Finding Freedom in FFTs

So, I have a confession to make. I forgot to publish the newsletter yesterday. Yep, it happens to the best of us. But instead of beating myself up about it, I'm choosing to embrace my very own FFT. What's an FFT, you ask? Well, Brene Brown gifted us this term during the pandemic, and while I won't use my favorite F-word, it stands for F*cking First Time (FFT). And let me tell you, embracing FFTs is a game-changer.

The Power of FFTs - Embracing the Beginner Within

We all start from somewhere. We were all beginners at some point, stumbling through our first steps, our first words, our first attempts at anything. FFTs are an essential part of the journey because they signify growth, learning, and unlearning. It's about embracing change, challenges, and the messy process of becoming.

Last week, we talked about the power of the pivot. But here's the thing—you can't lean into pivoting without embracing FFTs. They go hand in hand. Every pivot begins with an FFT—an acknowledgment of trying something new, of venturing into uncharted territory, of daring to make a change. A choice to mess up and start again. It is really about parenting ourselves— encouragement, practice, growth mindsets, and knowing that the worst case scenario in our brain is not only unlikely, is also more self limiting than anything else.

Embracing Imperfection

Here's the truth: you have permission to make mistakes. You have permission to stumble, to falter, to mess up royally. It's all part of the journey. FFTs remind us that perfectionism is overrated and that growth often comes from the messy, imperfect moments.

We talk a lot about dropping perfectionism and people-pleasing, but we don't often talk about the hard stuff that comes with letting go. It's scary, it's uncomfortable, and it's downright messy. But here's the beauty of it: on the other side of letting go is freedom. Freedom to be yourself, flaws and all.

The Antidote to Perfectionism

When we give ourselves grace, we're giving ourselves permission to fail forward. It's about embracing FFTs as opportunities for growth rather than moments of failure. So go ahead, take that leap, try something new, and know that it's okay to fall. What matters is how you pick yourself up and keep moving forward.

So how do you make room for FFTs? I am glad you asked. Let’s find ways to embrace that beginner within:

1. Try Something New: Step out of your comfort zone and try something you've never done before. Whether it's a new hobby, a new skill, or a new adventure, embrace the beginner mindset.

2. Celebrate Mistakes: Instead of dwelling on your failures, celebrate them as opportunities for growth. Every mistake is a lesson learned and a step forward.

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself in moments of struggle. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer to a friend facing a challenge.

4. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community who celebrates your successes and uplifts you through your failures. You don't have to navigate FFTs alone.

Friends, FFTs are an inevitable part of life. They remind us that growth is messy, imperfect, and oh so beautiful. So, the next time you find yourself facing a new challenge or trying something for the first time, embrace it with open arms. Lean into the discomfort, embrace the unknown, and trust in the journey. After all, it's the FFTs that make life truly extraordinary (or at the very least, very memorable)

Here and headed into my very own FFT on Monday,

Lisa