Feel the fear

And do it anyway.

That was the title of a book several of us read two decades or so ago.  Because the book so succinctly laid out categories to consider, Susan Jeffers' thoughts became the basis for what would become our Goals Group. It's less about fear and more about goal setting though feeling the fear and doing it anyway is definitely a concept I endorse.  As long as I don't kill myself in the process.

As my son indicated at the time, "You don't have to actually read the book/just the title!"  I love it!

For us, Feel the Fear...was the beginning of an extraordinary adventure.  One which lead to stretching beyond what we ever thought possible. Each us spent time thinking about and preparing for our monthly meetings, adding to our list when another member's idea struck a resonant chord. Our lists were long and varied.

Once on paper and articulated in front of our small group, things magically began to fall in place. And because life often took over, we'd neglect referring to our personal list (not necessarily recommended) between sessions. Amazingly, but not surprisingly, what we had jotted down months before had taken on a life of its own.

I love that about the subconscious mind.

All of this leads to today's post:

Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway.  

What better way to life life.  I often forget that.  Today, dipping into frigid mountain waters/OK, I'm a total woos when it comes to cold water/I gave Stand Up Paddling (SUP) another try/after cracking several ribs on an earlier attempt a few years ago.  Not to worry if you, too, are considering this sport.  I'm the only one I know who did a face plant rather than falling sideways. I'm sure you'll be perfectly fine.

So for the past week I've been grabbing my paddle and board and taking a Big Step outside my comfort zone. It feels so good. Am I ready to take on The Big Waves? Not yet. But I'm thinking that this should be my next goal/the ocean.  Want to join me?

A small step toward pushing past one fear. Hmmmmm. What's next? And what would you add to your list?  Read the book and see if you aren't inspired to feel fear.  And do it anyway.