While I can’t quite remember when I learned how to float or swim to survive, I became aware that these skills were not enough when I was given the option to jump into deep water while traveling.

In 2019 and again in 2023, my lack of swimming skills prevented me from jumping into and enjoying the water like other travelers I’d met.

These two instances made it clear that I had a debilitating fear of deep water (and drowning). However, they both pushed me to start taking baby steps toward becoming a stronger swimmer.

In the fall, I decided to make the most of my time back home, by enrolling in a beginner swimming course in September and an intermediate course in December.

By the end of my two courses, I could jump into (and swim) in deep water without hyperventilating (YAY!!) 😀

With these new skills under my belt, my fear of deep water and inability to swim well were things of the past, and could no longer hold me back, especially while traveling!

My fear was put to the test in the spring of 2024, when I traveled a Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. After a few hours of being in this new region, I learned of a place where I could take a 40-foot jump into the lake. As I thought more about it, fear crept in. But then, I asked myself “What I was afraid of”. My response shocked me. I responded, “I am only jumping into water and I can swim, so there is nothing to be afraid of” 🙂

So, just like that I took a boat to the trampoline (jump off point) and took the 40-foot leap! And it wasn’t bad, because I can swim. For proof, SEE VIDEO at the end of this post😉

I will say that I was in some pain for a week or so afterward because of the impact of the water, but I have no regrets and would be open to doing it again. I would just make sure I am straight like a pencil when I enter the water 😉

What I learned

If I am afraid to do or pursue something, I have three options:

(1) I can, just do it, with fear and all

The adrenaline and feeling of accomplishment would likely give me a high like no other.

(2) I can work up to it

I don’t have to do it all at once. I can take baby steps toward facing the fear. I can equip myself with skills or tools (i.e., swimming lessons) that would help me face my fear in the future (i.e., jumping into deep water).

(3) I can decide not to do it at all

Usually, I try to only reserve this option for if deep down inside, I don’t want to do it. I may be doing it for other people, or to boost my ego.

Challenge

Is there something you are afraid to do? Or pursue? If so, can you think of something you can start doing today that will help you overcome your fear?

If so, what is it? And can you start today (or soon)? Can you take baby steps towards overcoming your fear? Are there any skills you can acquire that will give you the boost or confidence to take the leap?

Maybe you don’t need to take baby steps. Maybe you can just take the leap.

Only you know what is best for you! I encourage you to follow your heart, most times it won’t lead you astray. If it does, I’m hopeful you will be rerouted and will learn a lesson that will propel you to where you should go next.

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Thank you so much for reading this post! And as always, if you have any tips, suggestions, questions and/or comments, please leave them in the comment box below (or reach out to me directly).

Sending lots of love and light your way💗

Until next post!

Xx,

Raina B.