I do like a saying that can really stimulate you, such as:-
"Do something every day that makes you afraid"
It is a great way of making sure that you are living life to the full rather than just "getting by". It certainly doesn't mean you have to run back and forward across the by-pass or jump onto the railway line - it is all about stepping out of your "comfort zone".
So many of us put up defensive barriers with parapets from which we can steal glances out at the world. These barricades are supported by deep-rooted beliefs, with tried and tested defensive mechanisms, underpinned by emotional structures. All of this makes us feel safe and in control. Woe-betide anyone who dares to challenge these complex structures - they must not get too close or be allowed to see the frailty that may be hidden underneath it all.
Years ago I had fun working on an old, square-rigged, sailing ship taking adults from the UK down to The Canaries via Portugal. Probably the most rewarding aspect of that time was watching the dramatic change in the raw, inexperienced, crew who sailed with us. They ranged from 18 - 75 years of age. Some were still growing up, with loads to learn, whilst others were mature and accomplished but, without fail, a completely different person left that ship 2 - 4 weeks later. All of their personal fortresses were challenged and altered because, as the voyage progressed, everyone had to:-
- face the climb up masts going nearly 100 feet above the sea level,
- shuffle out on yardarms with the feet being supported by thin ropes,
- handle sails at these heights as the ship swayed like a pendulum,
- learn to live in mixed, shared, accommodation with over 40 people,
- face massive seas, waves and seasickness,
- deal with loneliness,
- undertake rolling 4 hour shifts over each day and night,
and, it came as a surprise to some, that no-one was going to step in and do it for them! Nor was there a "beam me up Scotty" button that took them off the ship if we hit a really heavy storm. You just had to get on with it and it did dramatically change people for the better. Everyone I sailed with found it a rewarding experience.
Of course, this kind of "life-changing" adventure is not available on a daily basis but Tai Chi training can give constant challenges for the Mind, Body & Spirit.
So, can you do something frightening today? Maybe you could extend yourself physically, mentally or emotionally. Perhaps you could just be nice to that person who has always annoyed you - what's the worst that could happen? Hey, face the fear and do it anyway!
—Sifu Steve