The first time I ever physically challenged myself, in spite of my fear, was when I leapt from a 50 ft pole during an event.
As our team walked to the site of the activity, I was quite comfortable as I had no intentions of even trying. I justified my decision by saying it was for “those people” and I wasn’t that crazy.
But then, as I observed a brave, heavy-set man attempt to do so, and as my heart trembled for him, something inside me said “Yes I can!”
It’s often said that if you do what you fear, you will eventually (if not instantaneously) lose that fear. And up until that point, I had been truly afraid…
They harnessed me up, read me the riot act about what to do and not do, and unbelievable as it may sound, I didn’t feel any fear as I climbed one rung at a time, reciting my mantra … I knew I would make it.
I reached the top and only then felt nervous as I navigated the last move to place both feet on the narrow circumference of the pole.
And then the unthinkable, as I stretched my arms out ready to jump, I lost my balance and fell forward, holding on to one of the harness attachments … the one I was meant to let go of before I jumped.
While this example is very literal, we all face metaphorical 50 ft poles which require a ‘leap of faith’ once you reach the top.
Do you relate to this? Can you remember a jump or quantum type leap from your personal or professional life? How far outside of your comfort zone did it take you?
While keeping one of these moments in mind, I invite you to consider these questions:
- If you didn’t make it, was the chance you took worth it?
- If you did make it, but hurt yourself in the process, would you do it again?
- If you overcame a fear, did it anyway and succeeded, how did that make you feel?
- Finally, if you didn’t try at all, was it a failure, or a pass until the next time?
“How would Mozella answer these questions about her first jump?” you may wonder.
While I hurt myself in the process, I also showed myself that I CAN push through my fears. For me, the pride I felt was empowering and the lessons stayed with me… which is why I’m telling you this story around 25 years later.
I leave you with two quotes that resonate with me, particularly in the moments I’m called to face my fears.
“Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Every great move forward in your life begins with a leap of faith, a step into the unknown.” – Brian Tracy
You can do it!
