The other day I was invited to dinner at our longtime friends Jen and Dave’s house, and when I arrived was steered right to their backyard to play a game of cornhole. 

They were surprised to learn that even though this game is super popular, I’ve never tried it.

Bean bag tosses at my grade five fun fair, yes.  

Next level cornhole, no.

According to the history of cornhole website, “Bars and pubs across the United States now host regular Cornhole tournaments. The favourite game has also seen significant usage in marketing, and custom Cornhole boards are regularly used at weddings and family events. There are even Cornhole classes being taught across the country.”

How do you play it?

Two boards are placed at an equal distance apart. Teams start at one end, alternating tosses with the objective being to land your bean bag or “cornhole” bag in the hole, or as close to it, garnering the most points.

It looked so fun, and I was keen to try it. How hard could it be? 

Trying a new game is a lot like adopting a new healthy habit.

When you see the situation with a beginner’s mindset, you approach it with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn, because it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and embrace the challenges that come with it.

It’s like embarking on an adventure into the unknown. You discover new gameplay mechanics, strategies, and rules that require adapting and learning.

With a beginner’s mindset, you’re not burdened by preconceived notions or expectations, allowing you to explore and discover something new along the journey.

Games, like healthy habits, often involve a learning curve, especially when new to them.

Embracing a beginner’s mindset means being patient with yourself as you navigate through the initial stages.

You understand that progress may be slow, but you can improve your skills and advance further with consistent effort and practice.

Trying a new game or habit can be challenging too, and setbacks are inevitable.

However, with a beginner’s mindset, you perceive challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Each failure becomes a lesson that propels you toward improvement. You develop resilience and determination to overcome obstacles.

And you know what. I didn’t suck at it!

That beginner’s mindset and some great tosses (and awful ones) left me wanting to play again.   

It’s time to set up one in our backyard! 

Play on!

Your friend and coach,

Janet  xox

PS: Whenever you are ready, here are three more ways I can help you PLAY for life:

1. Click here to grab a copy or listen to the Audible version of The Play Book: How To Get In The Habit Of Good Health
2. Join the FREE 7-Days of Healthy Habits Course that can help you starting today.
3. Want to work with me personally on your health while having fun? Click here to book a call.