When I chose ‘reclaiming’ as my word of the year (you read more about why I embraced the Word of the Year trend and download my guide on how choose your own word here), I didn’t imagine it would lead to stepping off the edge of Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium. But as I reflect on this experience, I can’t think of a better way to reclaim confidence than facing one of my deepest fears.
My fear of falling stems from a parachuting accident in 2015, in which my friend tragically lost her life whilst we were on holiday together. The incident deeply imprinted on my confidence and anxiety, especially now that I’m the same age she was when she died. While I’ve always struggled with steep descents (not ideal for a hiker and trail runner!), the imprints have become a defining hurdle for me.
But this isn’t just a story about fear or tragic accidents it’s about stepping into growth, resilience, and outside your comfort cage. Here are five lessons I learned when I faced my fear and stepped off the Edge of Tottenham Hotspurs football stadium on 5 January:
1. THE EDGE IS THE SCARIEST BIT. Walking towards the edge of your comfort zone is where fear feels strongest. Doubts and inner critic will try to hold you back. But once I placed just one foot on the edge of that roof, a calmness came over me. One tiny step and my comfort zone had already expanded.
2. EXHALE. As a yoga teacher I do not have to remind clients to breath in, but I do have to remind them to breath out. Focussing on the breath point as an anchor can help you navigate the discomfort as you step into your stretch zone.
3. GET SUPPORT. Support can make all the difference. My guide at the Edge reassured me with every step, held space for my emotions, and gave me an arm (quite literally) to lean on. Whether it’s a guide, mentor, friend, or coach, having someone in your corner to compassionately hold space and support you makes is powerful.
4. ENJOY THE JOURNEY. Before I knew it, I was on the ground. I had missed the rooftop views of the city I grew up in. I hadn’t locked in a memory of my partner next to me. I was so focussed on getting to the end point, that I forgot to enjoy the journey. A cliché I know but something I regret.
5. CELEBRATE YOU! Celebrate your wins, big or small. Invite your support network to cheer you on and acknowledge the progress you’ve made. You’re capable of more than you think, and every step outside your comfort zone is worth celebrating.
This leap reminded me that growth happens on the edge of fear, and it’s worth stepping into the unknown. I’m not sure how I’ll top this stretch goal in the months ahead, but I’d love to hear about yours.
What’s one way you’re stepping outside your comfort zone this year? Let’s inspire each other—drop me an email or message to share.
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