Swimming Pool Approach*
Most of us fear risk. In anything new, we are risking something, to get something. In things financial we fear the loss of money or being wrong. In all else, of all the fears, the greatest fear that holds us back, is of the unknown.
If fear of the unknown, or any fear, is holding you back from realizing any or all of your dreams and goals, then try the swimming pool approach. Wade into the shallow end and slowly continue to the deeper end as you become accustomed to the water temperature of your unknown. You don’t have to jump right into the deep end, you just have to enter the pool and keep moving towards it.
“Never fear shadows – it means that there’s light nearby”. – Pesach and Chana Burston
“With love, you set your goals. With fear, you set your boundaries”. – Unknown
“Fear builds walls to bar the light.” – The Baal Shem Tov
Part of Your Power Is In Your Follow Through series
*updated from the original sent 6/23/11
Heart and Soul
The Spinning Rabbi - Heart & Soul 
A great one! Faith is the antidote to fear! J
Fear, the final frontier. There is a lot of fear in our daily lives.
Nice teaching. As someone given to wrestling with anxieties, this very approach has freed me to enjoy life.
Swim from Alcatraz? I started fearfully paddling around Aquatic Park. Eventually, I lept in at the Rock and crossed the Bay. Surf at Bolinas with Men in Grey Suits (sharkies) patrolling below? A few more yards out each time. Now, I go…just because I’ve gone out further each time holding a respect for the big creatures, but trying to find my wave.
I’m sure this incremental approach has meant a lot in places I’m not even aware of.
Rebe, I hope a lot of folks think about your Pool. A gem. Thank you.