Don't be afraid

The unknown is frightening. Not knowing what to expect, is the reason a lot of people avoid trying new things. I have been through periods in my life where I have stayed with the safe option. I didn’t take chances and I certainly didn’t try new things. Looking back, I think that's a sad existence. I have learned to embrace the unfamiliar. I approach new things with passion and excitement. Now, we all are creatures of habit and sometimes there is nothing wrong with routine.  The problem is when you stop exploring because you're afraid of the unknown.

When I entered my first race I was petrified. I didn’t know what to expect and what was going to happen. Sure, I had run the distance but I was still new to running. Of course after I did it, I was hooked. I am grateful that I didn’t let my fear keep me from entering that first race. My own anxiety could have prevented me from finding one of the things that makes me happy. This moment of embracing my fear led me to a snowball effect in my life.

When I went through my divorce, I was afraid. I didn’t know what to expect. I didn't know how hard it would be to be a single mom. I didn’t know how to deal with the drama that was inevitable in divorce. But honestly, it was one of the best decisions I have made. I took my own happiness into my hands. I took back control. I am so much happier. My only regret is that I lived a lot of years in an existence I didn’t like simply because it was comfortable and easy.

When I met Jackie, I was scared. Never had I been so attracted to someone. Besides the fact that that someone was a woman; the feelings I had were completely unfamiliar. I had spent so many nights speculating what my life would be like if everyone knew; if she knew how I felt. That fear engulfed me for nearly two years before I finally just embraced the unknown. I am so unbelievably glad I did. The unknown ended up being so wonderful.

I use those examples because; some of the scariest experiences of my life led to something amazing. I will never spend my life unhappy because I'm afraid of the unknown. Trying new things is what life is all about. Trying new things is how I found happiness.

So, stop being scared. Better yet, embrace the fear! Try something you have always wanted to but have been afraid. Go somewhere you always wanted to go. Make big changes you have been avoiding because of fear. This life we have is so incredibly short; enjoy it. Do something that scares you!