Doing What Scares You

It’s fascinating how we often know the next step in our personal journeys, even if fear holds us back.

For instance, at 16, I was eager to land a summer job. The thought of applying, crafting a CV, and attending interviews was intimidating. Yet, each step I took, despite the nerves, ultimately led to my first job opportunity in a supermarket. This experience taught me invaluable lessons about the workplace and myself.

Fast forward four years, and I found myself in my third year of university, having just completed my first software engineering internship. Recognizing it wasn’t the right fit, I sought a new opportunity with a major tech firm in Dublin, Ireland. The prospect of relocating to a new city where I knew no one was daunting, but I understood it was the right move for my career.

Excitement accompanied my fears, reminding me that often, we are thrilled by the opportunities we desire. This internship became a pivotal moment in my career, allowing me to forge lasting friendships and navigate the challenges of living abroad.

Beyond Career Growth

I’ve always been passionate about sports and fitness. While in Dublin, I discovered a yoga class that piqued my interest. Initially, I hesitated—would I be the only guy there? Would I feel out of place? However, I decided to push through my fears. After all, in a new city, I had little to lose.

To my surprise, the class was predominantly female, but the experience was rewarding. The instructor was welcoming, and I learned the fundamentals of yoga, which I continue to practice today. The mindfulness and improved flexibility have greatly benefited my overall well-being.

The next steps in your journey are often clear. While nerves and apprehension are natural, waiting for the perfect moment can lead to missed opportunities.

Understanding Failure

All the experiences I shared had positive outcomes, but that’s not always the case. Stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to setbacks.

For instance, confessing feelings to a friend may not yield the desired response. While it can sting, you gain clarity and can move forward.

Similarly, if your first live performance with a band falls flat, it might be embarrassing, but it’s a chance to learn and improve. If you hadn’t taken the stage, you’d still be standing still.

In truth, failure often teaches us more than success ever could. The risks of action come with the possibility of failure, but inaction guarantees stagnation.

Final Thoughts

So, I encourage you to reflect:

“Imagine how we would be if we were less afraid.”

— Charlie Mackesy, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse

Best of luck on your personal journeys, friends.

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