Do It Scared

Have you wanted to start something new … join a gym, go to a natural-food market, try a Pilates class … but you were scared of doing something wrong and looking out of place?

I get it. This past week I tried something different to build relationships with some new people. I thought I had prepared, but when I got to talking with them, within about 60 seconds I knew I was going to look foolish.

I felt uncomfortable and nervous. My face was blushed for the first 30 minutes. I also knew if I cut it short and left I would not build the relationships — and I would damage my confidence for the future.

I asked myself …

What’s the worst that can happen? I blush and look silly for a bit, they aren’t gracious, I learn something and life moves on.

What’s the best that can happen? I blush and look silly for a bit, we form a relationship, I get more comfortable and we have a great time.

When you are thinking of trying something new in your life — whether trying out a new class or ordering a healthy dish at a restaurant — do it even if you are scared.

Ask yourself: What’s the worst that can happen? If you can handle whatever that is (and I’ll bet you can), then do it. There’s a 99% chance (not a real statistic) it won’t be the worst. It will likely be closer to the best.

What finally happened for me? One person I really connected with by the end of an hour. Another person I never felt comfortable with and that’s ok.

You can fulfill your potential. Sometimes that means doing life scared.