I just did something that was not objectively scary at all. No rational person would think so.
Yet for me it was slightly terrifying. I’ve been putting it off for years because I knew it would scare me.
But I’m not into being limited by my fears, so today I did the thing.
And the whole time, I repeated a line in my head that I heard last weekend in a movie called The Internship, written by and starring Vince Vaughn. It was a sweet and funny film and I ended up watching it twice over two days. Obviously I recommend it.
The plot of the movie revolves around Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson entering a summer internship program at Google. When they first arrive on campus, they’re a little lost, and Vince suggests they ask for directions from the person in this car going by. Only there’s no one in the car. It’s self-driving.
For a brief moment, both men stand there in shock. But then Vince turns to Owen, slaps him on the back, and says, “It’s only scary because it’s new.”
And isn’t that true? About so many of the things we’re afraid of? Until we’ve done it once and can see what it’s about, we put it off and fear it and avoid it. At least I do.
Or at least I did. I’m actively working to let go of that habit.
So thanks, Vince. I needed that. I needed it over and over this morning on a loop inside my head.
Maybe some of you out there could use it, too. Because maybe this is the summer you do whatever that thing is for you.
Be brave! It’s the most fun way to be!
And remember, you can always decide to do the thing now and schedule your fear for sometime later when it’s more convenient.
Come on, gang. Let’s do this.
Yes - and don't forget the boys! I have an 8 yr old who complains that certain pants "make him look too fat!"
Carla, that's such a good point. While it does seem like girls bear the brunt of the body image problems, boys certainly have them too, and we can't forget them.