Embracing Opportunities: The Myth of "I'm Not Ready Yet"
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Chapter 1: The Power of Taking Risks
In the past two decades, there have been pivotal moments where I took significant leaps of faith, even when I felt unprepared. There were also chances I regret not seizing sooner. Did I experience regret? Yes, and yet, those missed opportunities imparted invaluable lessons that shaped who I am today.
I distinctly recall watching Steve Jobs’ commencement address at Stanford University. There was a segment I replayed multiple times to fully grasp its significance. He said, “The most crucial tool I’ve encountered for making significant life choices is the awareness of my mortality. Almost all external expectations, pride, and fear of failure dissipate in the face of death, leaving only what truly matters. Recognizing that we will die is the best way to escape the trap of believing we have something to lose. You are already vulnerable. There’s no reason not to pursue your passions.”
We all face mortality eventually. While we may not encounter it soon, it is a certainty. So why should we navigate life without taking bold risks? I vividly remember three instances where I took substantial leaps of faith and emerged both happy and transformed.
Photo by Asad Photo Maldives from Pexels
Section 1.1: A Leap of Love
After dating my girlfriend for just three months, I realized she was extraordinary. She complemented me in ways that felt almost too good to be true. However, life intervened, presenting me with a dilemma that would change my life forever: her visa extension was denied, and she faced returning to her home country.
I had two choices: enjoy her remaining time and bid farewell (long-distance relationships aren’t for me) or take a bold step and marry her so she could stay and we could build a life together. Given that we hadn’t even lived together, marriage seemed premature, and I felt unprepared.
After a few hours of contemplation, I envisioned the worst-case scenario: divorce, paperwork, potential financial loss, and disappointing my parents. With that in mind, I thought, “Why not? Let’s go for it!” Talk about courage!
We initially had a civil ceremony, later saving for a beautiful beach wedding in Boracay. Now, eleven years later, we are happily married with a wonderful daughter. I embraced the challenge of making our relationship work, learning and compromising along the way. It was a significant gamble, but it paid off!
Photo by Mídia
Section 1.2: The Game-Winning Shot
During my youth, basketball was my passion. I would practice in my parents’ backyard, visualizing myself making the winning shot. Then, the moment came—our team was down by a point with just five seconds left on the clock. The game plan was for me to take the shot.
With my heart racing, I had two options: pass the ball or attempt to win the game myself. I chose the latter, and against all odds, I made the shot over the tallest defender! We won, and the feeling was exhilarating.
What if I had missed? I might have felt disappointed, but life would have moved on.
Photo by Suzy Hazelwood
Section 1.3: The Writer's Journey
For years, I aspired to start a blog but always found excuses: I wasn’t ready because I didn’t know what to write about, lacked sufficient life experience, and English is not my first language. My fear of public scrutiny held me back.
So, I decided to confront my fear. I committed to publishing one article on Medium and reassured myself that I could delete it if I felt terrible afterward. To my surprise, I felt proud instead! That first article ignited a passion for sharing my thoughts, leading me to publish 29 articles since then. I still ponder what held me back for so long.
Photo by Pixabay
The Art of Fear Setting
Fear setting is a valuable exercise I utilize when faced with tough decisions. Unlike goal setting, fear setting emphasizes the worst-case scenarios associated with challenging choices. If you want to learn more about this concept, be sure to check out this insightful video by Tim Ferris.
Conclusion: Taking Action Amid Uncertainty
There will always be times in life when action is necessary, even if we feel unprepared. As humans, we learn best through our mistakes. If the risks aren’t life-threatening, consider taking the plunge, even if you feel unready.
As my favorite YouTuber once said, “Start before you believe you’re ready because you’ll never truly feel ready. But trust me… you are.” — Matt D’Avella
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