shariew

I have taken so many risks in my life and I regret none of them. Even those that failed, I learned something from them, but for this post I will give you my top 5 from oldest to newest

Learning To Dance

I was put into dance at the age of 2 to help correct being born pigeon toed. I learned ballet, tap, jazz, Russian, and Tahitian. It was a wonderful way to learn to express myself to music and to this day it is one of my favorite forms of exercise.

Learning to Swim

Move to Hawaii and guess what you will learn to swim. It took me across Europe when we moved there as part of a swim team, and even allowed me access to the Munich Olympic pool once a year for championship races. I saw Italy, and all of Germany while swimming my demons away. Love the sport.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Imagine arriving for college on a campus you have never seen, Know no one, and know nothing about. That is what I did. I traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to do it too. Left my parents in Germany, walked into Freshman orientation and walked out with friends I have to this day and an education that has led to where I am today.

Marrying after knowing someone Six Weeks

Yep. Did that. 31 years and three kids later, I can’t regret it. When you know you know. Has it been easy. No. Has it been fun? At times. Has it been worth it? Yes.

Going back to school in my 40’s AND 50’s

Best decision (next to having kids) I ever made. Changed my career, changed my life and I am still in school now for certifications that will change my life and career again. Was it a risk absolutely. Is it worth it? Absolutely!

Without risk there is no reward. I learned to dance, I learned to swim, I learned to embrace uncertainty, I learned to love, I learned to love learning. All risks I have taken have changed my life for the better. Have there been downsides, drama, and failures. Of course, but had I never tried, I would not be the person I am today with the friendships, children, husband, career, and opportunities I do now. So sometimes taking a walk on the wild side is just what the doctor ordered.