I was put into swimming classes at quite a young age, and to this day, I swim to unwind - it's almost meditative. Yet, the greatest lesson I've learnt from swimming isn't about technique but about the moments when it's important to stop overthinking and simply take the plunge, like a fool.
I remember being at the pools, there was an external diving pool, and it was winter. My swimming instructor encouraged me to dive off the board. I'm not sure if it was the fear of the cold water shocking my body or the unnerving sight of the diving pool's seemingly bottomless depths - but I hesitated, feeling a flicker of fear. Slowly, I walked to the edge of the board, my toes curling over the end. My mind, unwilling to commit, conjured excuse after excuse as I tucked my hair behind my ears, stalling for time.
I stared at the water for what felt like an eternity. While people often say patience is a virtue, in that moment, it was my impatience that urged me forward - telling me to stop thinking and simply find out - its tone almost edged with frustration. Curiosity became my other favourite motivator. Ignoring the chatter of my racing mind, I jumped.
The water was freezing, but the pride in knowing I could - and did - banished the cold almost instantly. I emerged with a giant grin, victorious over my hesitation.
Since then, whenever I feel that same familiar hesitation, I remind myself of that day. With discernment, I jump. After all, there's no point in endlessly swinging your arms - one day, there may not even be a pool.