Conquering Fears

Phew, what an amazing day on the mountain.

Today I finally conquered my fears of skiing down the top of the mountain. Three years ago, I let my fear of heights scare me out of skiing down the mountain, even though the run was a green and something within my ability level. That day, my fear of falling and failure caused me to stop after about 100 feet of the run and sit in the snow, in tears. My friends who had so kindly invited me up to the top to ski down with them were far ahead and had no clue that I wasn’t behind them. After thirty minutes of crying and freezing my ass off, a snow mobile picked me up and took me down the mountain.

Today, after my final morning lesson, the group asked if I wanted to join them for a run at the top of the mountain. I surprised myself when yes came out of my mouth. I’ve focused on overcoming my fear of ice, gradual declines, and hills the past two days. Today I knew what to expect on the run and how to respond.

The pressure of being with the group actually helped me as I knew that I wanted to look good while they were watching and looking good means having good form. Hearing my husband scream in elation as I passed him on the slope was the best feeling in the world

I am so happy that I pushed myself outside my comfort zone today after my lessons and spending the afternoon on the slopes, conquering greens and easy blues with Margaret, my afternoon ski partner. Skiing with Margaret was a judge free zone since we’re both at a similar ability level. We were able to give each other suggestions and tips while still laughing when we side stepped down the icy patches before finding our rhythm in the powder.

I’ve decided that my favorite time on the slopes is between 3-4pm when the sun is starting to set and casts a warm glow on the snow.