The Beginning
It all starts with an idea.
Maybe you want to launch a business. Perhaps you're tired of making excuses and want to finally hit the gym. Maybe you’re ready to turn a hobby into something more, or you have a creative project you’ve been sitting on for too long.
Whatever it is - what matters is not the idea itself, but how you act on it.
The Simple Key
There are countless complex ways to pick a lock. But maybe, all along, there was a simple key meant to open that door. While you search for better tools or smarter techniques, what you've really been missing is the simplest move of all…
All you’ve got to do is just simply start.
Take the first step.
Take the leap of faith.
You need a Day One.
In martial arts, people often believe the hardest belt to earn is the black belt. But the truth?
The most difficult one is the white belt, because most people never start - that’s what makes it the toughest of them all.
When I was younger, I trained Muay Thai. I loved the challenge, but worried it was too injury-prone. Still, it was a fun way to test myself. As a teenage video gamer, it was quite thrilling to step into a ring and test myself against another thinking, breathing human being, not just a game-controlled opponent. When the opponent can think just like you (if not better), the challenge is exponentially more challenging. And while Muay Thai doesn’t have a belt system, I had always dreamed of earning a black belt at something. Anything.
It took me 10 years just to earn my white belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu…
10 years for the belt you get on your first day.
Why?
Because starting feels like the hardest part.
Those first months on the mat were crucial. You have to build a foundation and develop a mindset built to fail repeatedly, only to pick yourself up and improve by 1% every day. It was confusing at first - nothing makes sense, your body feels awkward, and progress seems invisible. Those first months were full of failure, but that was something I was experienced at from other aspects of my life.
I was able to translate that knowledge and what mattered most was this:
Show up and do the thing.
Why You Need a Beginner’s Mindset
The struggles of being a white belt are part of the plan. You’ve got to keep pushing through and with time, dedication and hard work, you’ll eventually become a successful practitioner. The same applies to everything in life. And to do it, you need a beginner’s mindset.
A beginner's mindset means approaching life with a sense of curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn - even if you think you already know it all. It's about seeing things with fresh eyes and an open mind rather than being weighed down by your past experiences and preconceptions. It’s a concept derived from Zen Buddhism called "beginner's mind" and it’s a state of openness and curiosity, without any preconceived notions or expectations. When we are open to new possibilities, we are more likely to see opportunities that we would have otherwise missed. We are also more likely to be willing to take risks and try new things.
It allows you to approach even the most familiar topics or situations with renewed wonder and appreciation.
Most people quit shortly after starting something new, not because they lack skill, but because they lack this mindset. The beginner’s mindset allows you to appreciate small wins, stay curious, and keep learning. It reminds you that no matter how experienced you become, there's always more to discover. Not only does a beginner's mindset help you discover new and exciting things, but it also fosters gratitude and appreciation for what you already know.
Even the most experienced people need it.
Because growth never stops.
So remember - whether you're a seasoned veteran or a total novice, at whatever it is you do, never underestimate the power of a beginner’s mindset. You never know what discoveries or opportunities you might stumble upon when you keep your mind open and your ego in check.
Your Challenge
Whatever it is you’ve been holding back on… Go start that thing.
Go out there and finally start that thing you’ve always wanted to start, but lacked courage to do so.
It might just change your life.
You’ve already started something? No problem - approach it like a beginner.
Be consistent.
Show up.
Improve by 1% every day.
That’s the secret.
It’s not about being the most talented.
It’s about putting in the time, effort, and heart.
And once you start - don’t stop.
And then… Keep going.