Risks are everywhere. Places we often regard as the most safe, secure and comfortable in the world – our homes, aren’t necessarily a risk-free zone.
Like it or not, we take risks all the time. Sometimes knowingly, sometimes unknowingly. Even risk avoidance in itself is another form of risk-taking. Funny huh?
Fears come in all shapes and sizes. For some people, simple things like going out and about, can prove to be overwhelming and challenging.
Every one is different. A person who is afraid of heights, doesn’t mean he or she is scared of flying. Another person who is afraid of crowds, doesn’t mean he or she is scared of public speaking. It doesn’t have to make sense as long as it feels real – that’s what people care about.
I remember quite clearly, one Sunday afternoon I ventured into Manly Dam in Sydney and did a bush walk there, regardless the weather forecast said it was going to be unpredictable. I gnored, I still went, I didn’t care.
Well, it was very stubborn of me. I tempted fate, got what I deserved – rain! Silly me.
If you’ve ever been in a similar situation, then you’d know being in a bush under cold, wet and dark conditions can be a very unpleasant experience. It didn’t take long before I realised I was covered in mud and dirt.
For someone who is a clean freak and has some form of OCD, it’s a big deal. Admittedly, sometimes I do put on a brave face and act like it doesn’t bother me. But on the inside my fear of contamination and fear of germs can go through the roof. Anyway, I should write a new post about it one day.
No fuss. I wasn’t the only guy in the bush. Still, there were a few crazy people around, joggers and dog walkers alike. Knowing I wasn’t alone, motivated me.
Of course, I had other choices. The easiest thing for me to do would’ve been staying at home, putting my feet up, lying on my couch and having some comfort food.
Why didn’t I do that?
Well, I put myself in this position for a reason. I wanted to face my fears and find ways of building strengths again, of course also to keep a promise to my dog Jamie.
I can’t lie to you about the fact that I often relapse into an old mindset or a bad habit altogether. Just go around in circles: Fight, flight, fight, flight, fight, flight, repeat and repeat again. But that’s OK. At least every Sunday cycle, I do get out and get back on my feet again… literally speaking!
Ted Tsai 