Notes to Self: Reframing Fear & Nerves

In conversations, a common refrain I encounter is, "I could never do that," or "I'd be too nervous to even try." These sentiments stem from two familiar foes: fear and nerves. Yet, what if we could convert these adversaries into allies? Before any endurance race, I grapple with these emotions, yet I've learned to harness them to my advantage.

?I'd like to share a big learning experience from my basic infantry training in the military, particularly my first time throwing a grenade. The military emphasizes safety rigorously, more so when live ammunition is involved. After countless drills over numerous days, when the moment arrived to handle a live grenade, my youthful overconfidence and cockiness was easy to see.? The Range Officer's insistence on performing the drill once more—and his subsequent reaction to my nonchalance—earned me an ear full. He stressed how he wanted to see a little fear in me, that it was a sign of respect of the risk around us, he emphasized it as a sign of care and attention to detail, crucial traits for not jeopardizing the safety of all around us.

?This lesson was profound: fear and nerves are not inherently negative. They signify investment and importance. They can sharpen our focus if we reframe our perspective towards these emotions. On the eve of every race, sleep eludes me, a testament to having nerves. Initially, this pre-race ritual alarmed me, fearing it would mean a really bad performance. Over time, I recognized this pattern as how much I cared about succeeding on the race. Now, when nerves surface, I greet them like an old friend, their timely arrival almost amusing to me. Here you are again, right on cue.

The most empowering realization is that fear and nerves are averse to action. The simple act of preparing, such as tying my shoes, begins to diminish their grip. Once the race starts, and I'm propelled into action, fear dissolves entirely.

This approach is not about eradicating fear and nerves but about acknowledging their presence and leveraging them as indicators of what truly matters to us. They are reminders to proceed with care and precision, transforming them from obstacles into sources of strength.