Your Capacity is Unlimited. Your Fears are Limiting You

The more we matured, the more fears and shadows we developed in the depths of our hearts. They prevented us from enjoying life to the fullest.

Me canoeing in the beautiful Yukon River near Whitehorse. This specific part of the river is also known as Schwatka Lake.

Human life is fascinating. As children, we possess one of the greatest gifts: fearlessness in the face of risky endeavours. We could jump and run with ease. At that time, we yearned to grow up quickly, eager to become adults. And then we did grow up.

However, the more we matured, the more fears and shadows we developed in the depths of our hearts. Even though our bodies were still capable of the same feats as in childhood, these fears held us back from new experiences. They prevented us from enjoying life to the fullest and moving our bodies freely.

Every time we wanted to walk, run, or hike, those shadows of fear restrained us. As we gained more life experiences—which is wonderful—these experiences paradoxically created more shadows and fears. Encountering new experiences, people, or activities is great, but these encounters shouldn't become barriers to future experiences.

You can still embark on the same hikes, runs, walks, or dances. The key is managing those shadows of fear. It's prudent to be cautious of your surroundings, but being overly cautious or worried about everything around you prevents you from living life to its fullest.

One day, while visiting a friend, I met a doctor. He demonstrated an interesting point by placing one foot on the edge of a floor, his toes on the floor but his heel in the air. He explained that he could stand stably like this without shaking or nervousness. However, he said that if he were standing in a same way on a hilltop or mountain, he couldn't maintain the same pose because his fears would overwhelm him.

Many people harbour fears of flying. I have a friend who can't fly without taking medication to calm her nerves. There are also numerous individuals who can't even drive a car due to their fears. Another friend in Whitehorse told me his parents never visited him because they worry about flying and even dread long car rides.

We all possess our own unique set of fears and shadows, deeply ingrained within our psyche. These personal apprehensions and doubts, while varying from individual to individual, serve as formidable barriers that hinder our ability to fully embrace and enjoy the richness of life. It is crucial that we embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning to identify these fears and shadows that lurk within us. Moreover, we must strive to comprehend the underlying reasons and root causes behind each of these emotional obstacles.

This process of introspection and understanding is not merely about recognition, but about gaining a deeper insight into the very fabric of our fears. As we delve into this exploration, we begin to unravel the complex tapestry of our anxieties, piece by piece. The key lies in approaching each fear or shadow with a sense of curiosity and openness, rather than judgment or resistance.

Once you have successfully identified a specific reason behind a fear, the next step is to gradually shift your perspective. Begin to view this fear from a more analytical or objective standpoint, distancing yourself emotionally to gain clarity. This shift in perspective allows you to examine your fears with a critical eye, much like a scientist observing a phenomenon under a microscope. As you consistently practice this approach, I am confident that you will start to notice a transformation. Slowly but surely, you will find yourself gaining more control over your fears, diminishing their power over your thoughts and actions.

This process of understanding, analyzing, and gradually overcoming your fears is not an overnight transformation, but rather a journey of personal growth. It requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. However, as you progress along this path, you'll find that the shadows that once loomed large begin to recede, allowing more light and joy into your life. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate fear entirely, but to develop a healthier relationship with it, one that empowers rather than constrains you.

To add more joy to your mood today, let me share a video I created with my talented musician friend Damien Robitaille in Montréal a few years ago. Suki, the dog, is very talented:

Your potential is boundless and infinite. The only true limitations you face are the self-imposed barriers created by your own fears and doubts. Your capacity for growth, learning, and achievement knows no bounds. It is only the apprehensions and uncertainties that you harbour within yourself that can hold you back from realizing your full potential. These internal obstacles cast a veil over your true capabilities, obscuring your perception of your own strength. By acknowledging and addressing these fears, you can begin to dissolve the barriers that stand between you and the realization of your full potential, allowing your inner strength to shine through unobstructed.

Nothing should stop you from finding joy in your life—live it to the fullest and savour every moment.

(If you can, write your thoughts in the comments below)