Isn't it the truth? Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy. What is it that is holding you back? Have you thought that maybe YOU should be the director of the choir. You can see yourself there but --- . Do you even know what that 'but' is?
1. Somebody once said you couldn't - Search your background. Did it ever happen that you tried something new and someone made an off-hand remark about how it wasn't this or it wasn't that? Usually those remarks come from that person's lack of self-confidence. Most of the time they are talking about themselves and projecting it on you. They mean to protect you but are actually chipping away at your confidence so it will be down at the same level as theirs. It is really important to be able to recognize that kind of comment for what it is. It is NOT about you and so you must not let it rule your choices.
2. You don't feel prepared - Man there are people out there who need to read everything, take every course, and then practise for years before they peel a carrot. I am not saying that you should walk off the street and be ready to conduct a symphony orchestra but you sure could start by singing in a community choir. If the choir is like ours that doesn't require auditions, you just show up. No one is going to judge you. You just need to put together the courage to show up and then start learning. At some point, you have to go from studying the driver's manual to getting in the car. Well, get in the darn car - um - choir.
3. What if I am no good at it - What if you are good at it? You won't know until you try. The big thing is you have to try it out. You know that beautifully cut suit you have been eyeing the the window of your favourite shop. I bet it will look great on you. So get that handsome body into the shop and give it a try.
4. Give up on the what if's all ready - You know we could spend our whole life waiting until all the lights are green and the way is clear before starting out on any adventure. We all know that just isn't going to happen. There are no guarantees. But, there may be some surprises out there when you you stop what-if-ing yourself out of every challenge.
Be brave. Trust yourself and try something new. Even if it is a new hair colour, or different food. Then, come on out to choir and see how much fun it is and how marvellous you truly are.
