Last week, I wrote a blog post, “Showing Up: A Lesson From Two Yoga Classes.” My sister said it reminded her of a saying she has always believed in: “Don’t quit before you even begin.” The more I thought about it, the more I realized how often we give up on a goal or task before we even give it a chance.
It can show up in small ways—a hobby you want to try, a skill you want to develop, or even a new recipe you’re afraid to attempt because it seems too hard. We quit before we even try.
I see this in myself too. When I was younger, I always admired people who could draw and paint beautifully. I wanted to try, but I told myself it was too hard and that I wasn’t cut out for it—before I even picked up a pencil. When I finally took the courage to start, it wasn’t as hard as I imagined. I also realized something important: learning happens after you begin.
So this week, I’m reminding myself—and anyone who needs it—that waiting for perfect conditions is the fastest way to stall growth. Don’t quit before you even begin. Show up, take the first step, and sometimes, starting is already the victory.