Keep Going! Why You Shouldn’t Let Anything (or Anyone) Stop You From Learning New DIY Skills
Let’s be real for a second—stepping into the DIY world can feel super intimidating. There’s so much to learn, and it’s easy to feel like you’re behind before you’ve even started. But here’s the thing: every expert started as a beginner. They didn’t wake up one day knowing how to use every tool or perfectly execute a project. They started where you are—curious, eager, and maybe a little nervous. And guess what? You’re already doing something amazing just by being here, ready to learn.
Don’t Let the Naysayers Get You Down
There will always be people who doubt you—trolls on the internet, judgmental friends, or even that annoying little voice in your own head. Ignore them. The truth is, the only way to improve is to try, stumble, and try again. Every mistake you make is a step forward because it means you’re learning. Even when things don’t turn out the way you hoped, you’re still miles ahead of where you were when you started.
And about those trolls? Let them chatter. You’re the one building, creating, and learning. They’re just... typing.
Celebrate Every Win (Big or Small)
Your first DIY project might not be Pinterest-perfect, but who cares? Celebrate every single win, no matter how small. Updated an outlet cover? Amazing! Painted a wall (and got paint on your elbows and in your hair)? Still counts as a win!
It’s those small steps—learning how to sand properly, figuring out how to use a brad nailer, or just measuring correctly—that build up over time. Progress is what matters, not perfection. Perfection, if it ever comes, is way down the road. And honestly? Progress is a lot more fun. Don’t ask me how long it took me and Tim (with help from a mathematician DIY-er friend) to figure out how to create a dodecagon from oak boards to frame out a 56 inch circle table top. HA.
Learning IS Doing
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you have to know everything before you start. You don’t. Learning is doing. Watching a tutorial? That’s learning. Reading about materials? That’s learning. Picking up a tool for the first time and figuring out how it works? Absolutely learning. Every small step you take counts, and each one gets you closer to where you want to be.
Stumbles Are Part of the Process
Let me tell you a little secret: even the most seasoned DIYers mess up. I’ve cut boards too short (more times than I’d like to admit), drilled holes in the wrong places, and spent way too long fixing my own mistakes. But that’s part of the process! Stumbles aren’t failures—they’re proof that you’re trying. And every time you stumble, you’re learning what not to do next time (and may be able to help others to not make those mistakes as well).
Practice Makes Progress
The saying “practice makes perfect” gets thrown around a lot, but let’s be honest—perfection is overrated. What really matters is progress. Every time you pick up a tool, tackle a new project, or learn a new skill, you’re getting better. Your confidence will grow with every project, and one day, you’ll look back and marvel at how far you’ve come.
Keep Stepping Forward
The best advice I can give you is this: just keep stepping forward. Even if it’s a small step, it’s still progress. Don’t let fear, mistakes, or naysayers hold you back or push you in the wrong direction. Be proud of what you’re accomplishing, even if it’s just the first step of learning.
You’ve got this, and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way. Now go grab that hammer, paintbrush, or measuring tape and get started. You’re going to do amazing things!
