The Importance of Taking that First Step
“I can’t even draw a straight line! How can I paint?” was my first response when my good friend Rie Rumito asked if I would join her very first watercolor painting class. That was two years ago. Looking back, I am so happy that I made that decision to support Rie in her quest to share her love of painting with others. To her, anyone can learn to paint!
Discovering New Possibilities
So, I took my first small step and went for my first painting class. That small step helped me to see possibilities that I had never seen before! As Rie pointed out, there are strategies to help you draw a straight line, and what’s more, you can paint without straight lines!
Committing to Continuous Learning
That one small step led to another and another. After a few months, I decided to commit to keep learning and get better at watercolors.
This is an example of exhibiting a Growth Mindset: the belief that you can learn, grow and get better with dedicated effort, appropriate strategies, and help from others.
Exploring New Horizons
I am so glad I took that first small step, to explore, experiment, and take myself out of my comfort zone and learn. Things are a lot more interesting for me now, it’s like I’ve opened a new door and I see the world differently.
The Benefits of an Artistic Hobby
I now have an artistic hobby where I can express myself, enhance my creative growth, and more importantly improve my general wellbeing. All it took was that one small step to try an experiment and the belief that I can learn and get better.
What is the one “small step” that you will take today?
What new experience, or experiment, can you create for yourself?
Written by:
Linda Tan-Spicer, Lead Development Strategist of ILS
Linda is a seasoned performance strategist with over 20 years of experience helping organisations and individuals thrive. Specialising in mindset work and behavioural change, she creates environments where people can discover their strengths, embrace their potential, and grow in meaningful ways.
Believing in the ripple effect of personal growth, Linda sees every step toward self-improvement as a benefit to teams, organisations, and society. At her core, she’s a coach and facilitator who walks alongside others on their journey to unlock potential, navigate challenges, and cultivate a fulfilling life.
