burnt out by everyday responsibilities. This intentional shift helps you find optimism and a sense of purpose, changing how you see challenges.
Embracing the role of a beginner—where we don’t have to be “perfect” or “flawless” — allows us to practice the vital skill of embracing imperfection. This shift in focus from “doing it right” to simply “doing it for joy” can significantly lower stress and improve our overall outlook. Focusing on what is meaningful rather than what is “flawless” lets you release the pressure of the “perfect” outcome. Allow yourself to find beauty in imperfect moments, recognizing that growth is more important than immediate mastery.
Give yourself permission to be a learner once again, recognizing that “no” to perfectionism can be a powerful stance. In our profession, there is often overwhelming pressure to be perfect. Allowing yourself to let go of perfectionism is freeing. Stepping into the role of a novice is a conscious act of welcoming change into your life. By intentionally choosing to be a beginner, you are not just checking a task off a list; you are connecting what you do to a feeling of possibility and optimism.
Engaging in something new is not about the end result, but about the nourishing experience of the journey itself. It allows us to step away from the pressure of mastery and focus on what is meaningful to us. Beyond the practical benefits of learning, there is a profound sense of peace found in engaging in a task with little or no consequence. When we choose an activity purely for the inherent joy rather than a specific result, we give ourselves a vital “break” from the pressure to be productive or successful. This practice allows us to embrace a moment without the weight of expectations. By focusing on a simple pleasure that lifts our spirits, we are purposefully making time for things that make us happy, which is a necessary step to recharge our emotional batteries and bring back a sense of purpose and joy.
A new activity or hobby can ground you in the present moment, especially one that uses your hands or senses, such as art or a new type of exercise. If a new pursuit feels overwhelming, break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps so you can focus on the joy of small gains. Trying something new is often better when shared, as these moments can make your relationships stronger and provide a vital support system when you feel alone. Adventures and new experiences are often better when shared with others, helping to foster new connections and strengthen existing ones. Being a novice requires your full attention, which helps you stay grounded and shift your focus away from stress. It provides an opportunity to find a new rhythm and create “anchors of joy” that help you navigate transitions with greater peace.
This January, let go of the idea of the “perfect” start. Give yourself permission to be “bad” at something new. By incorporating these small, intentional actions of discovery, you can navigate the winter months with a deeper sense of well-being and a renewed sense of purpose.
