Trying Something New

I am sincerely not a fan of this photo.

Look at my face, my shoulders. Actually—don’t. 😖 Please don’t zoom in.

I got an e-bike recently, which means I now spend a lot of time looking like someone who has never ridden a bike before.

Have you seen that episode of Schitt’s Creek where Alexis teaches David how to ride a bike?

Much to my horror, watching me is worse.

If I make it through a green light? Graceful. Thriving. Main character energy.

If I have to stop at a red light? Absolute chaos. There’s a strong chance I wobble, panic, or slowly tip over while pretending I meant to do that.

Who am I kidding? I fall over every time I hit a red. Every time.

Also, I have curly hair. Aside from how I (and everyone else) look in helmets, helmets and curly hair are not friends. Every destination now includes a moment where I catch my reflection and think, “Wow, okay.”

And honestly? I hate the feeling of being bad at something new. Or even relearning something old. I mean… don’t we all?

But that’s also what makes it exciting. Because I know if I keep riding, this eventually becomes normal. Easy, even.

And it reminds me a lot of posting on LinkedIn or networking during a job search. (Of course it does, Nicole. 💁🏽‍♀️)

Everyone thinks they look awkward. Everyone assumes people are watching and judging.

In reality, no one cares that much—they’re too busy worrying about themselves.

And the people who are paying attention? They’re usually learning from you.

The discomfort isn’t proof you shouldn’t do it. It’s proof you’re brave enough to learn in public.

So if you’re feeling a little wobbly putting yourself out there right now… you’re probably doing it right. Keep going.

And if you haven’t yet? Start.

PS—Her name is Carmen. I'll let you figure out why. 😉⚡