07/07/2025
That Fear Might Just Be a Mirage
Recently, I started working out at a new gym.
Last Friday, my gym buddy told me there’s a group aerobics and yoga class that happens early on Saturdays and encouraged me to give it a try.
I laughed and told her, “Group classes aren’t really my thing"
But the truth? It’s not just that I don’t like them.
They intimate me.
Anyway, we got to the gym on Saturday and, surprise..there was a dance session right before the general aerobics/yoga class.
I almost froze there. Lol..
As she nudged me to join in, my usual reflex kicked in.
I looked at her and said, “I don’t know how to dance. I can't dance to save my life and I probably won’t keep up.”
But then I paused for a moment and asked myself, why am I always backing out of group classes?
And here’s what I realized:
1. I was afraid people would laugh at me if I didn’t get the steps right.
2. I was scared I couldn’t keep up with the pace and would end up quitting halfway, and feel ashamed.
So, where did those fears come from?
They came from my experience at my former gym. I tried dance classes and group classes a few times&I couldn’t keep up. So, I stopped showing up.
I talked myself into believing that I couldn't dance no matter how I tried.
Plus, one of my gym buddies back then, who had been working out way before I even started, used to call me “lazy” for not matching her pace or completing a group class. So, I unconsciously tried to avoid being called "lazy" by avoiding group classes.
To be fair, it was her own way of encouraging me, but I didn't realise early enough that it made me feel inadequate until that Saturday morning.
Once I realized the sources of my fears, it became easier to face them.
Suddenly, the idea of disappointing myself, and the person I’m accountable to on this journey felt worse than any fear I was feeling in that moment.
And here’s the funny thing…
I had been searching for a gym nearby that had a dance instructor for so long and couldn’t find any.
Then, by some miracle, I joined a gym that actually has one and I was about to miss the opportunity? No way!
So, I told myself that, “Even if someone laughs at me, that’s okay.” Because if I stay consistent, six months from now, no one will be laughing.
They will be admiring how far I have come, and maybe even asking me for tips.
So I joined the class.
Yes, I stepped out a few times.
Yes, I laughed at myself now and then.
But I stayed. I finished the class.
And honestly? I am proud I did.
Now? I’m looking forward to the next one.
Today, I challenge you:
What’s that thing you keep avoiding?
What’s holding you back from something that could actually improve your life?
Be real with yourself.
No sugarcoating. No shame. Just honesty.
A lot of the time, the things we fear are just a mirage.
Start facing them, one step at a time.
Cheers to a better, stronger, freer you. 💪✨
Remember: PoiseHR is here to support you.
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