“I would rather regret the things that I have done than the things that I have not.” ~ Lucille Ball

As I backpacked through Australia by myself, I came across many obstacles and fears. I’d like to share how I chose to handle these situations.

I didn’t want to let the fears prevent me from enjoying my time in Australia, so I decided to take on some of the fears instead of letting them rule me.

Here is one thing I did. I have a fear of heights. I don’t like them. In Cairns, in order to go to a beautiful waterfall, I had to jump from a high rock. All my friends jumped but one. He stayed with me because he knew I was scared. Should I chicken out??? He said he would stay with me. No…It would be a regret if I didn’t go for it. So this was my strategy. I told him to jump and leave me alone. If he stayed, I would be a chicken, but if he jumped then it was between me and me. He jumped and then I really got scared because I put myself on the line. Well…what can I say…I jumped! I made it to the waterfall. All my friends were waiting for me. I appreciated their support. The waterfall was gorgeous! I am the one who took the leap and didn’t give in to the fear. I went for it!

I’m also afraid of needles, but I’ve always wanted a tattoo, so with the encouragement of a couple of friends, I found a great cheap place in Darwin. I decided to tattoo “Faith” as it has special meaning to me.

I can’t believe it, but despite my fear, I did it!

I don’t regret any of the situations that scared me. I’m glad that I faced the fears. I feel it made me that much stronger. A message to everyone...no regrets!

Holly