I just got back from a free beginners tennis clinic; WOW, do I love free things! Not because I’m cheap (frugal is the word I prefer!) but I love to learn and am very appreciative to those who are willing to share.

I must say that in the past, I have had huge amounts of anxiety to go and do things like that by myself, but I have worked very hard over the years to force myself to do it and…………..guess what………..now it’s much easier and not so scary. [lesson learned #1]

Anyway, as I was looking around and “sizing up my competition”, I observed that there was quite a mix of people there – tall, short, overweight, thin, very fit looking, non-fit looking, various ages, different races, and different experience levels even though we were all “beginners”.  Of course, I am worried about how I am going to do when it’s my turn during the drills, but as I took my turn and then observed others as they took theirs, I became less concerned with how well I was doing (or not) and just noticed everyone’s different styles and abilities, how we cheered each other on or complimented a good shot. OK, so it’s not all about me, again! [lesson learned #2]

Exercise or making a choice to be more active is not discriminatory.  It doesn’t care how old, what race, what experience level, how tall or short you are.  Just take the first step and start – something, anything!. [lesson learned #3]

Although I have played a little tennis before, I have been reluctant to join a league.  This is the next best thing since it is all about people who want to learn and not necessarily cut my head off at the net, have fun and just play.  It doesn’t have to be stressful [lesson learned #4]

Always look out for opportunities in your community for activities that you may have an interest in.  Even if it’s a small interest or just curiosity.  Seek them out – they are probably there somewhere.    Who knows, you might just like it……….meet some new people……win at Wimbledon (OK, I’ll stop now).[lesson learned #5]