It’s a dirty little word that no one wants to talk about because it makes us feel weak and vulnerable.

Psychology Today describes fear as: “a vital response to physical and emotional danger — if we didn’t feel it, we couldn’t protect ourselves from legitimate threats. But often we fear situations that are far from life-or-death, and thus hang back for no good reason.”

No one wants to feel vulnerable or weak in front of others. However, we often miss amazing opportunities because we let fear take over.

Opportunities to excel in our career, meet new people, or hit a PR at the gym.

As a Coach, we see it time and time again. 

Jane is attempting a new 1 RPM, she hits 155#, looks great, form is terrific.  Jane throws 175# on the bar and suddenly it feels a bit heavy. She goes for it – form is still terrific, but her mind starts telling her “this is your new 1 RPM.”

Did Jane fail?  No, at least not on her lift! She just let fear take over.

Is 175# really her 1RPM? Probably not!

What Jane, and many of us, needs to learn is that failing makes us stronger.  We cannot learn if we do not fail.

Getting uncomfortable, vulnerable, and failing is all part of the growth process. 

If you have kids, they NEED to see you fail, pick ourselves up, and keep going. Why?  Because that’s REAL LIFE. 

No one is going to have everything perfect.  Why teach others that when life gets a little hard…stop. Do we want our kids to take the easy road?

Do yourself a favor; don’t take the easy road in the gym.  Face your fear and get uncomfortable.

Failing is not the worst thing that can happen. Failing to GROW personally, professional, and physically is!

-Coach Sandy