Embracing Life's Adventures: Chasing Dreams and Conquering Fears

Two lines that have affected the things I do: 'Do it scared.' 'Do it just to say you did it.'"

Life is an ever-changing journey that continually reshapes our outlook as we age. It's funny how repeated messages of difficulty, fear, and wrongness can take root in our minds, eventually becoming our perceived truths.

These two lines, however, have been the catalysts behind my most exhilarating experiences. They've empowered me to embark on my first solo flight, traverse the globe, leap off cliffs, ride a motorcycle down a mountain with a man I met just hours prior, launch my own business, and make countless other strides. Every single time, I've been met with a profound sense of vitality and freedom. The surge of adrenaline, the self-assuredness to tackle the challenge, and the euphoric blend of excitement and anxiety have merged to create a tapestry of unforgettable memories.

I understand that these lines might not be enough to propel everyone into action, to coax them into embracing risk and facing their fears head-on. And that's perfectly okay. What's crucial is the relentless pursuit of reasons to step beyond comfort zones, to shatter the confines of our minds. It's about finding motivations to chase the life we yearn for, while time is still on our side.

Remember back to our childhoods, when envisioning grandiose dreams was effortless. "I'll reside in a castle, I'll slay dragons…" Our conviction in making these dreams realities was unwavering. But as the years pass, we begin to grasp the unattainability of some dreams, and our once-shining spirit diminishes slightly. External voices further dampen our hope, nudging us closer to extinguishing our dreams entirely. Yet, the day we cease to dream is the day we relinquish the impetus to try. And when we stop striving for a life worth living, a piece of our soul withers away.

I've been fortunate to encounter conversations, reflections, and circumstances that have imprinted upon me in a timely manner. A poignant exchange with my father, mere months before his passing, cast life in a new light. His words compelled me to ponder who I aspired to be in this world, what truly held value for me, and why. He recounted the moments that had left an indelible mark on his life's canvas. And amid those recollections, it was evident that he'd crafted a legacy as a sincerely good man. His compassion for those in need, his benevolent acts, and the cocoon of familial love that enveloped him were the threads woven into his narrative. But interwoven with these were his monumental accomplishments, like winning the lottery and founding a business.

Of course, I'm not suggesting everyone embark on risky ventures or wager their livelihoods on a lottery ticket. Yet, the essence lies in believing in yourself, in destiny, or in a higher power—any reason that propels you towards the aspirations that, when your time comes, will leave you with a sense of fulfillment. These cherished memories may also inspire others to chase their dreams with fervor.

So, as we traverse this intricate journey of life, let's keep these two lines close to our hearts: "Do it scared." "Do it just to say you did it." Embrace the unknown, defy your apprehensions, and seize those opportunities that resonate deeply within you. For in the end, it's the pursuit of dreams that sets our souls ablaze and leaves an enduring impact on both ourselves and the world around us.