When was the last time you did something that frightened you? I’m not necessarily talking about jumping out of a plane, but how about talking to your boss about a raise? Or snorkeling at night?
When we were in Moab a couple weeks ago, I learned so many life lessons including “Come Back to Yourself” and “Lessons from the Colorado River.” I also learned to push my limits but when you have had too much, it’s ok to say stop.
I love to ride my bike around Denver, on paved streets and sidewalks. I have never been off road, at all, on my bike.
Until a couple weeks ago, it had never interested me. I’m not sure if it is the Emergency Room Nurse in me that makes me hesitate wanting to ride a single track trail as I have seen plenty of people with broken this or that from wrecking. Maybe, it is the thought of all that road rash that I might get if I go down. Whatever the reason, I would always shy away from doing any mountain biking. It just always frightened me. In Moab, I did my first downhill ride. I have to be honest, I was nervous and scared going into it. I was worried about braking too hard, going over my handle bars and losing another tooth. I was nervous about going too fast, getting wobbly and crashing. I think the worst part for me was the cow grates. Anytime we came up to one, I would brake to slow down and make sure I was crossing them straight on.
Even though I had a lot of fear, I still wanted to try it as I made a promise to myself to do things that scare me. So I did. I donned my helmet. I tested a couple different bikes to see which one I felt most comfortable on, and off I went with my friends.
I’m not gonna lie, I could always be found in the back of the pack and I rode my brakes most of the time. In the end though, I did it! I pulled back into the house with everyone and honestly it wasn’t that bad. I would even do it again!
Then, I started to think about it. When was the last time I did something that I was afraid to do and then was disappointed or upset that I did it?
Never.
On the contrary, I am proud that I did it. I feel a sense of accomplishment and that, in turn, validates my self confidence and my self worth. Even if I had some hiccups the first time, I know the next time will be better. I know I will be better next time.
What is something that you are afraid to do? Is it talking to your boss? Is it traveling to a different country? Do what I do to help you get over your fears. Talk to people who have done it before. Get some pointers from those who know. Talk to them about your fears. They might have had the same fears.
Try out different approaches to see which one feels best to you. After talking to different people, I’m sure you will hear a bunch of different ways to do whatever you’re fearful of. Think about it, figure out what feels best to you.
I find that if you can do it with friends that is the best motivator. They will keep you going and support you along the way.
Then just do it!! It might be scary at first, but find some fun along the way.
Even if you don’t ever want to do it again you can say you did it and you conquered a fear!!
Next up for me, snorkeling at night! Wish me luck!!
So what is it? What scares you? Drop me a line on social media or an email at Steph@KoruLifeCoaching.com, I would love to hear about. I would love to support you along the way.
Have you done something recently that scared you? Tell me!! I would love to share in your accomplishment!
