Sink or Swim

An easy concept to understand for most. Having truth to the statement from learning how swim myself. There are no other options but these two. It seems simple, kick the legs and arms but without rhythm and proper strokes, it gets you nowhere. The motion itself is tiring, but when done improperly is it exhausting. However, it can look effortless for some and come much more naturally or seeming so from an outside perspective.

In even the easiest of environments to swim, a shallow pool that is crystal clean and a bottom insight, it takes time and effort to stay afloat. Master this and move out of your depths to a pond, lake or ocean. The vastness and nature of each have its own difficulties and unique challenges that are presented but the choice is yours. A choice of where to swim, maybe a challenge is sought after or easiest road is best. Nobody knows except you. Sure, staying the pool is the easiest path but only an eight by ten-foot radius is able to be explored. A path best ventured is certainly decided by adventurer and not by me. Not by the choices of others, as they do not know what capabilities are stored in the heart, that is deep within.

Cast thy self into a depth that is overwhelming for your current self but a depth that the future self can handle with ease and elegance. The water flows effortlessly in your favor, not against the tide. Tired might be thought but not a physical state, keep kicking in controlled strokes and you will stay afloat. It always looks easy from the outside looking in but the beginning they did not see. At the start, all tread water at the nose, just barely holding it all together. Then, they rise and it becomes easier with time, patience, practice, effort, consistency and self-efficacy.

Being out of your depth is the worst and best feeling. There is no choice but to not hold back. Having your back against the wall, leaves no other option but to succeed. Succeed or sink to the bottom. Keep clawing to the top for another gasp of fresh air, only to be dragged down, but fight to live another day. Kick with all the might that can be mustered and then… give more, more than you thought. Notice the change in intensity, mindset, physicality and who’s left kicking.

Not many are.

It’s easy to stop. While exhausted, beaten by the waves, cold without doubt and it might seem relaxing to let go. Let the waves take you ashore. Ground is found at the bottom of the ocean or the land you wash up on.

It’s hard to keep going. Nobody told you it would easy, it shouldn’t a thought crossing your mind. Be prepared mentally to fight against the endless waves and challenges that oppose you.

Each is right… knowing when to keep pushing and when to let the flow of life to come to you. Neither is always true.

The when, the where, the whom, the what. Ask these questions to choose the best answer.

The only truth that is always right, is your own choice.

Sink or Swim, the choice has always been yours alone.