There is a big difference between being taught something and actually feeling like you are learning it. I was reminded of that recently when I signed up for an eight-week line dancing class. Although I had tried line dancing before, this class felt different almost immediately. Rather than introducing the music and expecting us to follow along, the instructor broke each dance into smaller pieces. We practiced one move, added another, went back when someone had a question, and built from there. By the time the music started, we already had a foundation, and instead of feeling overwhelmed, we were having fun.

That experience stayed with me because it highlighted something we do not always recognize when learning a new skill. The struggle may not be the subject itself. Sometimes we need a different teacher or a more supportive environment. Other times we need time to become comfortable with the basics. Investing in our learning is so important. We need willingness to participate, stay curious, and put what we are learning into action.

In this Wise Walk, we talk about the experiences and relationships that can shorten a learning curve without taking away the value of doing the work. I share what this line dancing class taught me about repetition, confidence, and the importance of allowing ourselves to be beginners. We also explore the role commitment plays in the learning process, why small wins create momentum, and how the right support can make growth feel both challenging and rewarding.

• What are you naturally drawn to right now, even though you still feel like a novice or beginner?
• Since you are naturally curious about it, what could you do to invest in your own success?
• What resources might empower you in ways you have not yet anticipated?
• Where can you carve out 10 to 60 minutes a day to practice, build consistency and confidence, and apply what you are learning?
• As you reflect on something you are excited to learn, how do you feel about your learning experience so far?
• Do you feel like you are being set up for success?
• Have you invested in the right resources to gain the knowledge and support you are seeking?
• Do you leave your learning sessions or practice time feeling encouraged, or do you walk away feeling frustrated and deflated?
• If you are feeling frustrated, what could you give yourself or incorporate into the experience that would help you start small, build confidence, and experience a meaningful win?
• Are you allowing yourself to celebrate your progress and reinforce what you have learned in ways that will stay with you?
• How are you investing in your learning?
• Are you showing up with commitment and taking the process seriously?
• Are you contributing your time and energy in ways that keep the momentum and learning moving forward?
• Are you willing to listen, pay attention, and apply what you are learning so you can discover what works best for you?
• How can you honor your own learning style while exploring different resources, mentors, and educational opportunities?
• How can you make sure you feel supported and committed as you pursue something that is calling to you?
• Can you become comfortable with being a novice or beginner before advancing to the next level?
• Are you allowing yourself enough time to build a strong foundation before trying to move ahead?
• What are the small steps that will help you learn without becoming overwhelmed?
• Can you recognize that each new skill you develop is building your competence and bringing you closer to the next level?
• Can you get excited about completing something new without feeling frustrated or unsure of yourself?
• Can you continue to practice so that, when you are ready for the next level, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in learning what comes next?

Wherever your curiosity is leading you, I hope you give yourself the time, resources, and encouragement to enjoy the learning curve and recognize every bit of progress you are making.

I would love to hear what you took away from today's episode, so please feel free to reach out and share. I look forward to next Thursday's Wise Walk.

In this episode:

• [03:19] After my first line dancing session, I thanked the instructor for giving us short, digestible entry points.
• [04:31] We would learn one short move and then add on another. The repetition was beautiful.
• [05:14] There was also a safe environment to ask questions. Our confidence was built as we grew.
• [06:06] We also nailed one dance before going on to a new one. Each session builds and is broken down step-by-step.
• [08:54] Investing in your learning and success is broad. You can mentor and rally around people who can help you learn.
• [10:47] I'm still learning with my friends that are going to hike the John Muir Trail.
• [12:58] It's amazing what we can accomplish when we put our minds to something.
• [13:18] I love teaching, and some of the same elements apply as my love for learning.
• [15:57] If your heart isn't in it, it's not going to be a good time for the student or the teacher.
• [18:13] I'm so jazzed about my teacher that I'm also carving out time to learn the steps she's teaching us.
• [19:07] Building your foundation also sets your teacher up for success.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Learning doesn't just happen in a classroom. We are constantly learning. We are constantly challenging ourselves." - Mary Tess
• "It is amazing what we can accomplish when we put our minds to something and we invest in that commitment for ourselves." - Mary Tess
• "Each item that you learn, you're building competence, you're getting one step closer to advancing to that next level." - Mary Tess
• "All of us need that foundational work. We need to learn how to stand and walk on our skis before we can go down the slope." - Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

• Mary Tess Rooney
• Email
• Heart Value

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