3 Steps to Building Your Confidence

by Jason Gracia

I just learned how to drive a stick shift! I have put it off forever, but finally did it. I
realized a few things after this experience. Many people want to try new things,
but hold back. Below are three reasons why people don't try new things, and
what you can do to avoid them.

1. LACK OF UNDERSTANDING
I didn't understand how driving this type of car worked. If I did, I would have been
more willing to give it a try. When we don't understand how something works, it is
easier to shy away from trying it.

The solution is to learn how it works. Get the facts and talk with others who have
experienced it. After learning how it works, you will find it to be less
overwhelming, and you will be more willing to learn something new.

2. NAYSAYERS
People love to tell each other that things are harder than they think. I have heard
many times that driving a stick shift is tough, and most beginners have a horrible
time learning it. I believed them. When someone offered to let me try, I declined,
remembering what my friends had told me.

The solution is to ignore the naysayers and just do it! Maybe they are right, and it
is hard. That is still no reason not to try. Maybe they are wrong, and it's not so
bad. You'll never know until you do it.

3. EMBARRASSMENT
One of the biggest obstacles to learning new things is the fear of doing it wrong.
We worry so much about what others think that we forgo many opportunities and
challenges. The solution is simple.

Don't worry about it! People do not pay as much attention to you as you may
think. They also feel the same way. Take the risk, and go for it! When you
succeed, you may inspire others to do the same.

When you are interested in trying something new, learn about it, don't worry
about negative comments, and don't worry about doing it wrong. Have fun and
just do it!