The Courage to Begin: Embracing Vulnerability in Starting Something New
There’s a distinct kind of fear that comes with beginning something new. It’s a mix of excitement and dread, possibility and doubt. Whether it’s launching a business, training for a race, or simply putting yourself out there in a new way, stepping into the unknown requires something we often resist—vulnerability.
Starting something new means admitting, even if only to ourselves, that we don’t have it all figured out. It’s exposing our hopes, our effort, and sometimes our failures to the world. It’s opening ourselves to the possibility of criticism or rejection. And that can be terrifying. But it can also be freeing.
Why Vulnerability Feels So Uncomfortable
Vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness, but in reality, it’s one of the greatest strengths we can cultivate. When we let go of the need to appear perfect or in control, we allow ourselves to truly experience growth. The discomfort comes from the unknown—Will this work? Will people support me? Am I good enough? But the only way to get answers to those questions is by moving forward anyway.
What If We Reframed Vulnerability as Bravery?
Starting something new is an act of courage. Every expert was once a beginner. This is what inspired my very first blog back in 2017 called “the beginner.” Every success story started with someone saying, “I’m going to try.” Instead of seeing vulnerability as something to fear, what if we saw it as proof that we are doing something worthwhile? What if the shaky hands and nervous excitement were simply signs that we’re alive and pushing past our comfort zones?
Giving Yourself Permission to Be Seen
Not everyone will understand what you’re doing. Some people might doubt you. But you aren’t doing this for them. You’re doing it because something inside you said, “This matters.”
So, show up messy. Learn as you go. Ask for help when you need it. And remind yourself that vulnerability isn’t just part of the process—it is the process.
You don’t have to be fearless to begin. You just have to be willing.
xo
MK