At 58, Adrian Chiles has taken a bold step towards self-improvement by purchasing his very first drill. Tired of relying on others for basic home repairs, he’s eager to learn the art of DIY, even if it means navigating some uncharted territory. As he prepares to tackle simple tasks, Chiles reflects on his lifelong hesitance around practical skills and what it means to finally take charge of his own home.
A Long-Awaited Purchase
Chiles’s journey begins with the acquisition of a bright yellow drill, a symbol of newfound determination. As he approaches his 59th birthday, he realises it’s time to confront a long-standing aversion to DIY projects. Growing up in the shadow of a more skilled brother, Chiles often found himself lacking in practical abilities, leading him to feel somewhat inferior in that arena.
“I’ve grown tired of feeling helpless,” he admits. “It’s not about masculinity; it’s simply about being bored with my own limitations.” With this in mind, he resolved to take the plunge into the world of home improvement – starting with the basic act of drilling a hole.
The Reality of DIY
During his visit to the local hardware store, Chiles was prompted to consider the purpose of his new tool. He confesses that while he struggled to articulate his deeper motivations, he ultimately just wanted to master the art of drilling. The shop assistant’s bemusement was met with a purchase: a drill and a case containing a staggering array of over a hundred bits.
“Imagine the possibilities,” he muses, joking that his home may soon resemble a piece of Swiss cheese with all the holes he plans to create.
However, the excitement of ownership soon faced the reality of execution. After a week of contemplating his drill, he decided to put it to use by installing a rail that required screws to be fastened to a wall. Dread filled him as the delivery approached, prompting him to call upon his friend Gary, a seasoned builder, for guidance.
The Learning Curve
Under Gary’s tutelage, Chiles discovered the ingenious nature of special screws designed for hollow walls, which expand like umbrellas once inserted. Yet, his initial triumph quickly turned to frustration when he realised he had misaligned the plates for the rail. Attempting to remove the screws proved futile, as the umbrella mechanism rendered them immovable.
Despite this rocky start, Chiles remains optimistic. “It might have been a messy beginning, but it’s a beginning nonetheless,” he reflects, having already utilised two of his hundred bits. The project may not have gone as planned, but the mere act of attempting to take control of his home has been empowering.
Why it Matters
Chiles’s journey into the world of DIY transcends mere home repairs; it represents a significant step towards personal growth and self-empowerment. In a society that often equates competence in practical skills with independence and confidence, his story resonates with many who may feel similarly daunted by the prospect of tackling DIY tasks. By confronting his fears and taking the initiative, Chiles not only challenges stereotypes around age and ability but also inspires others to take ownership of their skills, no matter how basic they may seem.
