Page 186 - Never Fly Solo

RELEASE BRAKES! | 159
a full life, more power to you! But I’m talking about reaching
new heights in your life and not settling for the status quo.
This is about stepping outside the comfort zone of your cock-
pit and doing what it takes to break the performance barrier
that, ultimately, is constructed out of nothing but your own
invented fears. This is how you take your life and your career
to the next level.

The Opposite Side of Fear Is Growth

The greater the fear, the greater the opportunity for growth.
If you’re scared and anxious about leaving your job, start-
ing a new business, taking that promotion, or moving over-
seas, that is a sign that you are on to something great in your
life. I’m not saying you must take the action that is making
you fearful. But it really is worth taking a close look at,
because behind this fear is opportunity.

Courage Isn’t Fearlessness
Don’t be fearless. For one thing, it’s impossible. Just strive to
be courageous. Acknowledge your fear and use it as a tool to
really explore what it is you want (or don’t want) in life.
Courage inspires action, which leads to performance beyond
your old limits, which results in joy unlike any other.
I will leave you with one final story that epitomizes my
release from fear and a change in the trajectory of my life.

FLYING SOLO

My presolo ride was terrible. As we taxied the Cessna T-41
preliminary trainer back to the flight line, all I could think
about was how badly I had blown it. It was my first chance