What? I can just start over?

I don't know about you, but I have always had this annoying idea that I have to finish what I start. I mean, most of the time, that is a good idea, but sometimes it is really disheartening. I can get really down on myself when I get distracted or stuck, and then I feel guilty for taking a break or just not finishing a project. The weight of having to finish EVERYTHING I start has meant that I have been hesitant to start new things.

How does this relate to video games? Well, I recently learned that it's ok to NOT finish a game. AND I learned that you can just start over...

WHAT?!?! Start over?

Well, I tried it. I also play Hollow Knight, which is a classic, really hard, 2D platformer. This was the first one I ever played in this style, and it has taught me a LOT.

I played regularly for several months, and got completely stuck, burnt out on it, and quit. Last week, I missed it, so I started over. I was shocked by how easy it was, and how far I got in the first hour. For comparison, the first time I played, it took me over two hours to beat the "Bonker Bug." This time I beat it in UNDER A MINUTE!  

Here's the clip.

I share this because it's one of those unexpected, not obvious lessons of gaming. I've learned:

1. It's ok to take a break.

2. It's ok to start over.

3. I can actually learn and improve.

For my perfectionist self, these are Very Valuable. I'm really glad that my kid has gotten these lessons already.