The Courage to Be a Beginner

The idea of having the courage to be a beginner came up in our most recent book club discussion. We shared how each of us are setting goals to work on ourselves or perhaps to try something new.

We’ve all been there: inspired yet not sure where to begin. Perfectionism, fear, doubt can get in the way. This takes courage to try and resilience to learn from mistakes, which are part of the process.

New Moments in Pregnancy and Parenthood

This time can come with a lot of preparation, including books, advice, and planning. It brings new ways of seeing and doing things.

Even with preparation and support, you’re still likely to face a moment of realizing:

“I’m new at this.” 

In this moment, we encourage you to pause and name the discomfort of not knowing what you’re doing yet. Be gentle with yourself, as you’re learning and growing stronger every day.

Being a Beginner Doesn’t Mean Unprepared

During pregnancy and early parenthood, being a beginner can include:

• Waking up at night and learning your baby’s rhythms

• Unexpected sensations in pregnancy

• Tackling unfamiliar tasks without a script

This can feel vulnerable, but it takes courage to step into the unknown. Courage doesn’t always come with certainty. Sometimes it looks like showing up anyway. 

Learning Together

Being a beginner in parenthood means opening your heart to the unknown. When you show up with courage, there is trust in learning as it unfolds. 

Learning rarely happens all at once. In fact, it is made up of many small moments such as:

• Learning how your baby likes to be held

• How they let you know they are tired or hungry

• How your body responds to the long days and nights

At the same time, your baby is learning from you. This shared experience grows through love, patience, and time. 

There is also comfort in knowing that you are not alone in this season of life. Whether it’s sharing responsibility with your loved ones or connecting with the Hey Ms Norbi community, support can help you step into the unknown and hold the courage it takes to be a beginner.

Save our Affirmations for Courage for when you need support in new moments 🌞