Being an Amateur: Embracing the Learning Mindset

For many, the word "amateur" carries a sense of inadequacy or lack of skill. For me, though, it has become a way to approach life with curiosity and openness. Being an amateur is not about having all the answers; it’s about being willing to learn and grow without the pressure of being perfect.

I’ve found that embracing this mindset has helped me in so many areas—from business to parenting to personal development. Here are some reflections on why I believe being an amateur is worth celebrating.

1. The Freedom to Explore

One of the best things about being an amateur is that there are no expectations to get everything right. You can experiment, try new things, and enjoy the process without worrying about judgment.

My Journey

When I started learning Spanish, I obviously wasn’t good at it. But I didn’t let that stop me. Over time, those small efforts added up. Now, I’ve maintained a streak on Duolingo for over 1400 days—not because I’m a perfectionist, but because I’ve learned to enjoy the journey and the little progress.

2. Progress Over Perfection

As an amateur, it’s easier to focus on making progress rather than being perfect. That mindset has been freeing for me because it removes the fear of failure. Instead of seeing mistakes as setbacks, I’ve learned to treat them as opportunities to grow.

Lessons from Failure

Take Waakeb, my e-commerce startup that didn’t succeed. While it was disappointing, it taught me valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. Looking back, I’m grateful for the experience because it shaped how I approach new challenges today.

3. Staying Curious

Being an amateur means approaching things with a beginner’s mindset—asking questions, being open to feedback, and staying curious. I’ve found that this curiosity often leads to unexpected insights and ideas.

In Practice

When I started working on Nafseeti, I knew little about creating a platform for mental health awareness. But by research, seeking advice, and being willing to learn, I’ve been able to take small steps toward building something meaningful. It’s still a work in progress, but that’s part of the beauty of being an amateur.

4. The Importance of Showing Up

One thing I’ve learned is that being consistent matters more than being perfect. Amateurs thrive because they keep showing up, even when they don’t feel ready.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Whether it’s writing a blog post, brainstorming ideas for Oghneeti, or simply spending time with my family, I’ve found that showing up consistently—even in small ways—creates momentum over time. It’s not always about big leaps; sometimes, it’s just about taking the next step.

5. Finding Joy in Learning

At its core, being an amateur is about embracing the joy of learning. It’s about celebrating progress, no matter how small, and finding meaning in the process rather than the outcome.

Celebrating Milestones

I find so much joy in the little wins—whether it’s seeing a new follower to Nafseeti, watching my son reach a milestone, or getting positive feedback from a customer at Waakeb. These moments remind me why I love being on this journey.

Final Thoughts

Being an amateur doesn’t mean you don’t know anything—it means you’re willing to learn. It’s about staying curious, embracing progress over perfection, and showing up consistently. For me, it’s been a mindset that has made life richer and more rewarding.

So if you ever feel like an amateur, know that it’s not a limitation. It’s a gift. Keep learning, keep growing, and enjoy the process—because that’s where the real magic happens.