From Body Shaming to Belly Dancing – A Lesson in Fear

Meredith’s Inspiring Post

I  recently saw a few posts from friends, that challenge the reader to do something that scares them, once a day. These posts seem to originate from the idea that we CAN overcome our fear and we WILL be much better off once we take that leap. These posts did have me thinking about what I could do to overcome a fear, but it wasn’t until yesterday that I got serious about this idea.

A friend from college (Go Loras!) just posted a very inspiring story yesterday and she gave me permission to share. You see, Meredith experienced a lifetime of body shaming issues, but really wanted to try belly dancing. She was too fearful and talked herself out of it, until one day….

“Back in January I decided that for my New Year’s resolution I was going to do something that terrified me. And because of a lifetime of body shame issues, few things scared me more than the mystical art of belly dancing. We have a local troupe that performs in festivals and every time I saw them it took my breath away. Never in a million years did I think I could get my body to do that. So I took a deep breath and signed up for a class. It has unequivocally changed my life. Not only does it turn out that my body CAN do that… it LOVES IT. I’ve lost about 40 lbs. since starting and the shape my body is taking is nothing short of miraculous. Plus, I’ve discovered an inner wealth of self-confidence that I’ve only marveled at in others. Now I’m taking several dance classes a week and I’m endlessly fascinated by my reflection in the mirror. It took me 38 years to be able to look in the mirror and honestly believe in my beauty. Dance opened my eyes and my heart in inexplicable ways. Where would I be today if I hadn’t waited so long to jump in?  No more waiting. Get out there and so something that scares you… it’s probably the key to opening up your life to miracles you didn’t even dare to dream about. Stop worrying about what other people might think and start wondering if you can possibly reach the limit of how awesome you really are. GO LIVE.”-Meredith

Meredith’s story inspires me, especially as a woman, because so often, our lives are bursting with action items, activities and stressors that overwhelm us and our schedules. It is way too easy to provide an excuse to NOT focus on ourselves.  WHEN is it okay to STOP and invest some time and effort into our own well being? What day in the future will you allow yourself to do something that terrifies you, and thus overcome that fear? What if it is TODAY?

Sign up for a class like Meredith.   Reach out to that someone you have been admiring. Ask for help.  Register for those classes. Make that appointment to speak to someone about a career change. Start that business.

Eight months ago, Meredith was afraid, and was going to let another opportunity pass her by… but she didn’t. She is happier and more confident today then she has been in years. What can YOU do to ‘reach the limit of how awesome you really are’?

I know what I need to do.  I am going to finally make that call to ask for help in my business (which really does terrify me, for some reason).

I would love to hear any stories from women who might be  facing a fear.  Will you share your journey with us? You just never know who you might inspire!  Thank you Meredith!