Amber JohnsonBucket List Item #1: Scuba Diving-CHECK
Bohol, Philippines
A few years ago I faced my biggest and worst fear of snakes in the Amazon (I’m still not a fan, but I no longer hyperventilate when I see one). The only other tangible thing I was truly scary of, on a lesser level, was the deep ocean.
But, I finally jumped in! Scuba diving was never something I had an interest in mainly because of this fear, however like my usually mindset, you only live once so why not try it in one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world. I wasn’t willing to let the fear conquer me and was determined to look it in the face and show it who was boss.
I assumed that I would feel anxious, uncomfortable and out of control; a combination of feelings I usually run from. While I did a bit at first, I was able to calm down through focusing on my breath and repeatedly convincing myself that everything would be fine and it won’t last forever. I did worry that I may have been stuck in that wet suit forever though.
I ended up loving it and felt so zen floating around only hearing the sound of my own breath. I felt incredibly free and light that I actually forgot to swim a couple times; eventually feeling a small tug from my instructor that it’s ok to move around.
Facing fears, whether I enjoy them or not in the end, allows me to learn something new about myself and always gives me the boost of confidence I need to tackle whatever else lies ahead. I do my best to push myself to experience anything and everything because I can’t truly say I like or don’t like something if I don’t try and many times I end up surprising myself. Plus, I love surprises! I’m positive I’ll be below the surface again in the future.
What’s your biggest fear and would you be willing to face it?
You bring us along with you as you take your steps. I’m so impressed. Thanks.
Thanks Grandma! It means a lot.