Bet small where you could win big. Losing a little to learn a lot is a good trade.

Some chances cost almost nothing to take and could change a whole year. Trying out for the team, emailing someone whose work you like, entering the contest, asking the question in class: the downside is a bruised afternoon, and the upside is large and unknown. People skip these because a small loss feels louder in the moment than a big maybe.

Pick one cheap attempt this week and actually make it. Say out loud what it costs you if it goes badly, in hours and in embarrassment. When the honest answer is small, that is your sign to go.