Sometimes We Need a Push

Welcome to Career Advise, the newsletter providing career advice, how-tos, and life musings through an optimistic and intriguing lens.

Each week, you will receive two newsletters written by the Oppstartr Team. Mondays — Our career-focused newsletter. Fridays — Out of Office where we discuss life and other thought-provoking ideas.

Happy Friday to you all, and welcome to Out of Office, the weekend edition of Career Advise.

Fear is the intangible force often hindering us from taking action. Growing up, my primary fear centered around swimming. Despite watching my friends joyfully splashing around, playing chicken, and cannon-balling off the diving board, I never possessed the courage to join them without my trusty oversized Spider-Man floaties. That is until the day I received a push.

It was a cloudy summer afternoon, and my family and I were at a neighborhood party. Amidst the music, burgers, adult beverages, and Kool-Aid Bursts for the kids, I vividly recall a pivotal moment. While enjoying a Popsicle by the pool, a friend encouraged me to jump in. I panicked. Just as I was about to provide an excuse, my dad tossed me in the deep end.

For a moment, time stood still. The initial fear of drowning gave way to a surprising familiarity with the calming water. In that unexpected moment, I was able to overcome my fear of swimming, thanks to an unconventional push from my dad.

Reflecting on the incident later that night, my dad shared a profound truth. “Son, sometimes all we need is a little push.” That push often serves as a catalyst for conquering our fears.

Today, fear pays a visit from time to time. However, I have learned that when it does, we all face two distinct choices: allow it to build or decide to act. Opting for the latter, I have discovered that fear gradually loses its grip.

Once confined to a Word document, my writing now finds its way into the open. Sharing my thoughts has not only helped me but also, I hope, has helped others in navigating life differently. Co-founding a newsletter with a close friend was a venture I never envisioned. What lies ahead? I think I’ll continue chasing something exciting, something out of my comfort zone. Perhaps, as you read this, a fear crossed your mind. If so, I encourage you to use my reflection as the push needed to confront the uncertainty holding you back.

Fear is a universal companion, but it doesn’t have to dictate our actions. It’s yet another hurdle to jump over, a challenge to embrace. The water may appear intimidating, but once you take the plunge, you might just find a world of possibilities waiting for you. Let go of your fears, and dive into the vast pool of freedom. After all, sometimes, all we need is a little push.

Thank you for reading Career Advise. Be sure to read our upcoming issue on Monday where we focus on our third pillar: Tend the Orchard.

Share this with those in your network, and check out our other posts and our homepage by following the buttons below.