It was just two years ago that I took a leap of faith and agreed to a summer job that was four hours away from home where I knew absolutely no one. I was nervous because it would be the first time living that far away from home, and I had no one near me to help me feel less homesick. At the same time, it was a job like none of the others I had before, and I had no true idea what I was in for.
Fast forward to moving into my summer housing, and I had a four bedroom house to myself for an entire week. I didn't have WiFi either, so I spent the week going to bed at eight and reading books in the quiet of the empty house. There was one other girl my age at the time, and I quickly befriended her, not wanting to spend every waking minute all by myself.
Although I had made the decision to step out of my comfort zone by a long shot, it was one of the best by far. That decision resulted in meeting some of my best friends, people who I not only worked with but also lived with. I was able to work at a job where I got into shape, strengthened my body and character, and pushed myself to do the best I could.
I also took a leap of faith that same summer and volunteered at a national youth gathering in New Orleans. It was the first time flying by myself, and also the first time I remember having a flight that was delayed enough that I could have missed my connecting flight. Much of all I was experiencing was meeting new people and exploring a new place.
Since facing that first fear of going to a new place all by myself, even some of the most nerve-wracking experiences have seemed miniscule. I learned that I could take a leap of faith, and it could all turn out. I’ve also learned that taking a leap of faith can mean failure, but that there’s always a chance to work it out.
I’ve learned to live more in the moment, to enjoy the punches that life throws my way. I have learned that taking chances is a good thing and that I always seem to learn more about myself when I do. Sometimes it is scary, but smiles and excitement melt the fear away.
I am less than two months away from my college graduation, and let me tell you how much that scares me. Like many students that will soon be graduating, I don’t have a definite plan on what I am doing afterwards. I am not afraid of moving to a new place where I know no one, nor am I afraid to try for any jobs because I know that somehow everything will work out the way it needs to.
If you are letting fear hold you back from trying something outside of your comfort zone, it’s time to embrace the fear and do it anyway! The worst that could happen is that you may fail and fall flat on your face, but you can always get back up and try something else.
The best thing that could happen? You could learn, grow, experience, dance, smile, dream, fly, scream, cry, sing, sore, plan, succeed, live. Your chance is waiting for you to take it, so what are you waiting for?