Big and Scary

Why you should set one every year ....

Twice a week, I pull on my goggles and head to the pool for a workout with my Masters Swim Club. It’s a good routine—challenging enough to keep me sharp, but familiar. I know the pool, my pace, and when the session will end. 

But then came the curveball. 

Our club was invited to a 3K open-water swim in the Ottawa River. That’s three kilometres of cold, unpredictable water. No black lines at the bottom, no walls to push off. I’ve never done anything like it.  

Naturally, I said yes. 

Why? Because every year, I try to commit to one big, scary challenge.

Previous Big and Scary Adventures

A few years ago, I decided to take singing lessons. Now, let me be clear: I still can’t sing in key to save my life. But I learned a lot about breathing, control, and the sheer joy of pushing myself out of my comfort zone. 

Then there was the time I drove a 55-year-old sports car across Canada—and back. Talk about unpredictable! From mechanical hiccups to surprise encounters, it was a wild ride that tested my patience and problem-solving skills. But I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. 

Each of these challenges pushed me in different ways, and each taught me lessons I wouldn’t have learned otherwise. 

Why Public Commitment Matters

Here’s the key: I didn’t keep these challenges to myself. I told people. The singing lessons? I shared that with friends and family, who kindly endured my off-key renditions. The road trip? I let everyone know I was hitting the road in an antique car rebuilt by an amateur mechanic. 

Now, I’ve told my club, friends, and family and all of you about the Ottawa River swim. And because they know, there’s no backing out. 

Making your challenge public is crucial. It raises the stakes. You’re not just accountable to yourself; now others are watching. They’re rooting for you, maybe even betting on you. That external pressure can be the nudge you need to push through the hard parts. 

Why Year-End is the Perfect Time.   As we wind down the year, it’s natural to reflect on what we’ve done and what’s next. It’s also the perfect time to set your sights on a new challenge. Not a modest resolution, but something bold and a little terrifying—something that will set the tone for the year ahead. 

What’s Your Big, Scary Challenge?   For me, it’s the Ottawa River. But your challenge could be different. Maybe it’s finally taking on that high-profile speaking engagement,  learning to hang glide, opening an export market, or even learning a completely new skill. The key is that it should make you uncomfortable. It should stretch you in ways you didn’t think possible. And most importantly, it should be public. 

Why It’s Wort It.  Here’s what happens when you commit to a big, scary challeng:

• Accountability Spurs Action: Public commitment creates a sense of urgency and responsibility.
• Growth Through Discomfort: Stepping into the unknown forces you to adapt and learn in ways you wouldn’t otherwise.
• Confidence That Compounds: Each time you succeed, no matter how hard it seemed, your belief in your ability to tackle future challenges grows.  

Make This Year Count

So, as the year wraps up, take a moment to think: What’s your big, scary challenge for next year? Pick it, announce it, and start planning. For me, it’s 3K of open water. What will yours be? 

And here’s a challenge – send me a note with your own Big and Scary and I’ll share it here.  

Until next time, let’s finish the year strong.

—Andrew