You never know where your next important life lesson might come from.
On a recent trip through SeaTac airport, I saw something that struck me differently this time. A man dashed towards a closing train door, aiming to board before it shut. He narrowly missed, bumping squarely into the glass. The incident, slightly comical, sparked laughter among some passengers.
Reflecting on this, I realized I had never been that person hurrying to catch a train or bus. I’ve always opted to wait calmly for the next one, avoiding potential embarrassment or harm.
This observation led me to ponder my cautious nature. Why had I chosen to live safely within the bounds of predictability and comfort, rather than risking the occasional stumble or fall? It dawned on me how my preference for security had often limited my willingness to take chances.
This insight was eye-opening.
Venturing for the seemingly unreachable often leaves us vulnerable to setbacks and failures. The fear of missing a target or facing rejection is intense. Yet, the prospect of succeeding can be just as thrilling. By not taking steps forward, we miss the chance to venture into new experiences and tap into our true potential.
This theme is echoed in Daniel Pink’s book, “The Power of Regret,” which argues that our most significant regrets typically stem from actions not taken. Pink’s research suggests that we often lament missed opportunities more than the attempts we make, regardless of their outcomes.
Think about the difference in these reflections:
“If only I had tried.”
“At least I tried.”
Clearly, the latter statement offers a more comforting solace.
While I might not rush to catch a train on my next visit to the airport, this experience has taught me the importance of embracing risk in everyday decisions. Faced with the option of safety or the uncertainty of the new, I aspire to channel the spirit of the man who dared to run for the train. Knowing I seized the moment will always outweigh the comfort of never knowing what could have been.