Beginner's Pluck

October 7, 2019
Bohannon’s striking debut asks readers to allow themselves to fail mightily in order to embrace their inner beginner and capture the plucky energy that comes with initial interest in an activity. To that end, Bohannon introduces key principles: own one’s average, stop trying to “find your passion”; dream small (because small steps can lead to great journeys), and choose curiosity over criticism, among others. She recommends making promises as a good way to track oneself, and writes that most people feel hindered by fear of rejection and should be more willing to accept help. To illustrate her axioms, such as “Stop, Drop, and WOW” (giving yourself a free moment to pause and be grateful) and “dream to attract your team,” she shares stories from her career, which moved from studying journalism to starting a sandal company dedicated to women’s rights. Infusing the text is the same beginner’s fervor Bohannon champions: “There is no secret.... You just have to be brave enough to listen to the whisper that says, ‘Keep going.’ ” Those looking for inspiration after an unsuccessful endeavor, or simply looking for quick self-care tips, will relish Bohannon’s comforting, hopeful voice.