Embrace Your Inner Rock Star
When I was 15, an unexpected opportunity knocked on my door, and it came with a guitar riff. Some friends showed up knowing I had an electric guitar. They needed someone to play for a Battle of the Bands. Despite never being in a band before and only having a modest ability to play, I did what any enthusiastic kid would do: I jumped in with both feet.
I showed up at the Battle of the Bands, looking the part. This was many years ago, maybe a couple of decades or more. Picture it: sunglasses, spiked hair, and a rebellious spirit. We were a Sex Pistols cover band, among other things I can't recall. I remember clearly the mix of apprehension and excitement coursing through me. I was nervous and not very talented; this was my first performance. But that experience kicked off what would become 15 years of playing in various bands, having a blast through my twenties.
Fast forward to adulthood, and I see a stark difference in how we approach new challenges. As kids, we dive in headfirst, but as adults, we hesitate. We overthink, procrastinate, plan endlessly, and forecast potential outcomes. We let fear and uncertainty paralyze us, forgetting the raw enthusiasm that once propelled us forward.
Reflecting on my teenage band experience, I realize how important it is to recapture that youthful zeal. When we were kids, we didn't overanalyze; we acted. We made mistakes, learned from them, and kept going. That’s the mindset we need to bring into our adult lives and ambitions.
Here’s what playing in that band taught me:
Jump In with Both Feet: Don’t wait for perfect conditions or complete readiness. Start now, and figure things out along the way.
Embrace Mistakes: Mistakes are inevitable and invaluable. They teach us what works and what doesn’t, and they build resilience.
Maintain Enthusiasm: Your energy and passion are your greatest assets. Let them drive you, even when you're unsure of the outcome.
Act As If: Confidence often follows action. By acting as if you’ve been there before, you begin to build the skills and mindset needed for success.
Keep Moving Forward: Progress isn’t always linear, but you’re headed in the right direction as long as you keep moving.
In pursuing our goals today, we should remember to channel that kid-like enthusiasm. Whether you’re starting a new project, changing careers, or picking up a new hobby, don’t let adult apprehension hold you back. Jump in with both feet, embrace the journey with all its bumps, and keep your inner rock star alive.
Playing in a band sparked my enthusiasm. For you, it might be something different. Whatever it is, tap into that spirit, park your fears, and move forward. Sometimes, all it takes to achieve your goals is to start with the same fearless enthusiasm you had as a kid.
