THE TRY>>>

We've all encountered the encouragement to "Just give it a try." As kids, we instinctively understood that beyond this encouragement is something exciting, entertaining, probably unique, and most likely very unfamiliar. Back then, our eagerness to explore was driven more by wonder, childlike curiosity and anticipation rather than concern about potential failure or embarrassment. And for some of us, me, the words, "that's stupid", or "don't do that", still ring in our ears today, and sometimes even changed us more to actually do it.

As we grow older, we often hear and acknowledge the wisdom that, at the end of our lives – and here's a vital realization – we never truly know when that end will be. What becomes evident is that we are more likely to regret the opportunities we didn't seize than the ones we pursued. This underscores the importance of embracing new experiences and taking chances.

WHEN I'M FACED WITH THE DECISION OF WHETHER TO PURSUE SOMETHING NEW OR NOT, A PERSISTENT INNER VOICE ECHOES PHRASES LIKE "GO FOR IT," "GIVE IT A SHOT," AND "JUST DO IT." IT'S A REMINDER NOT TO SUCCUMB TO ANXIETY AND TO OVERCOME ANY LINGERING HESITATIONS. THIS INTERNAL DIALOGUE IS AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO STOP BEING APPREHENSIVE AND TAKE ACTION. AFTER ALL, WITHOUT TAKING THAT FIRST STEP, WE'LL NEVER TRULY KNOW WHAT WE MIGHT DISCOVER. EVEN IF THE OUTCOME IS NOT WHAT WE HOPED FOR, THE ACT OF TRYING ITSELF HOLDS TREMENDOUS VALUE.

These experiences, whether energizing or challenging, often bring forth in-valuable lessons. They become references in our life's journey, offering insights that we can apply in various other aspects of our lives. Sometimes, it's as simple as following a friend's or a family member's suggestion to try a new restaurant or sample unfamiliar cuisine. Maybe it's immersing oneself in a different culture, trying out new activities, or learning about new languages and sports.

Just try it encourages us to overcome the paralysis of overthinking, the inertia of indecision, and the fear of failure. It almost urges us to take that critical first step towards innovation, self-discovery, and transformation. Each attempt, regardless of its outcome, is a valuable learning experience, an experiment that brings us closer to our objectives, reshapes perspectives, and enriches our lives. The insights gained through the act of trying become the cornerstone upon which we construct ambitious visions for the future.

So, when you stand next time at the edge of opportunity, feeling uncertain and hesitant, remember the incredible power and energy within these three simple words: "Just try it" or as Nike so famously puts it, "Just Do It."

Let these words be your inspiration as you venture into new areas of your life.

And to serve and support your journey and refection here are a few thoughts:

If I were to ask you to make a list of things you regret not pursuing, those may represent missed opportunities that might not come around again. Or perhaps, you'll get a second chance to give them a try. The fear of failure, embarrassment, or judgment often holds us back from trying something new.

This fear can become a recurring pattern in how we make decisions and whether we take the leap to try something different.

Ultimately, the message is clear: trying and taking that first step is the only way to unveil the potential hidden behind uncertainty.

An invitation for a deeper exploration

Think of the things, experiences, foods, people, or opportunities that instantly come to mind as you read this. What are those moments, places, conversations, and actions that you've always wanted to try, but for some reason, they remain on the back burner?

I encourage you to openly share and explore these thoughts and, perhaps, reconsider trying those things or tasting those foods you've never ventured into.

Consider this: the mere fact that these thoughts are resurfacing in your mind right now means they hold significance. They are worth contemplating and, potentially, worth pursuing.