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3 LESSONS FROM LEARNING A NEW SPORT

3 LESSONS FROM LEARNING A NEW SPORT

Jan 08, 2022
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This summer I finally made my goal of learning to surf happen - with the help of the amazing @surfschoolwales - but the whole process really got me thinking about the mindset behind taking up a new hobby or sport. Here are my three biggest takeaways…

1. IT’S FUN TO BE A BEGINNER
As adults we get so used to having somewhat mastered life that we forget what it’s like to be a beginner. Then we decide to try something new and realise it’s not as easy as we thought. Our ego kicks in to protect us and we say “Oh maybe that’s not for me” before bowing out. Learning anything new is a challenge - whether we choose to accept this or not determines how well we will do. At one point in life we couldn’t even walk, now look at us… running ultras, doing triathlons and conquering mountain hikes. Embrace the beginning stages, they’re humbling and exciting!

2. PROGRESS, NOT PERFECTION
During the first surfing lesson I took I stood up once, which was a small win in itself. The next time I went back I stood up a few more times and the time after that a few more times again. Even if I only stood up for a few seconds, I saw that as a minor victory and a step in the right direction. Rather than setting unrealistic targets and feeling deflated, each time I got knocked off I got back up. The determination to get better only got stronger. The same principle applies to any sport - just because you had a not-so-great run one day, it doesn’t define you. Get back out there the next day and try to be that little bit better with the lessons you learned the day before.

3. NOT EVERYTHING HAS TO BE A COMPETITION
When I’m out in the water, the last thing on my mind is how many waves the other surfers have caught. I’m too busy being present - checking my posture and waiting for the right time to paddle and trying NOT to fall off - to be distracted by my competitive brain. Instead, I find myself laughing and enjoying myself in the moment. Sometimes it’s ok to do something just because you love it and it’s fun. Embrace the moment and get fully immersed in what you’re doing. That will guarantee that you keep going back for more!
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