What would you do…
Numerous people are credited for the quote, “What would you do if you knew you could not fail?” The idea is that our fears often hold us back from even trying something new. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of humiliation. My personal opinion is that there is even a fear of success that keeps us from venturing out into uncharted waters.
Wednesday evening, I had the privilege of attending Keyholder 10/Tributes: Diana Keaton at The Ohio Theatre in Columbus, Ohio, in support of The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio. This was a Mother’s Day gift from my daughter. The audience was filled with over 2000 women, anxious to hear from this independent, successful, funny, and talented woman. With the life experience of 64 years to draw from, Keaton shared several important messages. One of her stories was about taking risk.
Keaton told the story of a turning point in her life that came at the age of 50. Her father was diagnosed with inoperable cancer. She was driving him home from the doctor and it was very quiet in the car. Keaton described her relationship with her father as “respectful.” She wasn’t as close to him as her mother. As she drove him home that day, she just didn’t know what to say.
Out of the silence, though, her father said,
“I wish I had done things differently. I wish I had taken more risks.”
This statement resonated with her. Keaton thought about her life and realized that she didn’t want to ever be in the position of nearing the end of it and regretting not having done something. Upon reflection, she knew the risk she had not taken. It was scary, especially for someone who readily admitted being in love with the legend of herself.
Diane Keaton wanted to have a child.
At the age of 50 years, Diane Keaton adopted the first of her two children. She talked about how scary it was; how scary it still is. But she also talked about how it is the most rewarding and important thing in her life. She marvels at her children and the people they are.
Listening to her talk about daughter Dexter and son Duke, one could tell that Keaton is now in love with motherhood. I wonder if she ever stops to think about what life would be like of she had not taken the risk she feared. Imagine if her father had not announced his regret of not having taken more risks in his life.
What risks have YOU been avoiding? Don’t worry about whether or not you might fail. You have an equal chance of succeeding. Imagine the possibilities!
So, what is it you want to do? What can you do today to get there?
Tags: Goals, Happiness, Life, Positivity, Possibilities
You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.
