How to Get Started (Even When You Want Everything Perfect)

If you’ve ever wondered how to get started on something new when you don’t feel ready, you’re not alone. For years, I believed everything needed to be perfectly planned before I could begin. Vacations, projects, even creative ideas — I wanted every detail mapped out.

When my husband and I traveled to Australia early in our marriage, I planned our entire camper‑van route from Brisbane to Sydney. Before smartphones, that level of planning felt responsible. But it also meant there was no room for rest, spontaneity, or changing our minds. If we didn’t follow the plan, I felt guilty — like we were missing something.

After having kids, I realized the pressure to “do it right” was making things less fun for me. I still like knowing where we’ll stay, but now I build in space to explore, shift, and breathe. I’m learning that getting started doesn’t require perfection — just willingness.

How I Got Started With My Podcast (Before I Felt Ready)

The same lesson showed up when I decided to start a podcast. I had no idea what I was doing. People asked questions I hadn’t even considered. I recorded my first trailer more times than I want to admit. But my family cheered me on, and I kept going.

Now, even just a few episodes in, it’s getting easier and faster. On recording days, I can hardly sleep because I’m buzzing with ideas. That’s the magic of starting — momentum only shows up once you move.

Learning is in the Doing

One thing I’ve learned: my episodes are smoother when I use a script. I want the podcast to feel conversational, but right now, structure helps me reduce filler words and stay focused. By the end of the year, after 52 episodes, I know I’ll be more comfortable going off the cuff — but only if I keep practicing.

We forget that being new at something is normal. Of course you’re not great at first. You’re learning. That’s the point.

Creativity Helps Us Start More Easily

Homeschooling has reminded me how powerful it is to try new things without pressure. My kids and I have been painting and experimenting with different art mediums — something I hadn’t done in years. Growing up, my mom encouraged creativity for the sake of play, not productivity.

Now our whole family does the art projects together. It’s messy, fun, and freeing. And it helps all of us approach harder subjects with more patience. When you practice being a beginner in one area, it becomes easier to start in others.

Let It Be Messy — and Just Begin

If you’re trying to figure out how to get started, here’s my best advice: begin before you feel ready. Let it be imperfect. Let yourself learn. The clarity and confidence you’re waiting for only show up once you’re already moving.

Share in the comments what you’re thinking about starting — and tell me if you’d be interested in a creative workshop where we explore these ideas together.