11 Comments
User's avatar
B Gabriella Brown's avatar

Loveee these reflections. It’s so relatable, the urge to get past the “beginning” stage so that we’re “good” at something. But being a beginner (and/or having a beginners mindset) can bring such joy!

Nicholas Goodey's avatar

Two peas in a pod Caryn. I've just peeled myself away from my list for 2026 of all the things I want to become Supreme Champion at, but I know I'm throwing fifty darts at a board and will see which ones stick around.

I found a nice little workaround to satisfy my need for mastery, while balancing the reality that I can never be a master in all the fields of life I enjoy, and it came after getting into qigong and mediation as well! My goal is simply to master being myself. What that looks like is pretty good at lots of things, very good at fewer, exceptional at even less, but the mastery is reserved for how I show up in the world. It certainly took the pressure off.

BUT a writing circle is on the list ;)) I'm back in Vietnam very soon, and then I'll be ready <3 it's been far too hectic here... Best wishes for the new year !

Caryn's avatar

Thanks for sharing this with me. tomás below is in Da Nang- you should meet when you’re back!!

Glad to know qi gong did that for you :) I realise my urgency is to do with a core wound I have around not being enough/worthy. Happy New year back

Nicholas Goodey's avatar

Such a precious insight. Thank you for sharing it <3

Tomás Acuña's avatar

Hey Nicholas 👋 Caryn says you’re in Da Nang and we should meet! Are you still around?

Nicholas Goodey's avatar

She is correct and I am!! I'll pop over to Loco Tay this evening in about half an hour if that works? Not an ideal spot but a bunch of people get down there :)

Tomás Acuña's avatar

Ah I already have some plans for tonight. But if you’re around for a bit, let’s grab a bite or some coffee in the next few days!

Nicholas Goodey's avatar

Mate I've not heard from Caryn re: your number. you're living here, right?

Nicholas Goodey's avatar

Sure, I live here :) I'll text Caryn for your number and we can get in touch directly. I need to organise a writing circle with her anyway!!!

Tomás Acuña's avatar

I feel this! Too much focus on the outcome ends up being demoralizing - you need enjoyment to have the urge to start and to have the stamina to keep going. This reminded me of a couple other pieces that I think you’d like - I’ll send them to you. Also, I can’t remember, but have you had a chance to explore the spice garden in Penang? Plant nerd heaven!

Caryn's avatar

Please do!

Alex and I just started rubbing 5k and it’s helped me solidifying this lesson of stamina to keep going. I think I have a weak mind that is impatient and unwilling to keep going 🤣

Not yet- we plan to.

Also funnily the two people I know in Da Nang commenting on this. You and Nicholas ^ should meet when he’s back!