I recently returned home from a trip to Amsterdam.
It was a beautiful city and we timed our trip so we could see all the tulips but my favorite thing about the trip was the bicycles. People use their bikes as transportation to work, to the store, to take their kids to school! I even saw a woman carrying a recently purchased table tucked under one arm riding her bike.
I think I was born in the wrong part of the world because it was an absolute dream. Bicycles are happy-making machines.
On the 9+ hour flight to Europe, I watched way too many movies, but there was one that I loved called Free Solo. Have you seen this thing?
It’s a documentary about Alex Honnold who attempts to be the first person to ever free solo climb the sheer vertical rock face of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. (Elevation of 7,569’) Free soloing is climbing without the assistance or safety net of ropes.
It’s just you on that rock using your own strength and experience to get to the top.
There were so many inspiring/mind-blowing things in this film, but Alex said one thing that really gave me pause. In fact, I made a note on my phone so I wouldn’t forget it.
This is what I want to share with you today.
“You face your fear because your goal demands it.” -Alex Honnold
I guess the reason this struck me so much is that it’s not just about facing fears for the sake of bravery.
Instead, it’s about wanting to reach that goal enough that nothing can keep you from trying. Even fear.
Is there something in your life that you want that much?
A new friend?
A better relationship?
A new job?
To run a marathon?
To start a business?
To learn a skill?
Whatever that thing is that popped into your head when you read the question, I hope you decide that you want it enough to try.
And, if nothing came to mind, think about the last time you felt truly excited about something and then do more of that.
Life is short and shouldn’t we all do more things that excite and frighten us in equal measure?
If you don’t want the thrill of facing a fear, may I suggest that you at least take a ride on a bicycle?
You won’t regret it.
