Starting Anything is Awkward

And That’s a Good Thing

Let’s be honest - starting something new whether it’s launching a project, stepping into a new leadership role, joining a workshop, or even speaking up in a meeting - often feels awkward. Your voice wobbles. Your confidence shakes. Your inner critic says, “This feels weird. You are not ready.”

But here’s the truth no one tells you loud enough: awkwardness is a sign of growth. And if you learn to embrace it, you will access the kind of clarity, confidence, and momentum most people never reach.

The Awkward Beginning: A Natural Part of Mastery

In the Leadology framework, we teach that self-mastery begins where comfort ends. That first awkward step is not a failure - it’s feedback. It’s your nervous system learning, your identity expanding, your courage showing up before your competence does.

Think about your first:

• Setting boundaries

• Team presentation

• Tough feedback conversation

• Gym workout

• Deep meditation

It probably felt clunky or vulnerable. That’s the nature of beginnings. Even science backs this - neuroscience shows that our brains fire new neural pathways during these “cringe” moments. Awkwardness is a neurological signal that you’re rewiring habits, identity, and patterns.

Ancient Wisdom on Awkwardness

In the Ashtavakra Gita, there’s a powerful reminder: “The fool who knows he is a fool is wise. The fool who thinks he is wise is a fool indeed.”

This isn’t just humility, it’s freedom. When you admit you are new, not polished, or even a bit shaky, you become open to true learning.

Discomfort is a sign of transformation. Don’t run from it.

Whether it’s starting a meditation practice or running your first workshop, the awkwardness you feel is not a warning, it’s an invitation.

How to Ace the Awkwardness

Here are five practical tools you can apply starting today:

1. Name It, Don’t Shame It

Awkwardness becomes heavier when you try to hide it. Instead, name it out loud: “This feels new for me.” Owning your discomfort builds authenticity and connection - two of Leadology’s core values.

2. Anchor into Purpose

Ask: Why am I doing this? When your intention is strong (to grow, to lead with integrity), the temporary awkwardness becomes easier to carry.

3. Breathe Through It

Use a simple breathwork tool like Box Breathing (4-4-4-4) to calm your nervous system. This centres you and keeps the fight-or-flight response in check.

4. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Track your courage, not just your results. Did you show up? Did you try something new? That’s the real metric of mastery.

5. Celebrate the ‘Cringe’

Laugh at the stumbles. Share them with others. Awkwardness becomes lighter when you bring humour and humility into the journey.

From Hesitation to Flow

One of our Leadology clients, a senior engineer turned team leader, once said: “The first time I facilitated a workshop, I kept forgetting what I planned to say. I was sweating, awkward, and almost bailed.”

Two months later, that same client was confidently leading sessions and mentoring others.

What changed? Not the absence of awkwardness but his relationship with it. He used the discomfort as fuel to practise, reflect, and grow.

Svadhyaya: The Art of Self-Reflection

Svadhyaya means self-study or self-reflection. It’s about more than just introspection; it's about examining your thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs to gain a deeper understanding of your true nature. Engaging in self-reflection can bring clarity, promote growth, and help you align with your core values and goals.

Below are questions and activities designed to guide you on this journey toward greater clarity, growth, and self-awareness.