“Always be a beginner at something.” Damon Brown
Last week I attended a book launch party and met Damon Brown, author, consultant, and entrepreneur. I bought his new book, Bring Your Worth, and also an earlier release, The Ultimate Bite-Sized Entrepreneur Trilogy. A veteran of multiple start-ups, Brown offers advice and tips to non-traditional entrepreneurs.
I do not think of myself as entrepreneurial in the least, but I’ve just read some great advice. In a chapter called “After the Win” Brown points out the vulnerability that follows a victory and cautions: “Always be a beginner at something.” That’s a message I need to hear, and I heard it loud and clear.
Last week for a family birthday I made this cake, slightly adapted from Nigella Lawson’s version. It was wonderful. I knew it would be wonderful, since I’ve made it multiple times. Last night for a dinner with friends I served “Vaguely Vietnamese” pork tacos from a NYT recipe. Delicious, but no surprises.
It makes me happy to do something well, and often that something is cooking/entertaining. For a few weeks I want to be a beginner more often. Maybe new recipes and new ingredients. Maybe more adventurous guest lists. Maybe something non-cooking-related. Not crazy things (I’m not an athlete and I don’t enjoy watching sports) . Not things that feel like work. Fun things.
Suggestions welcome.