I am going to do something very brave and frankly,
I'm a little nervous about it. I think it's
important, though, to do things that are outside
your comfort zone. It's a great way to expand
your knowledge and abilities, and it can also be
exhilarating. Isn't that what life's about? What
better way to feel alive than to try new things,
stretch your limits, and let go of things on which
you depend too much?
The brave thing that I'm going to do falls into
the last category; letting go of things on which I
depend way too much. It's funny that I am
certainly a fan of adventure, yet I don't think of
this as one. If you think about it, though, it
really is.
So what is it that I'm going to do that requires
such bravery? What is it that I depend on that
I'm going to let go of? What is it that I'm going
to do that is such an adventure?
My wife and I are going on a little getaway and
I'm not taking my computer.
Stop laughing, this is serious stuff!
I need a break. Between my business, supporting
my wife through four bouts of breast cancer, and
launching CopingUniversity.com (
www.CopingUniversity.com)
I'm frazzled. April 22, 2010 is a triple
anniversary for us: 32 years since we met, 27
years married, and 8 years since her cancer
diagnosis. (All of these events occurred not only
on the same date, but at the same time on that
date!)
I can't remember the last time I went on a trip of
any kind without my computer. I can work on a
plane and during quiet moments of a trip, but this
time it's going to be different, and I can hardly
wait. I'm going to force myself to relax and not
think about the things I usually think about.
Here's the point, two points actually. The first
one is that it is so important to try new things
and stretch yourself on a regular basis. For
example, I speak to audiences large and small
about our cancer experience. When I first started
I was terrified, but now it's become routine. If
I hadn't gone beyond my comfort zone and made the
commitment, I wouldn't be able to do that now.
The other point is that it is much too difficult
for those dealing with a serious illness to get
away, really get away. I've decided to do it for
the first time in a long time, and I know it is a
calculated risk. Sure, something could come up
that needs my immediate attention, but the odds of
that happening are small and even if it does, I
predict that the world will get along with out me
for a short time. If it's something to do with my
wife, she'll be with me and we can get through it
together.
Serious illness is all about stretching your
comfort zone. There are always new and unexpected
challenges around the corner, many of which will
be outside your comfort zone. What are you going
to do, ignore the situation because it is
unnerving? When it comes to illness and a loved
one, that is usually not an option and you just do
what you have to do. And when you do, the feelings
of accomplishment and sense of satisfaction are
overwhelming.
Be brave and go outside your comfort zone. The
rewards are worth the risk.
