What Facing My Fear Taught Me

So I did it. I opened myself raw to the possibility of being ridiculed and humiliated and you know what? It ain’t so bad. Sure, I haven’t seen the footage yet and won’t see it until some time next year, but so far so good. My being is intact.

Prior to yesterday, I’d often wondered in judgement why some people go on reality shows. While I still don’t completely understand it, I did come out with a fresh perspective.

I came out thinking that maybe not everybody did it for fame or money. Maybe some like myself, did it to conquer their fears.

Although I shriveled up like a shrinking violet in the eye of a camera and fuzzy microphone, I still stood up straight and smiled. It took every ounce of courage to fight my inner desire to run.

This wasn’t the first time I’ve been camera. Actually it’s my third, but this one was a lot harder. Instead of being a passerby, this one involved me speaking on camera, answering spontaneous questions. Two things I detest. Yet, I found the courage to do it and felt empowered by it.

I wish everyone had the experience to challenge themselves and take the opportunity to try something new or face a fear. Whether it’s talking in front of hundreds of people or traveling to a new country, I think what you get when you face your fears is a gift worth receiving. The experience is inspiring, quite invigorating and in the end invites more positive opportunities.

Besides re-confirming my belief that I will never be an actor, it showed me that I’m capable of quite a lot. And that’s an invaluable lesson, one that I would have missed had I given in to the fear and chose safety and comfort instead.

Have you done anything that scared you lately? If so, I’d love to hear it.