We all have fears. We all hesitate to try things that are presented to us in life. Carli in Clean Sweep is reluctant to join a team helping several women who are homeless on the streets of Manhattan. Only after she becomes so angry with the situation she sees does she develop the resolve to give it a try. Then, unsurprisingly, she gains confidence that jumping in with two feet is the right thing to do.

If you are ever on the fence about trying something new, what holds you back? At times, it is likely fear. Fear of failure. Fear of the unknown. Fear of how worthwhile or fulfilling the new something might be. At other times, it might be being stretched so thin by other commitments that taking on something new seems impossible. Usually, once you jump in, you find a wonderful life-enriching experience is waiting for you. Other times, a strategic “no thank you” is a healthy alternative for the sake of time management.

I have let fear hold me back many times in life. I have also abandoned fear and found great rewards for having tried something new, or something that, at first, felt overwhelming or beyond my capacity. Usually, stepping right in, seeing what comes my way, and plowing through my natural hesitation proves enriching. Because I was willing to take the leap, I can proudly say I have been, among other things, a flower farmer, small business owner, and now an indie author. All have enriched my life beyond any possible expectation and have allowed me the gift of self growth. This is key.

We are meant to grow. We age out of Kindergarten. I told my children many times, if you remained in the safety of Kindergarten, think of everything you would have missed as you aged. I keep this thought in the back of my mind most every day something even slightly challenging or frightening comes my way! Yes, let’s all keep growing. I believe it is what we are meant to do. Enjoy your new experiences!