I’m not good at this. But I’m going to try it anyway.

I don’t know where to find that. But I don’t mind looking.

I don’t know anything about this. But I can find out.

I’ve never done it before. But let’s see how it goes.

I don’t think I can pull this off alone. Can you help me?

Starting at zero can be deflating for anyone, especially artists of a certain age who have already been through the ringer and have the scars to show for it. But making any sort of lasting impact usually requires a leveling-up leap we don’t feel 100% ready for.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting a new job, or attempting a new approach in relationships I try to remember the following:

1. When you’re taking a risk and starting something new, any bit of progress is a 100% improvement.

2. When you’re at the starting line, the first step is the only step that counts.

3. Being humbled brings us back to our humanity, driving us to take a more compassionate perspective toward ourselves and others.