As a kid, summer meant pool parties, backyard fun, and, if you were lucky, a diving board…
I still remember the first time I stood at the edge of that bouncy board, watching my friends leap off, twisting and cannonballing into the deep end.
They made it look so easy-like flying. But for me? It was terrifying.
My mind raced: “What if hitting the water hurts?” “What if I sink to the bottom and can’t get back up?”
So I just stood there, watching, studying how everyone else did it. For what felt like an hour, my feet were glued to the board as other kids jumped in front of me to take their 100th or 200th plunges.
Eventually, though, I found enough courage to take that first leap. And you know what? None of those fears came true…
It was GREAT – and from that first jump – you couldn’t keep me off of the diving board!
I ended up jumping until my lips turned blue and my parents had to drag me home, long after the party had ended.
Why We Tell Ourselves Limiting Stories
Looking back, that day taught me something I’ve seen play out again and again – not just at the pool, but in business, relationships, and life.
We all tell ourselves stories about why we can’t do something.
It’s easier to stay on the sidelines than to risk failing in front of people we care about. Fear loves to spin a tale: “You’ll mess up. You’ll get hurt. You’re not ready.”
But here’s the truth: most of those stories are just that-stories. They aren’t reality.
They’re just the soundtrack of our worries, and they rarely come true.
How to Turn a Fear Story Into a Hero Story
So, how do we rewrite the script? How do we turn those fear stories into hero stories?
There’s a simple framework from the book Soundtracks that I love…
When a negative thought pops up, ask yourself these three questions:
- Is it true?
Most of the time, our fears are wild guesses about what could go wrong – not facts. - Is it helpful?
Even if a worry is true, does it actually help you move forward? Or is it just cluttering your mind? - Is it kind?
If your inner voice isn’t being kind, it’s probably not serving you – or anyone else – well.
This Week, I Dare You
Here’s my challenge for you (and for myself):
Find a “diving board” moment in your life – something you’ve been avoiding because of the story you’re telling yourself. Pause. Ask: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it kind?
Then, take a small leap. You might just find yourself having so much fun, you won’t want to stop.
And remember, your hero story – the one where you face your fears and take the leap – might just be the inspiration someone else needs to do the same.
FAQ: The Stories We Tell Ourselves
Why do our minds default to fear stories?
It’s human nature – our brains are wired to protect us from risk. But most fears are just stories, not reality.
How can I start changing my inner narrative?
Notice the story, question it with “Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it kind?” and then try a small action that challenges the fear.
What if I fail after taking the leap?
Failure is part of growth. Every leap – successful or not – teaches you something and helps you rewrite your story for next time.
Ready to Rewrite Your Story?
At Captivation Agency, we believe the most powerful stories aren’t just the ones we tell the world – they’re the ones we tell ourselves.
If you’re ready to turn fear into action and create a narrative that inspires others, let’s connect.
Contact us today to start your next chapter.
