Man in the Arena
How often do we choose not to pursue something for fear of failure? It’s not only failure, but fear that others will think less of us.
In one of my favorite books by Brene Brown, Daring Greatly, she includes an excerpt from Theodore Roosevelt’s famous speech (Paris, France, April 23rd, 1910) that has been called “The Man in the Arena.” She talks about how much strength there is in the vulnerability to try something new, risking failure or judgement. Take a moment to read the excerpt below and think about what it means to you.
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” - Theodore Roosevelt, 1910
I faced an arena when I changed careers in my 40’s. In leaving a corporate career and starting a counseling practice, I stepped out into the unknown. I risked trying something completely new that aligned with my values, and I risked failing. Family, friends, and my peers all knew that I was taking this risk. The willingness to be vulnerable and risk failure allowed me to try something new and rewarding!
So, what is your arena? Have you stepped out into the unknown and tried something challenging that matters to you? Is it a new job, a class, maybe a relationship, or taking on a leadership role? Maybe it’s having a child or growing deeper in your faith. Whatever it is, allow yourself to make mistakes and learn as you grow.
Have you chosen to avoid your arena for fear of judgement? Is the risk too great? If so, I get it... it’s okay. Maybe it’s not the right time for you. You’re never too old to step into that arena, and if you do, know that I’ll be in the stands supporting you all the way!!
Need support? Check out the Men’s Fellowship and Camping Retreat coming soon to north Texas!
