STOP THINKING ABOUT IT!

Dear reader,

Sometimes your mind works against you and what you think is careful deliberation is overthinking, and it's bound to slow you down.

I'm not a swimmer but I've attended swimming lessons for over 7 years. Now, you're probably thinking to yourself "You're just a poor student." and that might be the case, but the truth is, I can't swim yet because every time I'm near the deep end in a pool, my life flashes before my eyes and I begin to focus on the fact that I could drown and die.

There was this one time however when I managed to swim with ease and confidence in the deep end. I was eleven at the time and swimming lessons were compulsory and I dreaded them because my swimming coach always made us jump into the deep end and I hated it. Before this one day however, I had a dream at night, and I dreamt that I was the best swimmer during my lesson the next day, so when I went to swimming class the next day, I aced it! I wasn't focused on not drowning, I was focused in winning because in my dream, I saw myself winning so vividly, it was impossible not to try it out.

Unfortunately, by the next swimming lesson I was back to my overthinking, overcautious self and over 6 years down the line, I'm still stuck there (and with great shame I must admit "learn how to swim" has been on my bucket list for ages now).

We all have that thing, don't we? That dream project, that exciting trip, that bold career move we've been mulling over for months, maybe even years. We spend countless hours strategizing, planning, and dissecting every possible outcome. We wait for the "perfect" moment, for the fear to magically disappear, or for someone else to give us permission.

But what if the perfect moment never arrives? What if the fear is a permanent resident, a pesky companion that's always going to tag along? What if the greatest regret isn't failing, but never even trying?

It's time to embrace the discomfort. It's time to acknowledge the fear, take its hand, and step forward anyway. Because the truth is, most incredible things happen not in the absence of fear, but in its unwavering presence. Sometimes we just have to put the fear in our pocket and do whatever big thing we hope to do, afraid.

Here are 10 reasons why you should stop overthinking and just do it afraid:

1. Growth Lives Outside Your Comfort Zone: 

True personal growth rarely happens within the cozy confines of familiarity. Pushing past your comfort zone, even when terrified, is where you discover new strengths, resilience, and capabilities you never knew you possessed.

2. Overthinking Breeds Paralysis: 

The more you think, the less you do. Analysis paralysis is a real phenomenon that keeps countless dreams grounded. Breaking the cycle of overthinking starts with decisive action, no matter how small.

3. You'll Build Resilience:

 Every time you act despite your fear, you're essentially telling your brain, "I can handle this." This builds a powerful mental muscle that helps you face future challenges with greater courage and determination.

4. Regret is a Heavier Burden Than Failure: 

Looking back and wishing you'd tried is a far more painful experience than failing and knowing you gave it your all. Embrace the possibility of failure as a learning opportunity, not an end.

5. The "Perfect" Moment Doesn't Exist:

 Waiting for everything to align perfectly is a fool's errand. Life is messy, unpredictable, and rarely ideal. The best time to start is now, with the resources and circumstances you have.

6. You'll Inspire Others: 

When you take that leap of faith, you not only empower yourself but also subtly encourage those around you to do the same. Your courage can be a beacon for others who are also grappling with their own fears.

7. You'll Discover Hidden Talents: 

Trying new things, even when scary, often uncovers skills and passions you never knew you possessed. You might stumble upon a new hobby, a lucrative talent, or a fulfilling purpose.

8. Life is Short – Don't Waste It Waiting: 

Time is a finite resource. Don't let precious moments slip away while you're caught in a loop of indecision. Live boldly, experience fully, and make memories.

9. The Anticipation is Often Worse Than the Reality: 

The fear of the unknown can be far more daunting than the actual experience itself. Once you take the first step, the anxiety often dissipates, replaced by a sense of accomplishment or exciting challenge.

10. You Deserve to Live Your Dreams:

 Your aspirations are valid. Your desires are worthy of pursuit. Don't let fear dictate the narrative of your life. You deserve to chase what sets your soul on fire, even if you have to do it with trembling hands and a pounding heart.

So, what's that thing you've been putting off? Who's that one person you've wanted to talk to forever but never mustered the courage?

Take a deep breath.

Acknowledge the fear.

And then, just do it afraid.

Confidence comes from competence, and competence comes from action.

Regret is a heavier burden than failure.

The rewards of a life lived boldly far outweigh the comfort of staying safe. Your mind will always crave the safety of familiarity and sometimes, fear will cripple you as your mind's attempt to keep you safe from novelty. So, it's up to you to decide that it's time to take the bold step. Control your fear, don't let it control you. You'll be surprised by all the great things you can achieve.

love,

Me <3

P.S.: It always gets better and love, the real kind, always wins.