Showing up can be scary. Especially when we have a little skin in the game. The more we care, the bigger the perceived risk.
Many of our little quirks, foibles and whimsy are survival strategies that we’ve cultivated to protect ourselves from being seen. To be seen invites criticism. For some, to be challenged is to experience a death. Our ego dislikes this
Public speaking is precisely one of those experiences many fear for exactly this reason. Hot sweats, cold shivers and clammy hands come to mind. These sensations are linked to a fear of social acceptance within community and culture.
In certain circumstances, though, it is essential to be seen. Cycling is one of those activities that requires full visibility. My good friend, Lydia Ashman, explores this concept beautifully in this blog post on her new project, Something I learnt.