Let Amazing Things Happen
I apologize for the blogging hiatus. The past month was pretty busy with events and transitions. I finally have a moment to take in everything, process what it means to me and share with you. The best way I can sum up everything is with this sentence:
When you push past fear, amazing things happen.
I knew this sentiment was how I wanted to challenge myself in 2017. However, I didn’t understand the full benefits of a new perspective until this past month.
For instance, back in January I joined Army of Sass; a 10 week burlesque style dance program (future post coming soon). At the end of the semester, all students can take part in 4 dance shows. Apart from school plays, I never performed in public, so the idea was both exciting and scary to me. To add to this, everyone had to wear stockings, garters and nothing but underwear on stage. TERRIFYING!
I knew I wanted to do the shows, but the week before I started to experience nerves. I knew I was being silly, because I knew my choreography and my friends and family were so supportive. What was the worst that could happen? I told myself if I messed up, there were 3 other shows to make it up. Luckily, nothing went wrong and performing was one of the most exhilarating experiences.
Dancing aside, I recently applied this mantra to my career too. Like many people, there are times I suffer imposter syndrome. I passed on certain opportunities, because I felt I didn’t know enough or wasn’t good enough.
When I learned of a new opportunity with a reputable company that I admire, I had to take the chance. Applying for this company was too intimidating in the past. I had to ask myself why I thought that way. Was I scared of challenge? Or afraid to rise to the occasion? What was the worst that could happen? Halting my hesitation, I applied for the job. I’m happy to say I got it!
I realize the self doubt was only fear and that it held me back. No one likes to be the worst at something, to feel judged, vulnerable or uncertain. So, we “protect” ourselves. We tell ourselves “I can’t do that”, “I’m not ready”, “that’s too hard”, “I’m uncomfortable” or “that’s not for me.”
But are those statements true? Or are we scared? What’s the absolute worst thing that could happen?
As you can tell, the last question is the one I ask myself the most. Usually the answer is so minimal that I can’t hide behind old excuses.
So….
Fuck it.
Why not?
Just do it!
Whatever it is that’s holding you back, don’t say it, don’t let it. Don’t deny yourself a chance to experience something amazing. What’s the worst that could happen?
