Those who know you may have you typecast. They know your strengths and weaknesses. They know the hobbies you pursue, and the things you do professionally. They know your history.

Being able to define you is a comfort. There are labels that can be applied. Job titles. Vocations.

So when you try something new — something that doesn’t fit the known mold — you might meet resistance from others.

“Hmm. I didn’t know he was a singer.”

“That’s surprising. I didn’t know she was a writer. Has she written anything before?”

“He’s changing careers? Huh.”

The new thing might confuse your acquaintances. They might not know what to do with it.

Don’t let that stop you.

New adventures can start today, and they don’t have to relate to your past.

And when you’ve sung fifty songs, or written a dozen short stories, or celebrated an anniversary for your new business... no one will say, “Hmm. I had no idea…”

Your past doesn’t get to determine what you do today. You do.