Unfolded: Why “Trying” Is the Courageous Middle Step Toward Transformation

Every dream begins with imagination. It often continues through playful experimentation. But eventually, there comes a moment when practice must take on intention. That’s where “try” enters the story.

In this episode of The Leadership Vision Podcast, host Nathan Freeburg is joined by Dr. Linda and Brian Schubring to unpack Chapter 3 of their book Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane. Together, they explore why trying is the critical middle ground between dreaming and fulfilling a vision.

Why “Try” Matters

Dr. Linda explains:

“The dreams that actually come true are those that step forward and try. It’s not just about dreaming or playing—it’s about practice with intention.”

While dreaming unlocks imagination and play disguises practice as joy, “try” is where practice gets real. It’s no longer messing around on the keyboard—it’s preparing for the audition. It’s stepping closer to the moment that matters.

Brian frames this stage as “the messy middle”—a place where many people give up. Here, doubt, self-criticism, and outside voices often grow louder. But it’s also where courage begins to build.

The Messy Middle

The “try” chapter is about living in full color. As Linda puts it, all senses become heightened—encouragement feels stronger, but so does shame, doubt, and judgment. That tension can make leaders want to give up.

But Brian reframes those difficult feelings:

“The self-doubt and shame are indications that we’re making progress. They’re signs we’re about to change again.”

Trying is uncomfortable, sometimes even painful. But discomfort isn’t failure—it’s part of the process of transformation.

The Role of Community

Another key element of trying is community. We need others to encourage, reflect, and sometimes challenge us. But we also need discernment. Not every voice is helpful. As Brian shares,

“Some friendships and voices will prove supportive in this stage. Others won’t—and that’s okay.”

Leaders can fall into the trap of “lawnmower helpers”—people so eager to help that they remove all obstacles, robbing us of the growth that comes from navigating challenges ourselves. A healthy community means giving space for others to try, fail, and learn from their mistakes.

Embracing Failure as Forward Movement

Trying inevitably leads to setbacks. The book’s character OC learns this firsthand when her attempt at flying with mismatched wings and a borrowed strategy ends in failure. Yet even in failure, there is progress.

As Brian explains:

“Sometimes we think we’re at the end when we’re really only halfway there. Those false starts are still valuable—they’re signs the dream is alive and progress is happening.”

Failure isn’t final—it’s a dress rehearsal, a scrimmage preparing us for the real thing.

Self-Compassion and Courage

The chapter begins with the gentle reminder from Owl: “Be gentle to yourself.” Trying requires self-compassion. Leaders often disqualify themselves by labeling doubt as imposter syndrome. But as Linda reframes:

“It’s not imposter syndrome—it’s try! It’s practice with intention. You’re learning, asking for help, and stepping closer to your dream.”

Ultimately, trying is about courage—the courage to show up, to fail, to reshape, and to try again.

Closing Reflection and Action Steps

Nathan reads:

“Trying isn’t about getting it right, it’s about movement… trusting that every step, even the wobbly, painful ones, leads us closer to our true shape.”

This chapter is about building the courage to try again and again. The dream doesn’t come alive just by thinking about it, but by taking it into the playground and making it happen.

ACTION STEPS for Listeners

1. Journal Prompt: Where in your life are you being invited to try something new, even if it feels scary?
2. Reach Out: Ask one person for help with something you’ve been trying to do alone.
3. Reflect: Write a short note to your past self—what do you appreciate about all the times you tried, even if you didn’t “succeed”?