How often do you challenge your own beliefs? My mother always said, “everything you want is on the other side of fear.” I never realized the impact that had on my life until these past few years. Through the end of college I started to realize how frequently I challenge myself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Often times I would use fear as a gage of progress and success because I have found that most fears are nurtured and, in many cases, misguided. So, I decided to continuously challenge myself and what I believe I know, because 1) the world is full of endless knowledge and 2) I certainly don’t know everything.
DFC Perspective from the Inside Out
I find most of my success through developing various perspectives around something. Sometimes finding a new perspective is simple, like watching the Detroit Ford Fireworks from the Renaissance Center rather than the north end of the river. A new friend of mine invited me and I was worried about breaking a family tradition of enjoying the show together from up river. I am so grateful I took the opportunity because I saw the city and the Fireworks from literally a new angle, I met 6 new, wonderful people and explored the Renaissance Center, a building in Detroit few people get to freely roam. I enjoyed the Fireworks in a vastly different way from what I had know growing up and I will now have a more pleasurable, robust understanding and enjoyment of the show in the future. They were brighter, louder, and had much more depth than I have ever seen before. Who knew the Detroit Fireworks could be that much more beautiful? Well I do now! The Fireworks are a great analogy for life in general. With only one perspective, they looked flat and simple. Adding a second perspective gave them depth, complexity, and resounding beauty.
Detroit Fireworks from the 30th floor of the Ren. Cen.
Other times my challenges are more complicated. For example, I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit hearing how Detroit is a dangerous, failing city and a place I should not go. So, naturally, I decide to get a job and live downtown. I was afraid. I had a very narrow perspective of the city with few ways to relate to the urban environment. I believe that the best way to change this and gain perspective is to listen, learn, and understand all the voices, visions, and experiences of others in Detroit. This in turn will eradicate my fears. My plan has been failsafe so far! I continue to unlock mysteries of this exciting city and grow as a person because I chose to venture outside my comfort zone.
Detroit
As I continue through this journey of discovering myself and uncovering the magic of Detroit, I always remember what my mom said and challenge myself to let go of misguided fears and beliefs, because Detroit is an amazing city filled with amazing people. All you have to do is be present and listen, and the wonders of the city will unfold before you.
I am curious, what brings you fear and how do you challenge yourself?