We get tired of disempowering emotions that make us feel we aren’t ready for what’s before us. At various points in our lives, Nike’s big bold challenge to just do it has been taken up as our rallying cry. Adopting our Wonder Woman pose and stepping out like a Warrior is just the little push we need to soar toward our destiny.
Some are brought up to be overly cautious and fearful. They believe that disaster lurks behind even the thought of stepping outside their comfort zone. How do we encourage each other to look beyond the very limitations we have accepted about ourselves?
When I attended a life mastery course over twenty years ago, I told myself that those “crazy, supposedly life changing activities” weren’t for me. I would participate in the activities that made me feel safe and not challenged, which immediately ruled out jumping off a telephone pole or walking on hot coals. I would cheer my team on, but I certainly knew my boundaries.
The moment I was honest with myself, I knew I was looking up at a mountain I didn’t believe I could climb – I was afraid. We’ve all been there.
In that next moment, I changed my mind and said yes. Harnessed and ready to go, I took one determined foothold at a time, and affirmed my courage. I had absolutely no fear. At the top of the pole, I held the rope connected to my harness and ever so carefully pulled myself up to the pole top that was just big enough for my two feet. As I lifted my hands out horizontally to celebrate my triumph, I jumped slightly ahead of when I had intended to do so. I still had the rope in my hand, and the cardinal rule was, make sure you let go of the rope before you jump.
When you garner the courage, and set out, make sure you also consciously let go of any perceived safety nets. This allows you to fully face the tasks (and the instructions!) before you.
Jump with confidence, courage, and remember to let go of the rope!
