The other day a client of mine called me for some cooking advice.  She told me that she's cooking a fillet of beef and needs to know how.  I asked her if the beef was trimmed and tied and she enthusiastically said "yes" and explained that she paid way too much for it yet she felt it was worth it.  As I gave her instructions I couldn't help thinking the whole time that she simply needs to be fearless when cooking her fillet and everything will be just fine. 

I've been reading Julia Childs' memoirs in My Life in France.  In it she wrote about a terrible meal she cooked and unapologetically served to her friend.  The gist of the passage from what I've gathered, was that there was no need for self deprecation as she was the one in charge and she stood by her food.  Let me begin by saying "I love Julia", however for some reason it did not sit well with me.  As a professional cook, I am obviously a people pleaser and can not bear to serve a bad meal.  Don't get me wrong, there have been a few "not so great moments" in my career.  However, I've always found that a great attitude can go a long way and it can change one's perception; maybe that's what Julia meant.  Perhaps this is true with all things in life; has a positive outlook ever hurt anyone?  I think not. This made me think about cooking fearlessly. 

Be the master of your kitchen, stare doubt right in the eye and beat it back with your rolling pin.  What I mean by cooking fearlessly is that when you decide that you can cook something chances are you can.  I have never developed or started a new recipe with failure in mind.  Yes, at times recipes can seem a little intimidating but I promise you, your results will be far greater when you are fearless.  Who knows you may just surprise yourself and become your own version of Julia.