Have you ever come up against an activity, a goal or a job and said, “I can’t do that!” Where has that shown up for you? Have you seen yoga postures, technical problems on your computer or physical challenges and said; “I can’t do that.” There are many opportunities in life to reach beyond our edge. In fact it’s so good for the soul. In my experience many of these edges show up at work and also in my personal life.
I recently had a fabulous four-day trip to Jamaica with my best friend Judy. After catching up on the past and the present, we had time to sit and talk about the future. To our surprise, we realized that we both had a bucket list that included horseback riding on the beach. Since earning my Girl Scout Badge at Pelham Bit Stables in the Bronx, New York, I haven’t been on a horse since. But somehow this has remained on my list. Judy and I decided to do this together and cross it off our bucket list, and found a great opportunity in Jamaica.
We were told to come prepared with a bathing suit, long pants, sneakers, and off we went. First, we did the trail ride through the plantations. Our guide, Byron shared stories of his unique insights on Jamaica. The plantation path gave way to the beach and we trotted along the beautiful blue water, waves lapping on the white sand and the smell of the sea and a tropical breeze.
Then, we meandered down to a beautiful little cove. Byron said it was time to give the horses a rest. Judy and I dismounted and Byron took the saddles off the horses. After about a fifteen-minute break he said, “Now we’re going to ride in the water.” He took us, one at a time, bareback riding in the beautiful warm water. It was amazing! The horse loved the water. And it was such a freeing feeling, although a tad bit more uncomfortable than riding on a saddle. They have big spines!
Then, I thought that this was the end of my peak experience. Byron pulled his horse up to mine also sitting bareback, and said, “Now, you’re going to stand on the horse.” I said, “I can’t do that!” He said, “Yes, you can!” Bryon held my hand and gave me verbal instructions to move my feet, bend my knees, and stand … while in my head I kept saying, “I can’t do that!” With his good coaching and patience, within one minute I was standing bareback on my horse. It was a thrill! Then coming down I slipped and flew off the side of the horse behind Byron, laughing hysterically and so pleased with myself. I could do that!
How many times do we refuse to push past our beliefs that we can’t do something? If we believe we can’t do it, most times we won’t even try. This is true in our business life and in our personal life. Where are you refusing to stretch, or thinking it’s just impossible? I invite you to think about when you say “I can’t do that” and consider some breakthroughs as you begin planning for 2013.
